Chief of Accounts Payable & Expenses

Job Summary

The Chief of Accounts Payable & Expenses is responsible for leading and managing the accounts payable and expense management functions within the organization. This executive role involves developing and implementing strategies to optimize accounts payable processes, ensuring timely and accurate processing of invoices and payments, maintaining strong vendor relationships, and supporting overall financial operations. The Chief will collaborate closely with the finance department and senior management to ensure compliance with financial policies and effective cash flow management.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement strategies to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of accounts payable and expense management.
• Invoice Processing Oversight: Ensure the accurate review, verification, and processing of invoices from vendors and suppliers, in compliance with company policies.
• Payment Management: Oversee timely payments to vendors, maintaining accurate financial records and ensuring adherence to payment terms.
• Vendor Communication: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with vendors, addressing invoice inquiries, payment statuses, and discrepancies.
• Account Reconciliation: Supervise regular reconciliations of accounts payable records, ensuring accuracy and prompt resolution of discrepancies.
• Financial Reporting: Lead the preparation and submission of comprehensive accounts payable reports to the finance department, including aging reports and payment forecasts.
• Compliance Assurance: Ensure compliance with financial regulations and internal policies related to accounts payable and expenses.
• Expense Management: Oversee monitoring of departmental budgets, tracking expenses, and ensuring adherence to budgetary guidelines.
• Collaboration: Work closely with other departments, such as finance and procurement, to ensure seamless processing of invoices and payments.
• Audit Support: Facilitate internal and external audits by providing necessary documentation and support related to accounts payable activities.
• Continuous Improvement: Stay informed about best practices in accounts payable management and spearhead process improvements to enhance operational efficiency.
  
  

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field; a master’s degree or professional certification is preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in accounts payable or accounting, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience in optimizing accounts payable processes and managing expense functions.
• Proficiency in accounting software and accounts payable management systems.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills for data analysis and financial reporting.
  
  

Core Skills

• Attention to Detail: Exceptional accuracy and attention to detail in managing financial records and processes.
• Leadership Skills: Strong leadership abilities to guide and develop a high-performing accounts payable team.
• Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage professionally with vendors and internal stakeholders.
• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical skills to identify discrepancies and implement effective solutions for invoice and payment issues.
• Integrity: High ethical standards and integrity in managing financial transactions and vendor relationships.
• Team Collaboration: Ability to work collaboratively across functions to enhance financial operations and achieve organizational goals.
• Time Management: Strong organizational skills to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines consistently.
  
  

Key Result Areas (KRAs)

• Timely Payments: Ensure all vendor payments are processed promptly, adhering to established payment terms.
• Invoice Accuracy: Achieve exceptional accuracy in invoice processing and account reconciliations.
• Vendor Relationships: Foster and maintain positive vendor relationships through effective communication and timely resolution of issues.
• Reporting Timeliness: Provide timely and comprehensive accounts payable reports to senior management and the finance department.
• Process Improvement: Identify and implement strategic improvements to accounts payable processes, enhancing overall efficiency and effectiveness.
• Financial Compliance: Maintain rigorous compliance with all relevant regulations and internal policies related to accounts payable and expense management.