Laurel Weston

Work History

Finance Specialist

Mckinleyville Community Services District

McKinleyville

05.2023 - 07.2025

In my most recent role at McKinleyville Services District, I served as a Finance Specialist, where I managed billing processes, customer service inquiries, and interdepartmental payment coordination. I gained valuable experience in data analysis, collections, and operational service orders, ensuring smooth daily operations and timely account reconciliations. This role enhanced my skills in communication, problem-solving, and cross-team collaboration.
Managed billing operations including deletion billing, adjustment billing, and route billing, ensuring accurate and timely invoices.
Imported and analyzed meter read data and route information to detect anomalies and support utility usage accuracy.
Handled collections on delinquent accounts, including follow-ups and escalation in accordance with district policies.
Processed accounts receivable transactions, coordinated interdepartmental customer payments, and maintained accurate financial records.
Reconciled deposits and supported budget management activities for district finance operations.
Responded to a wide range of customer service inquiries in person and over the phone, maintaining a high level of professionalism and accuracy.
Executed operational service orders and managed application processing for new water/sewer service accounts, including verification of lease, deed, and ownership documentation.
Maintained internal systems through database management, presite processing, and retention of customer records in compliance with public agency standards.
Collaborated across departments to streamline workflows and improve accuracy in billing and customer data systems.

Venue Manager and Talent Buyer

Humboldt Brews

Arcata

01.2008 - 01.2020

Opened and managed mid-size performance venue attached to a brewery and restaurant. In addition to determining all protocols for the new business, I performed a wide range of venue management, talent booking, and administrative functions. Acted as a liaison between talent, production and promotion companies, business managers, and corporate sponsors for negotiating, executing, and maintaining contracts.
Responsible for making initial contacts, follow-ups, and negotiating all contractual agreements.
Managed and executed all contracts and deposits.
Managed the event calendar and communicated the calendar updates to staff and representatives.
Planned and conducted an average of 4-5 shows per week - approx. 200 shows annually.
Designed and executed targeted social media campaigns and press releases for event promotion.
Oversaw day-to-day venue management operations, employee scheduling, conflict management, etc.
Responsible for all administration operations including record keeping and file maintenance.
Established and enforced quality assurance protocols, elevating business profile by 60%.
Hosted diverse and acclaimed acts such as Leon Russell, Les Claypool (Primus), G Love and The Special Sauce, Chris Robinson (Black Crows), Agent Orange, Del McCoury, and many others.

Accounts Receivable Associate

Ideal Positions

Arcata

01.2007 - 01.2008

Member of accounting team for a website Search Engine Optimization Company. Team lead for legal review and analysis.
Responsible for managing all disputed accounts, which involved thorough contract review and detailed written legal analysis.
Achieved and maintained a 90% success rate where disputes were decided on behalf of the business.
Identified delinquent accounts and made determinations on “holds” v. transfers to collection agency.
Processed canceled accounts once the balance was settled with the client.
Responsible for processing and posting daily payments.
Worked closely with supervisor and team on review of contract language.

Owner

Lil L Presents

Arcata

01.2004 - 01.2008

Owned and managed small booking and independent promotional agency for touring performing artists and bands.
Maintained a roster of touring acts and routed the West Coast multi-state tours.
Made contacts with potential venues along with the routing and placed calendar holds, negotiated performance terms, and confirmed/contracted event dates.
Hosted local events by securing suitable venue of play, negotiated terms with agents, confirmed engagement, promoted events, and oversaw all production aspects of the performance.
Generated new leads through face-to-face contact and social media.

General Manager

Café Mokka / Finnish Country Sauna and Tubs

Arcata

01.2001 - 01.2008

Oversaw all operations for unique and popular sauna and hot tub spa with an adjoining café.
Managed budget by analyzing sales data and gross profit margin. Reviewed Profit and Loss reports to ensure accuracy of sales.
Scheduled and maintained employee schedules according to their preferences and needs, and coordinated monthly in-services for staff.
Responsible for all aspects of inventory management: ordering, scheduling, and maintenance.
Performed many accounting functions including Payroll and AR/AP.
Responsible for all staffing concerns including hiring/firing and maintaining a healthy work environment for staff and customers.

Summary

Overview

Work History

Finance Specialist

Venue Manager and Talent Buyer

Accounts Receivable Associate

Owner

General Manager

Education

Masters of Arts - Literature

Masters of Arts - Teaching Writing

Bachelor of Arts - Literature

Skills

Specialties And Skills

Certification

Timeline

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