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Caroline Coombs

@carolinecoombs

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Results-driven FCCA-qualified accountant with expertise in process improvement.

United Kingdom

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What I'm looking for

I am looking for a role that values process improvement and compliance, offering opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.

I am a results-driven, FCCA-qualified accountant with significant experience in managing and leading end-to-end risk-based internal and external financial, operational, compliance, and forensic audits and reviews. My expertise lies in implementing internal control frameworks (COSO) and driving process improvements across diverse, global environments. I partner with stakeholders to deliver practical solutions that enhance efficiency and compliance.

Throughout my career, I have demonstrated a strong attention to detail and a proven ability to transform and streamline complex processes. My achievements include successful management of external audits with zero management letter points, and the design and implementation of effective internal controls that meet SOX and regulatory requirements. I am passionate about identifying process inefficiencies and ensuring compliance with best practice standards.

Experience

Work history, roles, and key accomplishments

Current

Financial Process Assurance Manager

Current

Serco Plc

Jan 2021 - Present (4 years 4 months)

Performed financial and operational internal audit reviews, identifying control weaknesses and recommending remediation. Partnered with Global Process Owners to deliver best practice internal controls and processes. Designed and implemented the new GRC application Salesforce Riskonnect and associated reporting.

Internal Audit Financial Audit Operational Audits Remediation Processing Internal Controls Process Improvement Process Flow Documents GRC P2P Treasury Training

Accounts & Audit Manager

Haines Watts

Jan 2019 - Dec 2020 (1 year 11 months)

Planned and managed external statutory audits across various industries. Produced year-end statutory financial statements compliant with accounting standards. Trained and developed audit staff.

Externe Audits Financial Statements Accounting Standards Staff Training Audit Management

Vet Group Internal Controls Manager

Pets At Home Plc (Vet Group Ltd)

Jan 2016 - Dec 2018 (2 years 11 months)

Implemented the COSO Financial Framework, designed new internal controls and financial policies, and validated and improved existing controls and policies. Documented processes and controls using Visio. Designed and executed a risk-based internal audit strategy and testing programme.

COSO Internal Controls Visio Risk Based Audit Strategy

North West Europe Accounting Manager

Siemens Plc

Jan 2011 - Dec 2016 (5 years 11 months)

Managed month end close and financial reporting for Siemens Norway & Poland. Managed a team of accountants and liaised with divisional finance teams. Conducted governance reviews and implemented process improvements.

Month End Close Financial Reporting Team Management Process Improvement IFRS SOX Change Management Loss Prevention SOX Controls Internal Audit

Audit Manager

RSM UK (Baker Tilly)

Jan 2006 - Dec 2011 (5 years 11 months)

Planned and led external audits in a variety of sectors. Prepared statutory financial statements in accordance with accounting standards. Performed internal control reviews and forensic audits.

Internal Audit Financial Statements IFRS Internal Controls Fraud Investigation