VDL Financial Accounting and Reporting Analyst – Initial Interview

Candidate Name:

Responses to these questions are due to slkenned@illinois.edu by 5pm on Tuesday, February 6, 2024.

1. Tell us about yourself and your work experiences that make you well suited for this position.

I have over 5 years of experience as a finance and business analyst. I have expertise in financial analysis,
reporting, budgeting, forecasting, process improvement, and using data analytics to drive business
insights. My background includes developing financial tracking systems, conducting valuations, assessing
business processes for optimization, formulating data-driven strategies, and partnering with operations
teams. I am skilled in using Excel, SQL, Power BI and other technologies for analysis. This position aligns
well with my skills and experiences.

2. Describe your experience with Excel and work you have done that was made easier with Excel or
another similar program.

I am proficient in Microsoft Excel, utilizing advanced techniques such as VBA, pivot tables, power pivots,
and array functions. In my role at Freshworks, I used these skills to analyze and visualize large datasets,
resulting in improved data accuracy and efficiency. At Nascent Technologies, I streamlined forecasting
processes, reducing time by 20% and increasing accuracy by 15%, primarily through leveraging Excel
functionalities.

3. Describe a time that you improved the efficiency of a process. In addition, how do you go about
learning a process that is not well documented and how do you develop recommendations for
improvement?

At Freshworks, I developed and implemented financial analysis systems and procedures that increased
data accuracy by 20% and improved compliance. To learn undocumented processes, I conduct
stakeholder interviews, analyze existing data flows, map process steps, look for bottlenecks, and identify
automation opportunities. I engage stakeholders when formulating recommendations to ensure buy-in.

4. How would you describe your communication style? What is your preferred approach for explaining
financial information to upper management and stakeholders?

I communicate clearly and concisely, tailoring my message to the audience's level of financial
understanding. Whether presenting to upper management or stakeholders I focus on simplifying
complex information to convey key insights, trends and impacts. I use visual aids and data visualization
tools, such as Power BI, to enhance comprehension and facilitate informed decision-making.

5. Based upon the job description, what are the main areas of focus you feel you need to put the most
emphasis on in the first 90 days in the position?
In the first 90 days, my main focus would be on mastering the budget and account management
responsibilities outlined in the job description. This includes overseeing all Veterinary Diagnostic
Laboratory assets and funds, ensuring compliance with university regulations, and developing and
implementing financial management policies. Additionally, I would prioritize understanding the financial
reporting processes, analyzing variances, and collaborating with the VDL Director on state budget
projections. I will also emphasize building connections with stakeholders to understand their needs.

6. How do you manage competing demands on your time? Describe your organizational style and how
you prioritize tasks in a fast‐paced, high‐demand environment.

I utilize project management principles to juggle priorities, including creating detailed task lists,
estimating time requirements for completion, building schedule contingency and identifying
dependencies across projects. I regularly reassess priorities when new needs emerge. My organizational
style focuses on clear communication with stakeholders when adjusting timelines.

In a fast-paced environment, I rely on my experience in project management and the use of tools like
JIRA to track and manage tasks. I ensure open communication with stakeholders to set realistic
expectations and adjust priorities as needed.

7. This position will have the flexibility to work a hybrid schedule of up to two days per week remote
after an initial training period entirely in the office. Does this align with your expectations?

Yes, hybrid schedule aligns well with my expectations.

8. What are your salary expectations?

My priority is finding the right opportunity to utilize my skills and experiences. I am flexible on
compensation. I am open to discussing salary based on the overall compensation package. My salary
expectations are in the range of $75,000 to $95,000 annually.