Mikaella Joi Tabudlong – Bookkeeping

Hi, I’m Mikaella Joi Tabudlong, but my friends call me “Mika”. I graduated with a degree in Marketing from Jose Rizal University and planning to continue pursuing my Master’s again after 2-3 years. I worked in the Banking and Financial industry for almost five years in three different roles. I didn’t imagine that I would experience a different kind of work setup throughout my journey. This rapid change provides numerous opportunities but also presents challenges that require flexibility, adaptability, and continuous learning.

I began my career in one of the largest banks in the Philippines as a CSR – Bank Teller, where my primary duties included cash handling and processing of cash/check deposits, withdrawals, check encashment, closing of accounts, and signature verification. My ability to handle pressure and voluminous transactions while maintaining high accuracy has helped me build a reputation. The pandemic era significantly changed many aspects of life, from healthcare systems to work culture, education, and social norms.

Due to health safety reasons, I accepted a new opportunity to work in a back office role with a hybrid work set-up and no client interaction. I worked as a Disbursement Control Assistant who receives, validates, and processes billings, invoices, and requests for payments from vendors’ /service providers of goods and services availed by the Bank. I also process payments and other recurring payables as validated following disbursement and withholding tax guidelines. I make an effort to understand their expectations, preferred communication styles, and decision-making when it comes to the standard operation procedures of the Bank. By studying hard embracing new tools and systems, and prioritising personal growth, I became one of the top performers among my colleagues during my first year. All hard work and perseverance helps me overcome challenges and build my resiliency.

In my third year of working, I’ve decided now to look for another opportunity outside the company and seek new challenges outside my comfort zone. I joined a Dutch multinational banking and financial services where Philippine hubs provide support like lending, reconciliation, payments to various banking branches across the world, and a lot more other services. I developed my expertise in processing SWIFT electronic payments for Financial Institutions and Non-Financial institutions clients. Throughout my journey here, I have now an understanding of how to be more open-minded which allows me to consider different perspectives and cultures when facing any difficulties or problems in the production.

I acquired strong problem-solving skills, resolve transaction discrepancies, and am skilled at collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure business runs smoothly. Along with maintaining personal relations, I ensure customer satisfaction by interacting with customers, vendors, and the internal team when needed through good communication skills for inquiries on payment status or of any kind.

After experiencing a new work setup, I realised the value of having a work-life balance and started to look for a new opportunity that aligns with my career and personal goals. Transitioning into a new work environment requires patience, adaptability, and a proactive approach. I have a strong passion for operational excellence, a commitment to customer satisfaction, and a proven ability to streamline processes in fast-paced environments. Work-from-home role motivates me to enhance my personal and professional aspects of life. Focusing on well-being is the most important thing in life. I stay productive and focused by setting a routine that will work for me and for the job itself.

I am aiming for a flexible work environment where I can showcase my capabilities and self-discipline towards every task given which can lead to improved mental health and overall satisfaction.

For a copy of Mikaella’s resume please click here.