Citi

Led projects that help Citi become a more dynamic and integrated organization. Work with partners across Corporate FP&A, Capital Planning, and Risk to improve financial forecasting and governance by modernizing processes and changing how individuals do their jobs.

Key Achievements:
- Automated the firm’s forecasting model back-test calculation and reporting process, resulting in a 20% increase in efficiency. 
- Through process modernization, improved the quality and integration of the operational planning process—as well as its speed—by 15%. 

Specialties:
- Process modernization and implementation
- Project management
- Data analysis
- Communication

Senior Vice President (SVP), Finance Transformation

New York City Transit

McKinsey-like internal consulting group for a $12 billion public transportation network

Execution expert and thought partner to senior leaders, driving digital transformation, optimizing operations, and elevating user experiences through data-driven strategies. 

Achievements:
- Saved $2.3 million/year through a retention strategy which increased the rate by 23%.
- Increased a shop's productivity by 12% through a new production model. 
- Avoided excessive overtime utilization with the development of a real-time information tool.

Specialties:
- Business and process modeling
- Data analysis and visualization
- Hypothesis testing via simulation
- Project management

Tech-stack:
- Data query/data management (SQL, SSIS, Access, Excel Array Functions)
- Data visualizations and dashboards (Power BI, Tableau)
- Data analysis (Excel pivot tables, solver, multiple regression, trend curves)
- Communication (PowerPoint, Apple Keynote, Word)

Project Leader, Strategic Initiatives

Fashion Institute of Technology

For over 12 years, I had the privilege of teaching in an entrepreneurial education program aimed at helping students unlock their career potential in university settings.

Spearheaded the development and implementation of a hands-on New Venture Development course, equipping students with practical knowledge of opportunity evaluation, business creation, and management strategies. 

Achievements:
- Designed and delivered curriculum focused on product/service development and customer acquisition strategies.
- Increased student engagement by 30% through interactive learning exercises.
- Guided students in launching 10 successful business ventures

Adjunct Professor / Lecturer, Venture Development & Entrepreneurship

McMichael Group, LLC

Directed strategic initiatives to support Founders, Presidents, and Business Development Heads of emerging businesses in enhancing operations by reducing uncertainty and complexity through prototyping, data-driven decision-making, and collaborative methods.

Achievements:
- Designed, stood up, and managed the back-office functions, including accounting and governance controls, for a consumer-facing internet concern.
- Produced a compelling story (financial and outcome) for a media-powered consumer engagement platform that secured partnerships with a top consulting firm and a package goods concern.

Specialties:
- Proficient in Advanced Microsoft Excel (power pivots, what-if analysis, v-lookups), PowerPoint, and Apple Keynote.
- Experienced in SQL, Power BI, and data visualization techniques.

Management Consultant | Finance and Operations

National Urban League

Directed the transformation of a for-profit business concept into a successful reality by designing and executing the right social enterprise model. 

Achievements:
- Effectively managed and empowered a dedicated team of five that successfully realized the vision of a business advisory service (social enterprise) within a year. 
- Developed strategic partnerships with two Global 100 firms generating $1.5 million of consulting fees.
- Advised entrepreneurs on scalable business practices and participated as a broker on $50 million of hard asset acquisitions.

Tech-stack:
- Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Apple Keynote

Vice President, Entrepreneurship & Business Development

Showtime Networks Inc.

Directed strategic finance initiatives, including framing complex problems, conducting investment analysis, due diligence for partnerships, acquisitions, and derivatives, and developing financial models for a $1B division of Viacom. Specialized in long-term investment planning, deal analysis, and modernization efforts.

Achievements:
- Extracted $54 million of value from an unprofitable, declining business by negotiating an asset sale/marketing partnership with a strategic buyer.
- Delivered $172 million of strategic projects, better positioning Showtime in the evolving market.

Specialties:
Long-term investment planning,  deal analysis, and modernization

Vice President, Strategic Financial Management

Promoted by the EVP of Finance and Operations, after serving as Manager of Financial Planning & Analysis (6 months), to modernize the company’s finance and accounting operations. 

Achievements:
- Formulated the $30 million capitalization structure that ensured the creation of the Sundance Channel. 
- Developed the financial strategy that allowed Showtime to produce 50 original movies per year.
- Developed the financial model for TV Land; rejuvenated fully depreciated content assets.

Tech-stack:
Microsoft Excel (financial modeling), Word, and PowerPoint

Director Corporate Development

Honeywell

Honeywell International, Inc.  (formerly AlliedSignal)

Directed financial operations for a $50 million business unit including forecasting, annual budgeting, and financial cycles, achieving cost efficiencies and strategic financial planning milestones.

Achievements:
- Captured $400,000 annual cost avoidance by restructuring the division’s transportation practices.
- Implemented streamlined financial processes leading to increased profitability.

Tech-stack:
- Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, and Outlook)
- Proprietary accounting system and controls

Financial Analyst, Financial Planning and Analysis

Imagine embarking on a journey where every decision you make not only enhances your bottom line but also propels your teams forward, ensuring that every move aligns with your core values and delights your customers. That's the future we're building together—a realm where profitability and purpose harmoniously coexist.

Over my 20-year career, I've honed a unique skill set that hinges on integrating business processes, technology, and, most importantly, the ability to forge meaningful, impactful relationships. It all began with a deep-rooted passion for engineering, where I mastered the art of crafting innovative solutions that push boundaries at UVa. Strengthened by an MBA from Duke, this passion has driven me to consistently deliver impactful results for organizations seeking growth and transformation, such as Honeywell, Paramount Global, and Citi.

