Manager, Accounts PayablePosition OverviewThe Manager, Accounts Payable is responsible for leading day-to-day Procure-to-Pay (P2P) and Accounts Payable operations within a shared services environment. This role focuses on ensuring accurate and timely invoice processing, payment execution, account reconciliations, and compliance with company policies and internal controls.
Reporting to the Director of Global Shared Services, the Manager will oversee a small team of
3 direct reports and play a key role in supporting process improvements, operational efficiency, and the successful execution of Accounts Payable initiatives. This position will also support the organization's SAP S/4HANA transition by helping implement standardized processes and ensuring operational readiness within the AP function.
The Manager, Accounts Payable will promote a culture of continuous improvement, customer service, accountability, and process excellence while partnering closely with Finance, Procurement, business stakeholders, and suppliers.
Key ResponsibilitiesAccounts Payable Operations- Manage daily Accounts Payable operations, ensuring timely and accurate invoice processing, payment execution, and account reconciliations.
- Monitor team performance and workload distribution to ensure service levels and internal deadlines are met.
- Support cash management objectives by ensuring payment schedules align with company payment terms and policies.
- Assist in resolving invoice discrepancies, vendor inquiries, and payment-related issues.
- Maintain and improve process documentation, standard operating procedures, and service level agreements (SLAs).
Process Improvement & Systems Support- Identify and implement process improvement opportunities to increase efficiency and reduce manual effort.
- Support the adoption of automation, workflow technologies, electronic invoicing, and other AP system enhancements.
- Participate in SAP S/4HANA implementation activities, including testing, process design, training, and stabilization efforts.
- Develop and monitor operational metrics and dashboards to measure performance and identify improvement opportunities.
Compliance & Controls- Ensure compliance with SOX requirements, company policies, and established internal controls.
- Perform regular reviews of AP transactions to ensure accuracy and adherence to procedures.
- Support internal and external audit activities by providing documentation and assisting with remediation efforts.
- Maintain appropriate controls around vendor management, invoice approvals, and payment processing.
Stakeholder Partnership- Partner with Procurement, Finance, Treasury, and business stakeholders to resolve operational issues and improve end-to-end P2P processes.
- Build positive working relationships with suppliers and internal customers to support effective service delivery.
- Communicate performance results, operational updates, and process changes to stakeholders as needed.
Team Leadership & Development- Directly manage and develop a team of 3 Accounts Payable professionals.
- Provide coaching, performance feedback, training, and professional development opportunities.
- Foster a collaborative, customer-focused, and accountable team environment.
- Ensure team members understand departmental goals, priorities, and performance expectations.
Job QualificationsEducationRequired:- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field.
Preferred:- CPA, CAPP, or other relevant professional certification.
- MBA or advanced degree preferred but not required.
Experience- 5-7 years of progressive experience in Accounts Payable, Procure-to-Pay, or financial operations.
- 2-3 years of people leadership experience with direct management responsibility.
- Experience managing AP operations within a shared services, corporate, or multinational environment preferred.
- Experience supporting ERP implementations or major system enhancements, preferably SAP or SAP S/4HANA.
- Working knowledge of AP processes, vendor management, payment methods, reconciliations, and internal controls.
- Experience with process improvement initiatives and operational performance measurement.
- Familiarity with automation tools, workflow systems, OCR technology, or AP digital transformation efforts is preferred.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities- Strong understanding of Accounts Payable and Procure-to-Pay processes.
- Knowledge of SOX compliance, audit requirements, and internal control frameworks.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
- Effective communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Proficiency with ERP systems and Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel.
- Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop team members.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)- Invoice Processing Accuracy
- Invoice Processing Cycle Time
- On-Time Payment Rate
- Vendor Issue Resolution Timeliness
- Accounts Payable Reconciliation Accuracy
- Compliance with SOX and Internal Controls
- Team Productivity and SLA Achievement
- Internal Customer and Supplier Satisfaction Scores
- Process Improvement and Automation Adoption Metrics
- Successful Support of SAP S/4HANA Implementation Activities
Scope of Responsibility- Directly manages 3 Accounts Payable team members.
- Responsible for operational execution of Accounts Payable processes rather than enterprise-wide P2P strategy.
- Supports departmental objectives and process improvement initiatives under the guidance of the Director of Global Shared Services.
- Contributes to system implementations, control compliance, and operational excellence efforts within the AP function.
