Accounts Payable Specialist

Job Description

Job Description

Committed to providing life insurance solutions since 1969 in the United States and globally since 1975, Citizens, Inc. is a publicly traded company (NYSE: CIA) that has maintained a listing on the New York Stock Exchange since 2002.

Operating through our insurance subsidiaries, we strategically offer traditional insurance products in niche markets to capitalize on competitive advantages. With a dedicated team of employees located in Austin, Louisiana and a global network of agents, our reach extends to Latin America, Central America, and Asia.

THE OPPORTUNITY

Title:  Accounts Payable Specialist

Job Type : Full-time Non-Exempt

Reports to : Accounts Payable Manager

Location : Onsite in Austin, TX (Corporate Headquarters located in the Domain)

At Citizens, Inc., we've curated an exceptional work environment that goes beyond the ordinary. Our open-plan workspace offers panoramic views of the Domain with multiple conference rooms readily available. Start your day with complimentary coffee in our large break area, enjoy walks on the scenic trails nearby, or hit our onsite gym. Our Lunch Drop service provides the luxury of delivering delicious meals directly to our suite for a stress-free lunch break. For financial needs, the onsite bank is at your service. Furthermore, enjoy the convenience of free covered parking in our garage, featuring charging stations for electric vehicles. Participate in our various monthly employee events designed to enhance our cultural engagement. At Citizens Inc., we prioritize strong employee involvement to foster a dynamic workplace culture. Elevate your career with us, where your workplace is more than just an office; it's a destination for growth, innovation, and a flourishing community.

Summary:  Citizens, Inc. is seeking an Accounts Payable Specialist  to join our accounting team. The right candidate will possess high attention to detail and the ability to interact with all levels of staff and management.

WHAT YOU WILL GET TO DO

1. Accounts Payable Operations
   • Process daily disbursements and ensure accuracy, completeness, and timeliness of all payments
   • Perform payment reversals, rejections, and returns in accordance with internal workflow
   • Process wires, ACH, and internal bank transfers
   • Process commission payments and ensure settlement amounts are accurate and fully supported
   • Maintain accurate, up-to-date agent and vendor account information
   • Review payment activity to identify irregularities or anomalies and proactively investigate discrepancies, seeking clarification as needed
2. Vendor Management and Reconciliation
   • Track, manage, and respond to inquiries from internal stakeholders and external vendors
   • Maintain accurate vendor and agent master data, including W-9 collection, payment terms, and banking details, in compliance with internal controls and documentation standards
   • Maintain and reconcile accounts payable ledger accounts to ensure accuracy and alignment with financial records

1. General Administrative Duties:
   • Crosstrain with other members of the team or functional areas within the department to provide coverage and support
   • Perform additional job-related duties and participate in special projects as needed to support team objectives
2. Skills and Abilities:
   • Strong attention to detail with a focus on accuracy, compliance, and minimizing rework
   • Demonstrated ability to meet critical business deadlines and operate with a sense of urgency in a fast-paced environment
   • Demonstrate experience in supporting high-volume transaction processing
   • Proven ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional stakeholders and resolve issues professionally
   • Takes initiative to investigate, ask for clarifying questions, and ensure alignment before execution
   • Proactive mindset with the ability to identify areas for process improvements to create efficiencies

WHAT YOU NEED TO SUCCEEDRequired Qualifications:

• 3-5 years of progressive experience in Accounts Payable operations
• Associate or bachelor's degree in accounting, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience
• Working knowledge of disbursement processes, including checks, wire transfers, and ACH payment
• Hands-on experience with ERP systems (e.g. Oracle Fusion Cloud), including invoice entry and validation, vendor maintenance, and payment processing
• Experience with end-to-end invoice processing, including invoice coding, 2-way/3-way matching, and resolving exceptions with internal teams and vendors
• Proven ability to communicate professionally and effectively with vendors and internal stakeholders to resolve invoice and payment issues in a timely manner
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, with advanced Excel skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, along with effective interpersonal abilities

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in a general accounting or finance office environment
• Working knowledge of month-end close activities related to Accounts Payable, including accrual support and account reconciliations
• Strong understanding of internal controls (SOX a plus), segregation of duties, and confidentiality when handling vendor banking and payment information

BENEFITS (the fun stuff)

As an employee of Citizens, we promise you the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our customers, communities, and one another. We believe in fostering a culture of camaraderie, where your ideas are valued, and collaborative efforts drive innovation. Our commitment to rewarding work extends beyond professional growth to recognize your individual contributions and achievements.

We take a complete approach to our employees' well-being. Our benefits package includes medical, dental, vision, short-term and long-term disability, AD&D, group term life insurance, and a matching 401k to secure your financial future. Our benefits plan allows for Virtual Visits and access to our Employee Assistance Program, showcasing our commitment to your health and work-life balance. Enjoy the added perks of generous Paid Time Off and holidays, ensuring you have the time to recharge and savor life outside of work. Join us and embrace a workplace that values not only your professional growth but also your personal fulfillment.

At Citizens, our employees and customers are at the heart of everything we do. Our success as a company begins with our team of employees and departments to service our customers. That's why we strive to create an environment where employees are equipped and challenged to reach their full potential.

Citizens is an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status. We are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where every individual is valued, and all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.