Nikhil Moraje Rao
CPA-Qualified Audit & Finance Professional | Risk & Compliance | Internal Controls | GAAP
?? Schaumburg, IL | Open to Relocation | ?? nikhilmrao2 | ?? +1 (857) 799-0712
I am a CPA-qualified audit and finance professional with a proven record of driving compliance, strengthening internal controls, and delivering high-quality financial insights that enable smarter business decisions. With a strong foundation in U.S. GAAP, GAAS, and risk management, I have successfully completed 20+ full audit cycles across manufacturing, construction, and non-profit sectors—often under tight deadlines and high regulatory scrutiny.
My expertise includes risk-based audits, J-SOX controls testing, financial statement analysis, and valuation. I leverage data-driven audit tools such as DataSnipper, MindBridge, and TeamMate to streamline processes, cut turnaround times, and uncover control deficiencies before they escalate into larger risks. This technology-forward approach has consistently improved audit efficiency by up to 30% while enhancing accuracy and compliance.
I bring a unique blend of public accounting experience in the U.S. and strategic finance roles in India, where I developed DCF valuation models, 10-year financial projections, and risk-sensitive financial models that secured funding for startups and optimized banking portfolios. In leadership capacities, I have mentored teams, implemented process automation, and introduced internal control frameworks that improved efficiency and generated measurable business value.
Key Highlights:
• Audit & Assurance Excellence – Led and executed comprehensive audit engagements from planning through reporting for diverse clients, ensuring GAAS compliance and delivering actionable recommendations.
• Risk & Compliance – Identified systemic control weaknesses, designed remediation strategies, and implemented J-SOX compliant processes.
• Financial Modeling & Valuation – Built advanced DCF models and projections that guided investment decisions and secured funding for high-growth companies.
• Process Improvement – Reduced audit and reporting turnaround times by 30–80% through technology adoption, workflow optimization, and team mentorship.
• Stakeholder Communication – Known for building strong client relationships, translating complex financial findings into clear business insights, and collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.
Technical Skills: Microsoft Excel (VLookup, Pivot Tables), Power BI, ProFX Engagement, DataSnipper, MindBridge, TeamMate Analytics, Tally, Winman, Microsoft Office Suite.
Certifications:
• Certified Public Accountant (All sections passed; license pending – June 2025)
• Financial Modeling & Valuation (FMVA Modules: DCF, FSA, Investment Decision Techniques)
Education:
• MSc in Finance – Hult International Business School, USA
• MBA – Hult International Business School, USA
• Diploma in Professional Accounting & Finance – Jain University, India
• Bachelor of Commerce (Finance Major) – Bangalore University, India
I am seeking opportunities where I can leverage my audit expertise, risk management skills, and financial analysis background to help organizations strengthen compliance frameworks, optimize financial processes, and drive informed decision-making.