Continuous Improvement - Accounts Payable

Interlake Mecalux, a leading manufacturer of material handling solutions, is seeking to hire for someone to lead continuous improvement efforts in the AP function at our corporate office in Melrose Park, IL.

This position will be responsible for leading continuous improvement initiatives within the Accounts Payable function, with the goal of improving the efficiency, accuracy, standardization, and automation of accounts payable processes. The role will combine the management and optimization of AP processes with the leadership of a team of five employees, ensuring compliance with internal procedures, payment deadlines, and established controls.

The position will work cross-functionally with different areas of the organization to identify improvement opportunities, develop and implement new processes, and leverage the capabilities of existing systems to move toward a more efficient, standardized, and automated AP environment.

Responsibilities

• Analyze current Accounts Payable processes, procedures, and structure to identify inefficiencies, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Lead and implement Continuous Improvement initiatives aimed at transforming AP into an increasingly automated, standardized, and efficient environment.
• Design, document, implement, and maintain standardized processes, policies, and procedures related to Accounts Payable.
• Identify opportunities to better leverage existing systems and tools, reducing manual tasks and improving process quality, reliability, and efficiency.
• Lead and develop a team of five employees, establishing priorities, assigning responsibilities, and ensuring departmental objectives and deadlines are met.
• Provide oversight of key Accounts Payable processes to support the accurate and timely processing and payment of invoices, as well as the effective resolution of discrepancies.
• Work closely with Purchasing and other internal departments to improve communication, resolve discrepancies, and develop more efficient cross-functional processes.
• Develop and monitor Accounts Payable KPIs to evaluate process efficiency, accuracy, performance, processing times, and other relevant metrics, identifying opportunities and actions for improvement.
• Review AP processes and controls to identify potential risks and ensure alignment with company policies and internal control and compliance requirements.
• Analyze recurring AP-related issues and discrepancies, identify their root causes, and work with the appropriate internal teams and vendors to develop sustainable solutions.
• Serve as a point of contact for the resolution of complex AP-related issues and work with vendors and internal teams as needed.
• Support internal and external audits by providing documentation, analysis, and assistance related to Accounts Payable processes and controls.
• Foster a continuous improvement culture within the team by encouraging the identification of improvement opportunities, structured problem-solving, and the adoption of best practices.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. Master’s degree is a plus.
• Strong leadership and people management skills and strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Experience supporting audits and maintaining compliance with internal control requirements preferred.
• Native or fluent English proficiency required and Spanish proficiency preferred.