Senior Accounts Payable Specialist

Senior Accounts Payable Specialist

At Wellesley, our mission is to deliver an outstanding liberal arts education to women who will make a difference in the world. Our collaborative community, comprising of faculty, students, staff, and alumnae, is guided by our shared commitment to educational excellence. Join us in this transformative journey!

Reporting to the Accounts Payable Manager, the Senior Accounts Payable Specialist provides advanced administrative and operational support for the day-to-day activities of the Accounts Payable department. This position is responsible for reviewing accounts payable transactions for accuracy, completeness, and compliance with College policies and departmental procedures; responding to inquiries from vendors, faculty, and staff; and supporting continuity of operations by serving as backup to the Accounts Payable Manager, as needed. The position also coordinates student employees, assists with policy and procedure documentation, supports ERP-related issue resolution, and contributes to annual tax reporting and other departmental initiatives.

Primary Position Responsibilities:

• Review accounts payable transactions and documentation for accuracy, completeness, required approvals, supporting documentation, and compliance with College policies and departmental procedures.
• Monitor the Accounts Payable shared mailbox and respond to inquiries from vendors and members of the College community regarding accounts payable matters, including policies, procedures, and payment status.
• Support departmental operations by serving as backup to the Accounts Payable Manager and assisting with Accounts Payable-related work that supports the College's Student Bursar Office.
• Provide guidance and training to faculty and staff on Accounts Payable policies, procedures, and related processes to support compliance and effective operations.
• Assist with departmental administration and special projects, including maintaining organized methods for tracking and resolving inquiries, monitoring office supply inventory, supporting policy and procedure development, collaborating on ERP system issues, and assisting with annual 1099 production, distribution, and electronic filing.
• Other duties as assigned.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Provides day-to-day coordination, training, and work oversight for student employees supporting Accounts Payable operations.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field, with a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in accounts payable, accounting operations, finance, or a related administrative area.
• Experience working with computer-based ERP systems in a large-scale automated environment is required; Workday experience is preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to apply policies and procedures, manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and provide effective customer service in a collaborative environment is required.
• Experience coordinating or overseeing the work of student employees or other support staff is preferred.

Skills and Abilities:

• Demonstrated knowledge of accounts payable practices, internal controls, and customer service principles.
• Ability to work independently with limited direction, exercise sound judgment, and take initiative in resolving routine issues and escalating more complex matters as appropriate.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team and to establish and maintain effective working relationships across departments.
• Ability to train, coordinate, and provide day-to-day guidance to student employees or other support staff.
• Ability to review financial and administrative documentation for accuracy, completeness, required approvals, and compliance with established policies and procedures.
• Strong organizational skills and demonstrated ability to prioritize work effectively, manage multiple responsibilities, and meet established deadlines with a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to respond professionally to vendors, faculty, staff, and other members of the College community.
• Ability to interpret, explain, and apply departmental and College policies and procedures in a clear, consistent, and service-oriented manner.
• Demonstrated proficiency with computer-based ERP systems and other standard business software applications; ability to learn and use Workday and related systems effectively.

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without employer's sponsorship now or in the future.

Salary: The pay range for this role is $32 to $33 an hour.

Flexibility & Schedule: This is a full-time, one-year fixed-term administrative role. Our standard schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM, with a one-hour lunch break. We value a collaborative hybrid environment. Our standard schedule includes three days on campus to connect with the team, with two days of remote work after introductory period.

Company Description and Benefits: Wellesley's mission is to provide an excellent liberal arts education to women who will make a difference in the world. We advance our mission by working together as a community—faculty, students, staff, and alumnae.

Embark on a fulfilling career journey at Wellesley College, where we prioritize your well-being and professional growth. As a valued member of our team, you'll enjoy a comprehensive array of benefits and resources designed to enhance both your work-life balance and long-term success.

• Competitive Compensation: Experience competitive wages ensuring your dedication is recognized and rewarded.
• Exceptional Benefits Package: Access a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision and pre-tax saving benefits, life insurance, disability coverage, and more to safeguard your health and that of your loved ones.
• Commuting and Transportation: Enjoy the convenience of free parking on our picturesque campus, easily accessible from major roadways. We are also accessible via the MBTA commuter rail.
• Paid Time Off: Take advantage of paid vacations, personal days, sick time, and holidays to recharge and maintain a healthy work-life harmony.
• Retirement Savings: Plan for the future with our retirement savings plan. Wellesley College contributes up to 10.5% towards your 403(b) plan for eligible employees.
• Work/Life and Wellness: A hybrid work environment for select positions (additional details will be provided during the interview process), caregiving support through Wellthy, legal plan insurance, pet insurance discount and a variety of other resources including retirement planning, and access to cultural and leisure activities throughout metro-Boston.
• Professional Development: Enhance your skills and explore growth opportunities through continuing training and pathways for growth within our supportive environment.
• Tuition and Education Benefits: Invest in your education with tuition benefits, and access resources to navigate student loan forgiveness, reinforcing our commitment to your ongoing learning.
• Campus Privileges: Enjoy free use of our state-of-the-art athletic and fitness facilities with onsite fitness classes, Library resources, and seize opportunities to attend diverse campus events that contribute to a vibrant community.

Apply today and take your first step toward a rewarding career with Wellesley College – where your unique strengths and success are celebrated as part of our shared commitment to inclusivity!

Worker Sub-Type: Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Time Type: Full time

EEO Statement: At Wellesley, we embrace and honor difference and diversity. We believe the best ideas—the best solutions—draw on a range of voices, perspectives, and experiences. As a college, and as a community, we are dedicated to assuring that all members of the Wellesley community have an equal opportunity to flourish. Wellesley College is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination against qualified individuals in hiring and advancement based on any legally protected status. Candidates who believe they can contribute to the College community are encouraged to apply. It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.