Accounts Payable Manager

Job Summary The Manager, Accounts Payable is a strategic leader responsible for transforming the AP function into a scalable, data-driven, and technology-enabled operation. This role will lead process optimization, AI enablement, KPI development, global standardization, and cross-functional alignment across multiple regions, while ensuring strong internal controls and SOX compliance. You will build a high performing team, strengthen internal controls, and scale processes to support a public company environment. You will partner with Accounting and Finance leadership to ensure accurate reporting, strong cash management, and audit readiness. Key Job Responsibilities Strategic Leadership & Transformation Lead the evolution of the AP function into a best-in-class, highly automated operation Assess and evolve team structure and capabilities to align with a more automated, analytics-driven AP function Drive AP transformation initiatives across US, Brazil, and Spain teams (including acquired entities) Partner with leadership and third-party consultants to evaluate and redesign transactional service models Process Optimization & Automation Own optimization and stabilization of Medius implementation, ensuring maximum ROI Drive adoption of AI tools and automation to increase touchless invoice processing Drive measurable improvements in automation adoption (e.g., touchless invoice rate, exception reduction) leveraging Medius and AI tools Identify inefficiencies and redesign workflows toward exception-based processing Lead GR/IR cleanup strategy and ongoing governance to improve financial accuracy and visibility Drive vendor adoption of e-invoicing and digital processes to improve efficiency and reduce manual processing Data, Analytics & KPIs Design and implement AP KPIs and dashboards (cycle time, touchless rate, cost per invoice, exception rates) Establish consistent reporting cadence with actionable insights to Finance leadership Use analytics to proactively identify trends, risks, and improvement opportunities Ensure KPIs are aligned to enterprise goals including working capital optimization and operational efficiency Team Leadership & Talent Development Build and develop a high-performing AP organization with strong analytical and process improvement capabilities Upgrade team skill sets to align with automation, AI, and advanced analytics needs Foster accountability, proactive communication, and continuous improvement mindset Provide regular, structured, and transparent communication to Finance leadership Global Alignment & Integration Standardize AP processes across all regions and acquired entities Align policies, systems usage, and performance metrics globally Support integration of new business units into the AP operating model Controls, Compliance & SOX Governance Ensure adherence to SOX controls and maintain strong internal control environment across AP processes Design, document, and enforce standardized AP controls, including segregation of duties, approval workflows, and payment controls Partner with Internal Audit to support SOX audits, walkthroughs, and control testing Proactively identify control gaps and lead remediation efforts Ensure compliance with company policies and global regulatory requirements Establish governance over vendor master data, banking changes, and fraud prevention measures Month-End Close & Financial Operations Oversee AP-related month-end close activities, ensuring accuracy and timeliness Ensure proper accruals for goods/services received but not invoiced (GR/IR) Review and validate AP balances, reconciliations, and aging reports Own resolution of AP-related discrepancies in partnership with Accounting to ensure accurate financial reporting Drive continuous improvement in close timelines and accuracy through automation and process discipline Provide insights and analysis related to AP activity impacting financial statements Qualifications 7+ years of experience in AP or shared services, with significant leadership experience Proven experience in AP transformation, automation, or shared services optimization Strong understanding of SOX compliance and internal control frameworks Experience with AP automation tools (Medius or similar required) Experience with AI tools, process mining, or advanced analytics preferred Experience working across global teams and multiple regions Strong leadership, change management, and influencing skills Preferred qualifications Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field Experience supporting external audits and public company reporting cycles Track record of implementing automation or system transformations Experience operating in a global or multi-entity environment Success Metrics % of touchless invoice processing Reduction in cost per invoice Improvement in GR/IR aging and accuracy KPI adoption and reporting effectiveness Month-end c #J-18808-Ljbffr