MUSTAFA AJAMI
linkedin profile majami@jmail.com

 

Professional Profile
Distinctive career in general and financial management, including the direction and streamlining of corporate financial operations with full responsibility for financial reporting and cost reduction. A progressive career within diverse business atmospheres including manufacturing, distribution and entrepreneurial business start-up. Broad based experience in business restructuring, strategic planning, and cost containment.

Recognized for ability to coach and develop staff. An effective problem-solver and decision-maker.
A self-directed and motivated individual with the capability to consistently achieve objectives.
Computer experience includes Microsoft Access, Excel, Word, Outlook, Explorer, ACT!, Visual Manufacturing, Crystal Report Writer, Windows NT, 95 and 98, DOS, Unix, and IBM SYSTEM36.

Areas of Expertise
Financial Planning
Bank Reconciliation
Financial Analysis
Financial Analysis
Tax Reporting
Policy Formulation and Implementation

Experience
Ramco International Corp., New York, NY
CFO / COO (1995-present)
Direct day-to-day financial operations for this $15 million manufacturer and distributor specializing in security and safety equipment for the retail industry. Manage the direct activities of five direct and 30 indirect reports ensuring the proper coordination and preparation of financial statements, monthly and year-end audits, and six-month reviews.

Maintain banking relationships and prepare yearly financial projections as required by financial institutions.
Administer all policy development, sales, payroll and corporate tax reporting.
Manage and review insurance policies to ensure proper coverage and maintain costs.
Served as Corporate Secretary on the Board of Protex International Corp.
Oversee Quality Assurance to maintain highest industry standards.
Increased sales by 20% and enhanced tracking of production and inventory allowing for pro-active planning and superior levels of customer service by implementing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software.
Reduced workers compensation costs by 40 to 50% per year by working with the firm’s insurance company to implement safety programs.
Acquired key patents and customers that helped fuel continued growth by completing the third successful takeover of a competitor.
Directly handled acquisition negotiations, due diligence and transition allowing for the successful closing of operations in one month of acquisition.
Increased employee morale and retention by implementing a 401(k) plan.
Co-wrote five-year business plan with other members of the management team.
Streamlined financial reporting and Help Desk operations by starting an MIS-Computer Administration Department, using a Windows NT network.
Successfully handled IRS audits resulting in no discrepancies or required changes.
Aided in the establishment of company’s presence in over a dozen countries.
Handle all legal issues including product liability, patents, trademarks, employment, and lawsuits.

CONTROLLER (1987-1995)
Prepared monthly financial statements and year-end audits; and managed accounts receivable / payable and payroll, purchasing, taxes, and billing.

Played a key roll in the takeover of first competitor, contributing to negotiations and due diligence.
Increased sales by 100% during the redirection of manufacturing operations in Texas after the first acquisition.
Reduced costs on several products by approximately 13% by working with the engineering department for more effective ways to produce products while increasing margins.
Decreased insurance costs by more than 50% by researching insurance policies.
Automated order tracking, Accounts Receivables and Accounts Payables.
Oversaw operations transition to manufacturing and consolidated several facilities into one location, which reduced overhead costs and increased productivity.
Created the floor plans for the new facility in the layout of both the office and factory.
Researched NFTA rules and qualified our products as exempt.
Set-up a medical reimbursement plan (Section 125).
Built Accounting Department from the ground up.
Successfully defended a patent infringement suit.

White Metal Rolling and Stamping Corp., Smithtown, NJ
CONTROLLER (1985-1987)
Diverse responsibilities included the financial and office management of this manufacturer and wholesaler of ladders with annual revenues of $12 million.

Managed day-to-day operations of five employees in the preparation of Accounts Receivables / Payables and billing.
Developed monthly financial reports and conducted year-end audits.
Conducted research on computer platforms and software to tie three remote sites together allowing for better tracking of orders as well as receivables and payables and a better general ledger system.
Increased company sales volume by 5 to 10% by assisting in the establishment of a separate Came-Lead division.
Reduced firm’s debt in half and set the stage for large profit to the new owners.

Landau, Levinson and Co., Massapequa, NY
SENIOR ACCOUNTANT (1981-1985)
Responsible for client write-ups as well as payroll, corporate, sales and personal taxes.

Conducted audits and tax scheduling for varied commercial clients.
Maintain client relationships and oversaw the work of two other associates.

Education
Dowling College, Oakdale, NY
B.A. in Accounting (1982)

GPA 3.75
Graduated Magna Cum Laude

Qualifications
New York State Certified Public Accountant