In my collaborations with leaders, I have witnessed a transformative shift—where:
   • Clarity of purpose illuminates the path forward
   • The right initiatives are executed with precision
   • Results are not just met, but exceeded 

Through structured problem-solving, data-driven analysis, and strategic planning honed over countless projects, I've enabled businesses to unlock their full potential and navigate complex challenges with confidence.

My expertise encompasses:
   • Identifying value creation opportunities
   • Facilitating end-to-end project execution
   • Ensuring decisions are backed by actionable insights and measurable outcomes

I bring a unique blend of analytical rigor and strategic vision to every endeavor.

If you're ready to explore how we can collaborate to drive your business forward, or if you simply want to chat about the latest in technology or share cycling tips, I invite you to connect with me here on LinkedIn.

Let's inspire change together!

Donald McMichael

SmartCFO

Most Fractional CFOs are excellent at delivery but struggle to consistently attract clients.
They  rely on referrals, or try cold DMs… but still don’t have a predictable way to book sales calls.

At SmartCFO, I help Fractional CFOs fix their LinkedIn positioning and build a quiet, repeatable client acquisition system.
The process includes:
→ Auditing their profile + content strategy
→ Rebuilding their authority positioning
→ Creating a daily LinkedIn routine (comment → connect → convert)
→ Coaching them on warm DM flows that lead to discovery calls

CFOs who go through the SmartCFO system:
→ Build consistent visibility with ideal clients
→ Start booking 3–10 qualified calls/month
→ Grow their pipeline without chasing, cold calling, or relying on referrals

Founder

Ledgerive LLC

Founded Ledgerive LLC to provide remote Fractional CFO services and advanced financial modeling for startups, helping them build strong financial foundations for growth.

✔Guided over 100 startups in strategic financial planning, leading to improved resource allocation and increased profitability.
✔Delivered tailored cash flow management, budgeting, and forecasting solutions that significantly reduced burn rates for early-stage companies.
✔Collaborated with CEOs and founders to create investor-ready financial models that have been instrumental in securing funding.

PowerBIGate

Co-founded PowerBIGate, specializing in data analytics and financial modeling to drive business insights.

✔Developed financial models that enable clients to evaluate potential investment opportunities and make informed strategic decisions.
✔Delivered training programs to equip startups with skills in financial modeling and analytics.

Co-Founder

Sterling Consultancy and Advisory Services

✔Led bookkeeping and financial reporting for multiple US-based clients, ensuring accuracy and compliance with US accounting standards.
✔Conducted Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A), providing clients with insights into budgeting, forecasting, and resource allocation to optimize financial performance.
✔Developed advanced financial models tailored to each client’s needs, enabling them to make data-driven decisions and assess various growth and investment scenarios.
✔Engaged in financial analytics to identify trends, variances, and key performance indicators, enhancing clients’ understanding of their financial health.
✔Managed end-to-end financial reporting processes, delivering accurate and timely financial statements that informed strategic decision-making.

Senior Manager

AH Accountants - United Kingdom

✔Managed bookkeeping and accounts production for various clients using QuickBooks and Xero, ensuring accurate record-keeping and streamlined financial reporting.
✔Handled PAYE (Pay As You Earn) returns, ensuring timely and compliant submissions through QuickBooks.
✔Oversaw the preparation and review of VAT returns for clients, ensuring accuracy in tax calculations and compliance with UK VAT regulations.
✔Responsible for corporate accounts production and submission of Corporation Tax returns (CT600) using BTC, helping clients maintain compliance with HMRC requirements.
✔Filed partnership tax returns and self-assessment tax returns, managing all aspects of individual and partnership compliance and ensuring accuracy in reporting.

Assistant Manager

Khurram Aziz & Co. Chartered Accountants

✔Conducted audits in compliance with International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) and International Standards of Auditing (ISAs).
✔Provided detailed recommendations to management on improving financial controls and compliance.

Audit Associate

Zahid Jamil & Co, Chartered Accountants

✔ Assisted in audit planning, risk assessment, and establishing materiality thresholds, ensuring a thorough and effective audit process.
✔ Supported the documentation of audit procedures, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and best practices.
✔ Conducted audits of expenses, bank transactions, and cash management, identifying discrepancies and providing actionable recommendations.
✔ Prepared comprehensive management letters outlining audit findings and recommendations for improvements.
✔ Maintained accurate books of accounts, ensuring up-to-date financial records that support timely reporting and decision-making.
✔Recorded transactions and prepared financial statements in accordance with relevant accounting standards, contributing to the overall accuracy of financial reporting.

Audit Junior cum Accountant

Fractional CFO turned LinkedIn Lead Gen Expert | Helping other CFOs book consistent sales calls | SmartCFO System

Struggling to Get Clients as a Fractional CFO?

You’re great at the work. You deliver results.

But getting consistent sales calls? That’s the hard part.

I know because I was there.
When I started my CFO firm, I tried referrals, cold outreach… but nothing created a repeatable system.

So I built one.

By mastering LinkedIn positioning and quiet lead generation, I went from invisible to inbound.
Now, I help other Fractional CFOs do the same through my SmartCFO System.

If you're tired of:
→ Random leads
→ Ghosted DMs
→ Posting but getting no calls

Let’s fix that.

Get a free LinkedIn audit 
Book here: calendly.com/bilalahmad3

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The Battle

Donald McMichael

Bilal Ahmad

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