Manager, Accounts Payable

Job Description:

Manager, Accounts Payable

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 s