Accounts Payable Lead

Accounts Payable Team Lead

The Accounts Payable Team Lead oversees daily Accounts Payable operations, including invoice processing, discrepancy resolution, and reporting. This role supports the AP Supervisor by leading the team, ensuring efficient workflows, timely payments, and adherence to AP policies and procedures, and serving as a backup in the Supervisor's absence.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage the daily operations of the Accounts Payable Department, ensuring accurate and timely invoice processing and data entry.
• Lead, coach, and develop the Accounts Payable team to continuously improve performance and deliver high-quality results.
• Spearhead reporting requirements, efficiently resolving discrepancies and ensuring compliance with financial regulations and company policies.
• Effectively collaborate with the Accounts Payable Manager, assisting in the planning, organizing, and control of process flow and payment obligations.
• Vigilantly uphold and enforce adherence to Accounts Payable policies and procedures across the department, fostering a culture of financial compliance and responsibility.
• Provide reliable backup coverage for the Accounts Payable Manager during periods of absence, maintaining smooth operations and team productivity.
• Monitor and manage financial data entries and ensure their accuracy, promptly addressing errors or discrepancies for uncompromised financial accountability.
• Display expertise and leadership in handling vendor and supplier payment issues, ensuring cordial relationships and the efficient resolution of concerns.

Direct Manager Direct Reports

• Reports to: Accounts Payable Supervisor
• Direct Reports: None; may serve as a backup to the Supervisor as needed

Travel Requirements

• Travel is not typically required for this role. Any occasional travel will be communicated in advance based on business needs.

Physical Requirements

• The physical demands described are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this role. This is primarily a sedentary position with occasional filing, requiring the ability to lift files, open cabinets, and bend or stand as needed. The role requires prolonged sitting, close visual acuity, use of standard office equipment, and effective verbal and written communication. Reasonable accommodations may be made in accordance with applicable law.

Working Conditions

• This role is based in a structured office environment at the Field Support Center, with a standard MondayFriday business schedule and limited flexibility for occasional remote work as business needs allow. The position operates in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment and may require additional hours during critical financial periods. Clear communication and collaboration across in-person and virtual meetings are required.

Minimum Qualifications

• Associate's degree in accounting, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Minimum of five years of progressively responsible Accounts Payable experience, preferably in a large corporate or shared services environment.
• At least two years of experience in a leadership or supervisory role, with demonstrated ability to guide and mentor AP staff.
• Proficiency with Accounts Payable systems (e.g., DMSi/Agility or similar platforms).
• Advanced knowledge of Purchase-to-Pay processes and best practices.
• Strong analytical, mathematical, and problem-solving skills with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively engage both finance and non-finance stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Word.
• Demonstrated experience communicating, interpreting, and implementing Accounts Payable policies, procedures, contracts, and regulations.
• Proven ability to manage workloads in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while maintaining confidentiality.
• Ability to lead and support a team, fostering collaboration, accountability, and a positive work environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's degree in accounting, business, or finance.
• Seven or more years of Accounts Payable experience, including 23 years in a supervisory, team lead, or management role.
• Strong knowledge of accounting principles, Accounts Payable operations, and general ledger best practices.
• Advanced ability to analyze financial data, identify discrepancies, and implement effective corrective solutions.
• Experience with enterprise-level accounting systems, preferably DMSi or similar platforms.
• Demonstrated experience leading teams, managing daily workflows, and driving operational efficiency.
• Solid understanding of AP terms, conditions, regulations, and internal controls, including audit and compliance requirements.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail with the ability to meet strict deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and Outlook.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments and organizational levels.
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills with the ability to multitask effectively.
• Customer-focused mindset with a commitment to building strong internal and external relationships.
• Proven leadership capability with the ability to mentor, train, and motivate team members.

Minimum Education

• Associate's degree in a related field.

Preferred Education

• Associate's degree in accounting, business, or finance.

Minimum Years Of Work Experience

• A minimum of five years of work experience in an Accounts Payable role, including at least two years in a supervisory or leadership capacity.

Competencies

• Leadership: Ability to lead, motivate, and support a team in achieving departmental and organizational goals.
• Financial Acumen: Strong understanding of Accounts Payable operations, invoice management, and financial controls.
• Attention to Detail: Consistently performs work accurately and in compliance with AP policies and procedures.
• Judgment & Decision Making: Makes sound decisions to resolve discrepancies, manage risk, and support fiscal responsibility.
• Communication: Communicates clearly and effectively in both written and verbal formats with team members and stakeholders.
• Technical Proficiency: Proficient in accounting systems and productivity tools to support efficient workflows and timely payments.
• Organization & Prioritization: Effectively plans and manages workload to meet deadlines and ensure operational continuity.
• Adaptability: Able to step in for the AP Manager as needed to ensure continuity of operations.