Name: Jessica Samantha "JessSam" LiuLee
Age: 26 31
Education: Master's in Accounting from University of North Carolina MBA from UCLA Anderson School of Management, B.S. in Finance Supply Chain Management from Pennsylvania Arizona State University
Professional Background:
2-4 7+ years of experience in public accounting, with a focus on audit and assurance servicesprocurement and sourcing, focusing on technology and software vendors.
Focus areas: Executing audit procedures, preparing workpapers, conducting fieldwork, and testing internal controlsVendor selection and evaluation, contract negotiation, cost optimization, supplier relationship management, and procurement process improvement.
Previous roles: Audit Associate Procurement Specialist at a technology company, Sourcing Analyst at a Big Four accounting consulting firm, Staff Accountant Buyer at a regional accounting firmretail organization.
Special certifications or skills: CPA candidate (actively pursuing certification), proficient in audit software and data analysis tools.
Industry: Accounting and Audit
Responsibilities:
Execute audit procedures under the supervision of Audit Managers and Seniors.
Prepare clear and concise audit workpapers that document the work performed and support audit conclusions.
Conduct fieldwork at client sites, including interviewing client personnel, testing internal controls, and reviewing financial records.
Identify and communicate potential audit issues and control deficiencies to supervisors.
Contribute to the preparation of audit reports and other deliverables.
Goals:
Develop strong audit skills and knowledge through hands-on experience and continuous learning.
Gain exposure to a variety of industries and audit areas.
Build strong relationships with colleagues and clients.
Progress in their career and achieve professional certifications (e.g., CPA).
Challenges:
Balancing multiple audit assignments with tight deadlines.
Adapting to different client environments and industries.
Dealing with complex accounting and audit concepts.
Communicating effectively with clients and senior team members.
Motivations:
Gaining valuable experience in the audit profession and building a foundation for a successful career.
Learning from experienced colleagues and mentors.
Contributing to the team's success and delivering high-quality client audit services.
Making a positive impact on the accuracy and reliability of financial reportingCertified Professional in Supply Management (CPSM), Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
Industry: Varies depending on the organization's focus
Responsibilities:
Identify potential vendors and suppliers that can meet the organization's needs for goods and services.
Conduct thorough research and due diligence on potential vendors, including financial stability, reputation, and track record.
Lead the RFP (Request for Proposal) process, evaluating vendor proposals and negotiating contracts.
Manage vendor onboarding and ensure smooth integration with the organization's systems and processes.
Monitor vendor performance and compliance with contractual obligations.
Goals:
Identify and select the best vendors that offer the most value for the organization.
Negotiate favorable contract terms and pricing that optimize cost savings.
Build strong relationships with vendors based on trust and mutual respect.
Streamline the procurement process and improve efficiency.
Contribute to the organization's overall risk management and compliance efforts by ensuring that vendors meet all necessary requirements.
Challenges:
Balancing the need for cost savings with the need for quality and reliability.
Managing multiple vendor relationships and ensuring timely delivery of goods and services.
Navigating complex procurement processes and regulations.
Keeping up with the latest trends and technologies in procurement and supply chain management.
Motivations:
Finding the best deals and maximizing value for the organization.
Build strong relationships with vendors and become a trusted advisor.
Contributing to the organization's success by ensuring a reliable and efficient supply chain.
Developing a successful career in procurement and supply chain management.
Tech-Savviness:
Proficient in using audit software (e.g., ACL, IDEA), Microsoft Office suite, and data analysis tools.
Adaptable to new technologies and eager to learn new tools and techniques.
Open to using technology to improve audit efficiency and effectiveness.
e-procurement tools, vendor management platforms, and contract management systems.
Comfortable with data analysis and using it to inform procurement decisions.
Open to exploring new technologies, such as AI and machine learning, to optimize procurement processes.
Behavioral Traits:
Detail-oriented and organized, with a focus on accuracy and quality.
Eager to learn and willing to take on new challenges.
Team player and collaborative, able to work effectively with colleagues and clients.
Strong work ethic and commitment to meeting deadlines.
Inquisitive, seeking to understand the underlying reasons behind financial transactions and eventsstrong analytical and negotiation skills.
Results-oriented and focused on achieving cost savings and operational efficiency.
Excellent communicator and collaborator, able to build rapport with vendors and internal stakeholders.
Proactive and adaptable, able to respond quickly to changing business needs and market conditions.
Sources of Information:
Professional auditing standards and guidelines Industry publications and reports on procurement and supply chain management (e.g., PCAOB, AICPASupply Chain Dive, Supply Chain Quarterly).
Internal training materials and resources provided by the firm.
Mentorship and guidance from senior colleagues.
Online resources and forums for audit professionalsOnline resources and forums for procurement professionals.
Networking with other procurement specialists and attending industry events.
Vendor websites and marketing materials.
Quote:
"I'm excited about the opportunity to learn and grow in the audit profession. By working on diverse engagements and collaborating with experienced colleagues, I can develop the skills and knowledge needed to make a meaningful contribution to the fieldProcurement is more than just buying things; it's about strategically sourcing the right goods and services from suppliers to drive business success. By leveraging my expertise and building strong relationships, I can help the organization achieve its goals and create a competitive advantage."