Expertise

  • Budget Planning
  • Forecasting
  • cash flow
  • cost optimization
  • ERP
  • ERP & finance integration
  • Oracle
  • Quickbooks
  • Quickbooks Accounting
  • internal controls
  • efficiency improvements
  • Internal/external audits
  • Financial Governance
  • Reporting
  • Managing finance teams
  • Training & Development
  • restructuring for efficiency
  • Fraud prevention
  • Accountability
  • financial risk mitigation
  • Vendor negotiations
  • procurement compliance
  • financial transparency

Summary

Finance & Operations Executive


With over 20 years of international experience, I am a seasoned finance and operations leader specializing in financial strategy, grant management, and regulatory compliance. I have successfully managed multi-million-dollar budgets ($4M–$9M annually), implemented cost-saving initiatives, and ensured 100% compliance with USAID, USDA, OSCE, and other donor regulations.

I have played a pivotal role in financial process optimization, ERP system implementation, and risk mitigation, leading teams across multiple regions. My expertise includes internal audits, stakeholder engagement, procurement negotiations, and cross-functional team leadership. I have a proven track record of strengthening financial governance, improving operational efficiency, and delivering strategic financial solutions for complex international projects.

A results-driven leader, I am committed to driving financial excellence, transparency, and innovation in global organizations.


Experience

  • United States Forest Service International Programs

    Operations and Finance Director
    100+ Employees 2024 - Current

    • Led the implementation of ERP and internal financial tracking systems.
    • Optimized budget planning and reduced operational costs.
    • Oversaw audit processes, ensuring full regulatory compliance.
    • Managed financial risk assessments to improve decision-making and funding allocation.
    • Supervised cross-functional teams to enhance operational efficiency and policy adherence.

  • Winrock International (Solomon Islands)

    Finance Director
    21 - 100 Employees 2023 - 2025

    • Restructured and optimized the financial department, resolving non-compliance issues and aligning operations with USAID standards.
    • Led the project through a successful external audit, receiving a positive compliance evaluation.
    • Trained and restructured the finance team, improving workflow efficiency.
    • Built an effective financial system, ensuring transparency and strong internal controls.
    • Directed cash flow management, maintaining liquidity and financial sustainability.
    • Negotiated vendor contracts, securing cost-effective agreements for program operations.

  • Winrock International (Malawi)

    Finance Consultant
    21 - 100 Employees 2024 - 2024

    • Conducted a comprehensive analysis of the project's financial management structure.
    • Identified areas for improvement in budget analysis and optimized financial performance.
    • Developed an internal financial forecasting tool to assess risks of overspending or underspending.
    • Evaluated financial controls and provided recommendations for strengthening internal processes.
    • Assisted in creating a structured budget data analysis schedule for efficient reporting.
    • Advised on improving collaboration between program and finance teams for better budget planning.
    • Provided training on financial best practices, budget tracking, and expenditure management.

  • Winrock International (Tajikistan)

    Finance Director
    21 - 100 Employees 2018 - 2023

    • Managed $4M annual project budgets, achieving 100% compliance with USAID policies.
    • Reduced financial discrepancies through internal control improvements.
    • Led a team of 10+ finance professionals, enhancing financial reporting accuracy.
    • Oversaw grants and subawards management, ensuring transparency and compliance.
    • Established internal audit processes, mitigating financial risks and fraud exposure.
    • Spearheaded cost-saving initiatives, cutting unnecessary expenses while improving efficiency.


Email Laili

  Report

People are also looking for: