Maria Fernanda Villamizar
Miami
Summary
With 25 years of experience, including 14 years in the advertising media industry, I have led key transformations in the financial management of multinational companies. Experienced in working capital management, reconciliations, internal controls, and process optimization across treasury, accounts receivable (AR), and accounts payable (AP). Proficient in implementing SOX compliance practices and optimizing cash flow with a focus on achieving Cash Neutrality. Recognized for leadership in multidisciplinary teams, financial risk management, and strategic project management in multicultural environments.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Net Working Capital Director
GroupM Worldwide, WPP Group
07.2024 - 12.2024
- Oversaw financial operations across Working Capital areas, including reconciliation, stabilization, and balance sheet optimization
- Supervised internal control processes to ensure SOX compliance and financial sustainability in assigned markets
- Collaborated with regional teams to implement reconciliation, invoicing, and vendor payment strategies for both global and local clients
- Adopted and optimized best practices in client, vendor, and internal processes to meet corporate standards in service, risk management, and financial efficiency
- Designed and implemented risk mitigation strategies addressing credit exposure and insurance coverage
- Directed a 30-person team, ensuring their professional growth, performance evaluations, and achievement of deliverables
- Monitored operational efficiency and financial KPIs to drive sustainable growth in the cluster
- Significantly reduced overdue balances exceeding 90 days to over 1 year, enhancing financial health
- Increased vendor payment compliance to 80%, strengthening strategic relationships
- Effectively reconciled and cleared pending bank transactions, optimizing cash flow management
- Established functional segregation across all NWC areas
- Improved NWC KPIs by 20% compared to 2023, positioning the cluster as a regional benchmark in transformation and operational efficiency
Net Working Capital Director
GroupM Worldwide, WPP Group
10.2021 - 07.2024
- Directed comprehensive financial operations, including reconciliation, stabilization, and balance sheet alignment
- Led internal control initiatives to ensure SOX compliance and financial integrity
- Partnered with regional teams to develop and implement scalable and efficient reconciliation, invoicing, and payment processes
- Transformed financial operations to achieve sustainable balances and improved cash flow control
- Established scalable processes, strengthening relationships with strategic clients and vendors
- Built a high-performing team focused on meeting and exceeding regional financial objectives
Finance Accounting Manager
GroupM Worldwide, WPP Group
04.2018 - 10.2021
- Managed financial operations, including reconciliations and in-depth balance sheet analysis
- Oversaw monthly financial reporting and ensured compliance with SOX controls
- Led month-end closing processes and internal audits to maintain financial transparency
Revenue and Finance Analyst
Mediabrands IPG Group
01.2016 - 04.2018
- Prepared monthly financial reports and revenue recognition analyses
- Conducted reconciliations and settlements of AVBs, ensuring accuracy in financial forecasts
- Provided operational and financial support to media, sales, and business teams through detailed forecasts, reporting, and preparation of key financial statements (balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow)
Education
Bachelor’s - Business Administration
Sergio Arboleda University
01.1993
Skills
- Working Capital Management
- Financial Risk Management
- Process Optimization and Internal Controls
- Accounts Reconciliation and Cash Flow Strategies
- SOX Compliance Implementation
- Leadership of Multidisciplinary Teams
- Financial Forecasting and Analysis
Languages
Spanish
English
Additionalinformation
Available for travel, Kcenia Lao-Gaina, MBA, CPA, CFO Senior VP at GSD&M, +1 (305) 434-6360, Mirtha Maddox, People Experience at Sony Music Latin, US, +1 (786) 261-6871, Pablo Ortiz, CFO North Cone Cluster at GroupM Worldwide, +1 (786) 779-4304, Carolina Hernandez, Financial Controller North Cone Cluster at GroupM Worldwide, +1 (786) 784-9832
Timeline
Net Working Capital Director
GroupM Worldwide, WPP Group
07.2024 - 12.2024
Net Working Capital Director
GroupM Worldwide, WPP Group
10.2021 - 07.2024
Finance Accounting Manager
GroupM Worldwide, WPP Group
04.2018 - 10.2021
Revenue and Finance Analyst
Mediabrands IPG Group
01.2016 - 04.2018
Bachelor’s - Business Administration
Sergio Arboleda University
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