Accounts Payable Lead

Accounts Payable Lead

The Accounts Payable Lead is responsible for overseeing day-to-day Accounts Payable functions and serving as the primary operational lead for the AP Team. This role provides direct guidance, training, workload management, and compliance with company policies. The AP Lead serves as the primary liaison between the AP Staff and the Shared Services Manager, escalating significant issues and providing regular reporting on team performance, aging, and operational metrics.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct daily AP team huddles.
• Review and approve voucher batches before posting for accuracy, proper coding and compliance with company policies.
• Verify and approve vendor ACH and Wire templates.
• Review and approve new vendor accounts.
• Present payment package to Shared Service Manager for approval.
• Monitor all AP inboxes and ensure timely response.
• Serve as first escalation point for AP team members, vendor inquiries and issue resolution.
• Coordinate coverage for PTO and absences.
• Assist with timely and accurate month-end close activities related to accounts payable, including accruals and account reconciliations.
• Escalate critical suppliers to Shared Service Manager.
• Maintain strong internal controls and ensure compliance with company policies and accounting standards.
• Support audits by preparing documentation and responding to audit requests.
• Identify opportunities to improve AP processes, efficiency and automation.
• Provide training, guidance and support to AP team members.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to resolve discrepancies and improve workflows.
• Document procedures.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Strong understanding of AP processes, three-way matching and internal controls.
• Proficiency in Excel (pivot tables, lookups, basic analysis).
• Exposure to month-end close and audit support.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize and organize effectively.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality of company and client information.
• Desire to continue professional growth through job and external training.
• Goal orientated individual with a focus on outcomes mindset.
• Experience working in a medium-sized company.
• Prior experience in manufacturing.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Self-starter with strategic thinking skills.
• High attention to detail.
• Clear and effective communication both verbal and written.
• Drive for success in a culture of ownership and accountability.
• Ability to work independently and manage time effectively.
• Process improvement mindset.

Education: Associate's degree in accounting or finance.

Years of Experience: 5-7 years hands on experience in A/P with at least 3 years' experience as a lead.

Salary: This position offers a salary range of $75 - $90K annually, depending on the candidate's experience, skill set, and overall qualifications.