Rebecca Forrest
Henrico, VA
Summary
I bring progressive financial experience and a track record of managing complex responsibilities that translate data into insights, streamline operations, and support team success. Beyond my core role, I actively lead initiatives that foster collaboration, inclusion, and community -reflecting my commitment to an engaged workplace culture. I'm charting a path toward becoming a Controller, where I can amplify impact through strategic visibility, alignment, and cross-functional leadership.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
Work History
Business Analyst
Alfa Laval
01.2023 - Current
- Lead quarterly forecasting cycles submitted to global leadership
- Orchestrate enterprise-wide $50M budget development across 60+ departments, collaborating with 20-30 managers
- Deliver executive-ready budget presentations and monthly variance reports that enhance visibility and guide action
- Spearhead financial onboarding and coaching for new managers, embedding fiscal accountability from day one
- Maintain dashboards and provide ad hoc analyses to support initiatives, planning, and decision-making
- Key contributor to the implementation of a forecasting analytics tool, replacing fragmented Excel-based procedures with a centralized, scalable platform
- Launched and continue to lead an ongoing Lunch & Learn series designed to deepen financial fluency and connection to core business drivers
- Optimized core responsibilities to unlock capacity, expanding financial operations engagement to divisions previously outside the scope of this role
Management Reporting Analyst
Alfa Laval
12.2021 - 12.2022
- Produced financial reports for AL Inc US and affiliated entities, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely delivery to stakeholders
- Managed IFRS16 lease accounting, supported external audits, and executed close-cycle journal entries
- Analyzed accounts monthly and resolved discrepancies to maintain data integrity
- Partnered on RPA initiatives to identify, design, and implement automation improvements
Senior Accountant
Hanover County Department of Public Utilities
11.2016 - 12.2021
- Oversaw a $40M capital budget with strategic funding oversight
- Led system configuration and end-user training for a new Customer Information System, including SOP development and post-launch support
- Maintained dashboards and performed recurring financial analysis, reconciliations, journal entries, and asset management activities
- Played a key role in CARES Act disbursement for 20,000 customers
- Served as a mentor for new finance hires
- Supported cross-functional efficiency through daily operational partnership with Customer Service.
Senior Associate
Compass CPAs of Virginia
07.2014 - 10.2016
- Directed full-cycle accounting for select clients including reconciliations, journal entries, and financial statement preparation
- Managed complex estate inventories, tax filings, and cash flow reporting with a client-focused lens
- Stepped into practice oversight during leadership absences, maintaining continuity and professionalism
- Launched workplace well-being program to elevate engagement and firm culture.
Tax Associate
RSM US LLP
10.2012 - 07.2014
- Filed tax returns across business, individual, fiduciary, and payroll segments - ensuring compliance proactive planning for client obligations
- Balanced full-time coursework with a demanding internship schedule
Education
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, VA05-2012
University of Vermont
Burlington, VT12-2010
Skills
- Strategic Financial Planning and Analysis
- Systems Implementation and Optimization
- Stakeholder Engagement & Cross Functional Collaboration
- Financial Reporting and Compliance
- Culture Building and Change Leadership
Timeline
Business Analyst
Alfa Laval
01.2023 - Current
Management Reporting Analyst
Alfa Laval
12.2021 - 12.2022
Senior Accountant
Hanover County Department of Public Utilities
11.2016 - 12.2021
Senior Associate
Compass CPAs of Virginia
07.2014 - 10.2016
Tax Associate
RSM US LLP
10.2012 - 07.2014
Virginia Commonwealth University
University of Vermont
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