PROFILEThe Manager, Accounts Payable & Optimization will lead modernization initiatives within the Accounts Payable and Expenses function. This role is responsible for evaluating, redesigning and implementing enhanced processes, controls and technologies to improve efficiency, scalability and service delivery across the Firm.
Working closely with the AP leadership team and broader Finance stakeholders, this individual will drive strategic and operational improvements while supporting day-to-day operational excellence. The role will build strong relationships across the business, ensure effective change management practices, and position the function to meet evolving Firm needs.
This position can be based in any of our Canadian offices!
RESPONSIBILITIES- Assist in leading end-to-end Accounts Payable transformation initiatives, including process redesign, automation opportunities, system optimization and policy enhancements.
- Conduct detailed reviews of existing AP processes (vendor invoices, expense claims, credit cards, client disbursements, payment runs, vendor onboarding) and identify opportunities to improve controls, efficiency and user experience.
- Develop and document standardized procedures, control frameworks and best practices to ensure consistency across offices.
- Partner with IT and Finance Systems teams to evaluate and implement system upgrades, workflow tools, automation solutions and reporting enhancements.
- Coordinate and participate in testing for system upgrades, implementations and enhancements, including development of test scripts and validation of results.
- Establish and track key performance indicators (KPIs) and service level metrics to monitor operational effectiveness and identify trends.
- Support data integrity and reporting improvements to enable better financial oversight and decision-making.
- Assist with change management efforts, including stakeholder communication, training materials, and user adoption strategies.
- Provide project management oversight including scope definition, timelines, risk assessment, issue resolution and status reporting to Finance leadership.
- Collaborate with AP leadership on capacity planning, role design and workflow optimization to ensure long-term sustainability of the function.
- Support audit readiness by strengthening documentation, controls and compliance practices.
- Act as a strategic liaison between Accounts Payable, Finance leadership, IT, Procurement and the broader Firm.
- Provide guidance and mentorship to AP team members involved in project initiatives.
QUALIFICATIONS- University degree.
- 7+ years of progressive and relevant experience in finance roles.
- Strong knowledge of MS Excel.
- Knowledge of Aderant or other accounting software is an asset
- Demonstrates a solutions-oriented approach, challenges status quo, and strives to improve processes.
- Strong interpersonal and people management skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively with other Firm members and provide outstanding client service.
- Ability to manage multiple and competing tasks/priorities in order to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
BENEFITS/PERKSGowling WLG's total rewards program is designed to foster a culture where high performance and personal well-being go hand-in-hand. We support your career and life with:
- 100% employer-paid health, dental, and mental health coverage, plus an annual lifestyle spending allowance
- Benefits coverage for Firm members and their dependents from day one!
- 15+ vacation days and hybrid work flexibility
- Parental leave top-up for 26 weeks (after 12 months of full-time employment)
- Group Retirement Savings Plan with employer match
- Financial protection through short & long-term disability, life, accident & critical illness insurance
- Employee & Family Assistance Program, guided CBT, and an internal network of 120+ trained Mental Health First Aid responders
- Recognition awards, appreciation events, and a supportive, collaborative work culture
- Perks and preferred pricing programs, referral bonuses and more
The starting range for this role is $80,000 to $95,000. Starting salary will be determined based on an applicant's individual skills, competencies and unique qualifications. Gowling WLG employees have the potential to exceed this range based on tenure and performance.
This position is currently vacant and is open to both internal and external candidates. Gowling WLG is recruiting for this role to support ongoing firm needs and team operations.
This employer may use tools within our applicant tracking system that include artificial intelligence-supported features, such as automated candidate matching. These tools do not make hiring decisions; all screening, assessments, and selections are reviewed and completed by human recruiters and hiring managers.
