Maria Mendez

Maria Mendez serves as the Payroll and Tax Manager at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, where she leverages over 20 years of extensive experience in accounting to enhance the financial operations of the institution. In her current role, Maria expertly manages the full cycle of semi-monthly payroll processes for over 550 employees, overseeing a substantial annual budget of $26 million. Her meticulous approach to payroll management not only ensures timely and accurate compensation for staff but also strengthens the overall financial health of the university.

One of Maria’s key achievements includes resolving complex tax discrepancies left by her predecessor, which resulted in the recovery of $250,000 in overpayments and the elimination of penalties and interest charges. This accomplishment underscores her expertise in tax preparation and compliance, as well as her ability to navigate intricate financial challenges. Maria is also adept at balancing and controlling earnings and deduction totals, utilizing her skills in payroll audits and account analysis to maintain the integrity of financial data.

In addition to her technical skills with accounting software such as Oracle, Great Plains, and Paylocity, Maria is recognized for her leadership in fostering diverse teams and improving payroll workflows. Her commitment to quality control and operational efficiency has led to significant enhancements in business processes, ensuring that the university not only meets regulatory requirements but also positions itself for future growth. With a solution-oriented mindset, Maria continues to drive innovation in payroll management, making her an invaluable asset to Charles R. Drew University.