Jonna Cortez-Balastigue
Al Karama,UAE
Summary
Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with over a decade of progressive experience in auditing, accounting, and financial management across diverse industries. Proven track record in IFRS compliance, tax planning, financial reporting, and business process optimization. Recognized for strategic leadership, analytical thinking, and precision in execution, with a passion for driving accuracy, efficiency, and profitability through sound financial stewardship.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
2015
2015
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work history
Finance Manager
Knightsbridge Group
Dubai, UAE
08.2023 - 11.2025
- Directs end-to-end financial operations, encompassing payments, collections, banking, and regulatory compliance
- Prepares and finalizes tax returns with rigorous checks and submits to the Authority in a timely manner
- Oversees payroll and banking relationships to facilitate compliant transactions
- Leads financial reporting, including financial position statements, profit and loss accounts, and cash flow forecasts
- Develops and monitors annual budgets and forecasts to align financial goals with business objectives
- Coordinates external audits, ensuring timely completion and positive audit outcomes
- Strengthens financial controls by enhancing reporting efficiency through automation
- Reviews and updated internal financial policies, ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Spearheads finance transformation initiatives to support growth and operational excellence
- Leads a team of finance professionals towards achieving shared objectives
Senior Accountant
Saoirse Private Businessmen Services
Dubai, UAE
08.2021 - 07.2023
- Consolidated and analysed financial statements for over 10 entities, ensuring accurate and timely reporting.
- Administered payroll for employees, achieving 100% on-time disbursement and compliance.
- Prepared and managed annual budgets, tracking variances to enhance cost control.
- Filed quarterly VAT returns, ensuring compliance with UAE tax regulations.
- Produced management reports including profit or loss statement, balance sheet, and cash flow, enhancing visibility into business performance.
- Streamlined month-end closings, reducing turnaround time by 25%.
- Supported management with financial analysis and cost-saving recommendations, resulting in reduction of operational expenses.
- Facilitated smooth audits by maintaining organised and accurate records.
- Devised innovative solutions to complex financial problems, enhancing operational efficiency.
Senior Accountant
Tamouh Integrated Business Services LLC
Abu Dhabi, UAE
01.2019 - 08.2021
- Delivered monthly management accounts and financial analyses for various business units
- Monitored project budgets, conducting variance analyses to ensure cost efficiency
- Filed VAT returns with FTA, achieving full compliance and avoiding penalties
- Streamlined closing processes in annual audits, reducing reporting time by 20%
- Championed SAP ERP automation for improved reporting accuracy and workflow efficiency
- Developed accounting policies to enhance internal controls and compliance
- Provided insightful financial advice to senior management for informed decision making
Auditor
Paul & Hassan Chartered Accountants
Dubai, UAE
01.2017 - 12.2018
- Conducted external and internal audits across diverse industries, ensuring IFRS compliance
- Performed substantive testing, risk analysis, and variance reviews to identify misstatements
- Supervised junior auditors, managing fieldwork and ensuring timely reporting
- Prepared and discussed audit findings and adjusting entries with clients to enhance accuracy
- Developed robust audit plans for successful execution of audits.
- Reviewed company financial statements, detected inaccuracies and inconsistencies
- Advised management on tax implications; helped optimise tax obligations
Junior Auditor
Maceda Valencia & Co.
Makati, Philippines
06.2015 - 10.2016
- Conducted financial and internal audits in accordance with IFRS and established procedures
- Prepared financial statements, audit work papers, and adjusting entries for client accounts
- Assisted with due diligence and special audit assignments for client acquisitions
- Provided recommendations by identifying risks associated with business activities
- Identified discrepancies by thorough cross-checking of data
- Analysed financial statements for any signs of fraud or mismanagement
- Handled client queries, providing response within target timeframes
- Ensured compliance and accurate documentation throughout audit cycles
Audit Intern
Commission on Audit (COA)
Oriental Mindoro, Philippines
06.2013 - 09.2013
- Supported licensed auditors during financial audits, investigations, and documentation processes
- Verified vouchers and receipts to ensure accuracy and compliance with government standards
- Assisted in data analysis and audit reporting, aiding final audit conclusions
Education
Bachelor of Science - Accountancy
Divine Word College of Calapan
Oriental Mindoro, PhilippinesSkills
- Accounting Systems: SAP ERP, Odoo, QuickBooks, and other accounting tools
- Software Proficiency: Advanced Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint
- Financial Expertise: IFRS reporting, audit & assurance, budgeting, taxation, risk management
- Core Competencies: Analytical decision-making, critical thinking, process optimization, time management, and leadership
Certification
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
- Professional Regulation Commission, Manila, Philippines – 2015-05
Timeline
Finance Manager
Knightsbridge Group
08.2023 - 11.2025
Senior Accountant
Saoirse Private Businessmen Services
08.2021 - 07.2023
Senior Accountant
Tamouh Integrated Business Services LLC
01.2019 - 08.2021
Auditor
Paul & Hassan Chartered Accountants
01.2017 - 12.2018
Junior Auditor
Maceda Valencia & Co.
06.2015 - 10.2016
Audit Intern
Commission on Audit (COA)
06.2013 - 09.2013
Bachelor of Science - Accountancy
Divine Word College of Calapan