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Chiho Lai
Corporate Controller at McHale + Associates Inc.
Professional Background
Chiho Lai is a seasoned Corporate Controller in the Architecture and Engineering (A/E) industry, specializing in Mechanical and Energy Engineering. With an impressive career trajectory at McHale and Associates, Inc., Chiho has honed her skills in multiple roles—from Accountant II to Accounting Supervisor, and ultimately to Accounting Manager before being promoted to Corporate Controller. This progressive advancement not only highlights her expertise but also her commitment to excellence and leadership within the organization.
In her role as Corporate Controller, Chiho is responsible for overseeing financial operations, ensuring compliance with 50 state regulations, and implementing strategic project controls. Her proficiency in Deltek Vision and Job Cost Accounting has played a crucial role in streamlining financial processes, enhancing project profitability, and ensuring that the company's financial objectives are met with precision and efficiency. Chiho's extensive knowledge of SQL further supports her work, as she adeptly manages data to produce insightful reports that guide decision-making and optimize project management across various engineering initiatives.
Education and Achievements
Chiho holds an MBA in Professional Management from the University of North Alabama, where she developed a robust understanding of business principles, management strategies, and financial analysis. This degree has equipped her with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of corporate finance in the fast-evolving engineering sector. Additionally, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Accounting and History from Western Washington University, providing her with a strong foundation in accounting principles and critical thinking skills.
Over the years, Chiho has been an integral part of McHale and Associates, Inc., executing financial strategies that contribute to the company's growth and stability. Her diverse expertise also extends to IT management, where she has implemented innovative solutions to enhance the organizational efficiency and data handling capabilities of the firm. Chiho's dedication to professional development is evident through her continuous pursuit of learning and improving her skill set.
Achievements
Some of Chiho's notable achievements include establishing streamlined accounting procedures that have significantly improved the accuracy of financial reporting and compliance across multiple projects. By integrating advanced technologies and processes within the accounting department, she has carved out efficiencies that have saved time and resources, ultimately impacting the company's bottom line positively. Her ability to maintain an unwavering commitment to integrity and accuracy in financial reporting has made her a trusted resource not only within her organization but also throughout the industry.
Chiho's career, defined by her tenure at McHale and Associates, showcases her adaptability and skill in addressing the financial nuances of the A/E sector. Her passion for her work is evident, as she expertly balances her responsibilities, mentors her team, and drives growth initiatives that benefit the company's stakeholders. Chiho Lai represents a blend of technical expertise in accounting, robust managerial skills, and a dedication to excellence that drives success in the engineering landscape.
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