Merrill Horridge

Professional Overview

Merrill Horridge is a seasoned finance professional with over 8 years of experience in accounting, auditing, and financial reporting. As the Director of Financial Accounting & Reporting at Ochsner Health, he oversees the organization's financial accounting operations, ensures accurate and timely financial reporting, and plays a key role in driving financial strategy and process improvements.

Experience Summary

Current Role

As the Director of Financial Accounting & Reporting at Ochsner Health, Merrill is responsible for leading a team of accounting professionals and overseeing the organization's financial accounting and reporting functions. In this role, he ensures the accuracy and integrity of financial data, implements internal controls and best practices, and collaborates with cross-functional teams to enhance financial reporting and decision-making. Merrill's expertise in financial reporting has enabled Ochsner Health to provide reliable and transparent financial information to stakeholders, contributing to the organization's overall financial health and strategic objectives.

Career Progression

Prior to joining Ochsner Health, Merrill served as the Director of Accounting at Baywater, where he successfully implemented new accounting software and streamlined financial processes, resulting in a 20% improvement in operational efficiency. Before that, he held the position of Senior Tax & Audit Accountant at Bourgeois Bennett, CPAs and Consultants, where he gained valuable experience in tax planning, compliance, and financial auditing. Merrill began his career as an Audit Senior Assistant at Deloitte, where he honed his analytical skills and developed a strong understanding of financial reporting and internal controls.

Academic Background

Merrill holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he graduated with honors. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and has also completed additional certifications in financial management and data analytics, further expanding his professional expertise.

Areas of Expertise

• Financial accounting and reporting

• Internal controls and auditing

• Tax planning and compliance

• Financial data analysis and strategic decision-making

• Financial process improvement and automation

• Cross-functional collaboration and team leadership

Professional Impact

Throughout his career, Merrill has played a pivotal role in enhancing the financial performance and reporting capabilities of the organizations he has served. At Ochsner Health, his leadership has contributed to the organization's financial stability and transparency, earning him recognition as a trusted advisor to senior management. Merrill's dedication to continuous improvement and his ability to drive impactful initiatives have made him a valuable asset to the finance and accounting community.

Conclusion

With his extensive experience, strong technical expertise, and proven track record of success, Merrill Horridge is well-positioned to continue making significant contributions to the finance and accounting field. As he progresses in his career, Merrill remains committed to leveraging his skills and expertise to drive financial excellence and support the strategic objectives of the organizations he serves.