Accounts Payable Associate III

At Niagara, we’re looking for Team Members who want to be part of achieving our mission to provide our customers the highest quality most affordable bottled water.

Consider applying here, if you want to:   

• Work in an entrepreneurial and dynamic environment with a chance to make an impact.   
• Develop lasting relationships with great people.   
• Have the opportunity to build a satisfying career.

We offer competitive compensation and benefits packages for our Team Members.

Accounts Payable Associate III

The Accounts Payable (AP) Associate III role combines advanced problem-solving, process optimization, leadership, strategic analysis, and cross-functional collaboration. This position requires an in-depth understanding of the accounts payable function, systems, and broader business operations, enabling the individual to make decisions that impact both the AP department and the organization as a whole. Key responsibilities include advanced invoice processing using 3-way and 2-way match systems, data entry, exception handling, and managing specialized approvals and electronic invoicing to ensure accurate and timely payments to suppliers. The AP Associate III is also responsible for troubleshooting and resolving complex discrepancies through collaboration with both internal teams and external contacts. This role demands a high level of productivity, exceptional customer service, and the ability to maintain strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders.

Essential Functions

• Process invoices, both manually and electronically, using 3-way match system and 2-way match system and apply payments to appropriate invoices using payment applications such as wires or credit cards
• Handle high-volume and complex invoices that may require exception handling, specialized approvals, or manual intervention.
• Ensure accurate matching of purchase orders, receipts, and invoices for payment, with the ability to troubleshoot and resolve complex discrepancies.
• Research and correct payment discrepancies by working with AP Banking and the Controller Team
• Research and correct invoices that are processed manually and via automation such as: OTM, EDI, OBN and BOTs
• Recommend updates for automation tools such as: OTM, EDI, OBN and BOTs; work with the AP Analyst or Continuous Improvement Team for implementation
• Voice recommendations and enhancements on reporting that will improve time efficiency in AP
• Works with the Continuous Improvement (CI) Team and AP Analyst(s) to ensure proper usage and maintenance of automation tools such as but not limited to: OTM, EDI, OBN and BOTs
• Research and correct invoice and payment discrepancies
• Manage vendor payment schedules, ensuring timely and accurate payments
• Verify and manage supplier payment methods by ensuring accurate banking information
• Take appropriate discounts and meet payment terms that optimize rebate opportunities
• Preform monthly review of supplier statements and resolve issues with internal departments and suppliers
• Proactively identify, escalate, and resolve complex payment issues, working closely with procurement, finance, and vendors to resolve discrepancies or disputes.
• Solve issues through communication with affected internal departments and suppliers
• Maintain and update vendor information in system
• Create and maintain job aids to improve workflow
• Continually review processes, procedures and work habits to improve workflow and cost saving opportunities
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and timeliness of the Accounts Payable workflow
• Analyze recurring discrepancies or process inefficiencies and work on solutions to prevent reoccurrence
• Generate reports on outstanding payables, and vendor payment activity for internal stakeholders and senior management
• Ensure that proper controls are in place to safeguard against fraud and errors, and actively contribute to the development of stronger controls and procedures
• Perform regular reconciliations of accounts payable to general ledger, ensuring that all payments are correctly recorded and discrepancies are promptly addressed
• Preform monthly accrual review
• Prepare for Month End Closing:
• Review Monthly Aging Report
• Review Prepayments and apply payments accordingly
• Research invoices in Exception Report and adjust incorrect postings
• Assist with internal and external audits, providing necessary documentation and answering audit queries regarding accounts