Shared Services Operations Analyst (AP/AR/Payroll)

Description At Northern Tool + Equipment we get up every day to serve the tradespeople who keep our country running strong and the weekend warriors who want to work like them. It’s our mission to make sure they have the right tools for the job, and an easy, hassle-free experience at our store so they can get in, get out and get on with the job at hand. Your top priority as a Shared Services Operations Analyst (AP/AR/Payroll) is to serve as the primary U.S.-based owner of complex accounts payable issue resolution and vendor relationships. This role acts as a critical bridge between internal business partners and a global shared services team (AP/AR/Payroll), ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant payment processing while continuously improving upstream processes. This position is ideal for an experienced AP professional who enjoys problem-solving, cross-functional partnership, and taking ownership of high-impact issues rather than day-to-day transaction processing. Your positive, professional, roll-up-your-sleeves-to-help attitude contributes to our winning culture and makes sure we leave a lasting impression. Key Responsibilities Accounts Payable – Escalation & Exceptions Serve as the escalation point for invoice exceptions, including three‑way match discrepancies related to pricing, quantity, receiving, or purchase order issues. Resolve service‑based and non‑PO invoices, ensuring proper approval, coding, and documentation. Research and resolve invoice discrepancies by partnering with Purchasing, Merchants, Stores, Distribution Centers, and Finance. Support timely invoice resolution to meet payment terms, prevent late payments, and avoid duplicate payments. Review and troubleshoot invoice coding issues escalated from the AP processing team. Support audit, internal control, and compliance requirements related to Accounts Payable transactions. Advise and partner with the India-based AP team to guide exception handling and escalation while driving process clarity, knowledge transfer, and consistent policy application. Vendor & Internal Partner Support Act as the primary U.S. contact for vendor payment inquiries and issue resolution. Assist with vendor setup, vendor maintenance, and banking changes in coordination with the Shared Services team. Communicate clearly and professionally with vendors regarding invoice status, payment timing, and required documentation. Partner with internal stakeholders to identify root causes of recurring issues and improve upstream accuracy. Shared Services & Process Improvement Projects Act as the primary U.S. contact for vendor payment inquiries and issue resolution. Assist with vendor setup, vendor maintenance, and banking changes in coordination with the Shared Services team. Communicate clearly and professionally with vendors regarding invoice status, payment timing, and required documentation. Partner with internal stakeholders to identify root causes of recurring issues and improve upstream accuracy. What you will bring to the table Required Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field or equivalent practical experience. 5+ years of progressive accounts payable experience in a mid-sized organization. Demonstrated experience resolving invoice exceptions and three‑way match discrepancies. Strong vendor communications and issue‑resolution skills. Preferred Qualifications Experience working with ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, D365, JDE, or similar). Ability to work cross-functionally and influence outcomes without direct authority. Professional, collaborative, and proactive work style. Experience working in a shared services or global delivery model. Background in retail, distribution, manufacturing, or other PO-intensive environments. Exposure to process improvement or continuous improvement initiatives. Knowledge of Accounts Receivable processes. Demonstrates Northern Tool + Equipment’s 12 Core Competencies. Work Environment & Collaboration U.S.-based role partnering with a global AP shared services team. Standard business hours with structured handoffs and collaboration. High interaction with internal stakeholders across the organization. Why This Role High-visibility role with meaningful ownership over complex AP issues. Opportunity to influence process improvements across a global finance function. Collaborative team culture that values initiative, accountability, and continuous improvement. A chance to move beyond transactional work and make a measurable impact. Northern Tool + Equipment is proud to be recognized by Forbes as a Top Midsize Employer in 2023. We are committed to creating a workplace where your contributions are valued, and your professional growth is encouraged. When you join our team, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive and competitive compensation package that includes: Competitive Pay: Earn $54,600 to $78,570 annually, with your exact compensation personalized based on your skills, experience, and location. Flexible Work Schedule: Achieve the work-life balance you deserve with our full-time, 8‑hour shifts, Monday – Friday, complemented by a hybrid work schedule that allows you to work both remotely and in the office. Comprehensive Benefits Package: Your health and well-being are our priority. We offer a variety of health plans, so you can choose what best fits your needs. Employees working 30+ hours per week enjoy a robust benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and a 401(k) plan with an enhanced company match to support your financial future. Generous Employee Discount: Love our products? So do we! Enjoy a significant discount on the quality tools and equipment we offer, helping you save on the items you love to use. Get Paid on Your Terms: With our Daily Pay option, you don’t have to wait for payday—access your earnings whenever you need them for added financial flexibility. Paid Holidays: Take time to relax and recharge with 7 paid federal holidays, because we know how important it is to have time for yourself and your loved ones. Incentives: Be rewarded for eligible incentive programs. #J-18808-Ljbffr Northern Tool