Senior Accounts Payable Specialist

General Purpose & Essential Duties:

The Senior Accounts Payable Specialist is responsible for overseeing and managing the full Accounts Payable (AP) function. This includes processing invoices, reconciling vendor accounts, managing AP reporting, and driving process improvements. The role is pivotal in ensuring accuracy and efficiency within the AP function, with a focus on streamlining processes, increasing automation, and supporting overall financial performance.

Accounts Payable Process Management:

• Oversee and administer the day-to-day accounts payable operations to ensure timely and accurate payment processing.
• Manage the end-to-end AP cycle, including invoice receipt, verification, coding, approval workflows, payment processing, and vendor communication.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, accounting standards, and legal regulations related to accounts payable.

Accounts Payable Analysis:

• Conduct regular analysis and reconciliation of AP balances, aged payables, and vendor accounts to ensure the integrity of financial records.
• Provide insights and reports to management regarding AP trends, vendor payment cycles, and outstanding liabilities.
• Collaborate with the Finance team to prepare accruals, manage cash flow forecasting, and support the month-end close process.

Process Improvement & Automation:

• Lead initiatives to drive efficiencies and improvements within the accounts payable process, identifying bottlenecks and recommending solutions.
• Implement and maintain automation tools and technologies to streamline invoice processing, approvals, and payments.
• Continuously evaluate and refine AP workflows to improve processing speed, reduce errors, and enhance cost control.

Vendor Relations & Communication:

• Develop and maintain positive relationships with key vendors, resolving any payment issues or disputes in a timely and professional manner.
• Address vendor inquiries regarding payment status, discrepancies, and account reconciliations.
• Assist with the onboarding of new vendors and ensuring that the correct documentation and tax information are obtained.

Compliance & Internal Controls:

• Ensure proper documentation and adherence to internal controls to prevent fraud, errors, and misstatements in financial records.
• Assist with internal and external audits related to accounts payable, providing supporting documentation and explanations as needed.

Team Collaboration:

• Work closely with other departments to ensure alignment and coordination in the AP processes.
• Participate in cross-functional projects as needed to support overall business goals.

Required Skills, Abilities, Education & Experience:

• High level of integrity
• Strong knowledge of accounts payable processes and best practices
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and various accounting software tools
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain confidential and meticulous records.
• Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance or related field, or equivalent work experience required
• 5+ years of Accounts Payable experience required
• 2+ years in a senior role preferred
• Proven track record of driving process improvements, implementing automation tools, and optimizing accounts payable operations required.