Jessica Reams

About Jessica Reams

Financially strategic. Technologically forward-thinking. Mission-driven.As a senior finance leader with an MBA, CPFC certification, and CPA candidacy, I specialize in strengthening the fiscal integrity and operational efficiency of higher education institutions. With over a decade of progressive responsibility, I have led major initiatives that drive transparency, accountability, and long-term sustainability—including restructuring charts of accounts, launching eCommerce platforms, modernizing procurement with digital PCard systems, and rolling out institution-wide training for ERP self-service tools.I oversee multi-million-dollar budgets, manage compliance and audit readiness, and advise executive leadership. I’m committed to aligning resources with institutional priorities and equipping decision-makers with clear, data-driven insights.My leadership style is collaborative, forward thinking, outcomes-oriented, and grounded in strong internal controls and ethical stewardship and process improvement.

Experience

1. Accounting Controller

   Bethany College

   Apr 2023 — Present

   As Controller at Bethany College, I lead strategic financial operations and system modernization efforts that support institutional growth and compliance. One of my key achievements was implementing an integrated eCommerce storefront through Transact, which streamlined student payments and departmental transactions. I also led the rollout of a digital Procurement Card system, automating reconciliation and strengthening internal financial controls.My work includes a full clean-up of the Accounts Receivable portfolio, including the successful turnover of over 300 delinquent accounts, and overseeing the assignment of Perkins Loans to the Department of Education, ensuring a compliant and timely transition.By collaborating closely with IT, Student Accounts, and academic leadership, I’ve enhanced financial system integration and user adoption—particularly through Self-Service training and improved budget tools. Across all initiatives, my focus remains on driving fiscal responsibility, operational efficiency, and audit readiness.

Education

• PennWest California

  Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.), Entrepreneurship/Entrepreneurial Studies, Strategic Planning

  2015 — 2016

• New Horizons Computer

  License, Certified Associate Project Management

  2014 — 2014

• PennWest California

  Bachelor of Science (BS), Business Administration and Management, Accounting

  2011 — 2015

Skills

• Compliance Management
• Problem Solving
• Administrative Assistants
• Contract Negotiation
• Communication Skills
• Business Ethics
• Mentoring
• Innovation
• Upstream
• Collaborative Problem Solving
• Gas
• Leadership
• Accounts Receivable
• Accounting
• Petroleum
• Risk Management
• Training
• Project Management
• Microsoft Office
• Strategic Planning
• Time Management
• Contract Management
• Drilling
• Energy Industry
• Energy
• Customer Service
• Accounts Payable
• Consumer Lending
• Microsoft Excel
• Ethical Decision Making
• Organization
• Natural Gas
• Conflict Resolution
• Management
• Team Building