Overview
A global organization operating over 150 data centers across more than 20 countries is seeking a Senior Manager, Accounts Payable. This senior finance management role is responsible for overseeing the end-to-end accounts payable operations worldwide, ensuring timely, accurate, and compliant processing of supplier invoices, payments, and related accounting entries. The position involves strategic partnership with Finance leadership to drive process improvements, operational efficiency, and strong internal controls while leading and developing a high-performing global AP team.
Responsibilities
Accounts Payable Strategy & Operations
- Define and execute the strategic vision for the Accounts Payable function aligned with organizational goals and financial objectives.
- Lead a global AP team of 32 members located in the USA, Europe, India, and Asia.
- Oversee end-to-end AP processes including invoice processing, payment approvals, vendor reconciliations, and month-end close activities.
- Optimize AP workflows, policies, and systems to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and compliance, leveraging automation and best practices.
- Provide insights and recommendations to Finance leadership on AP performance, trends, and cost-saving opportunities.
Vendor Management & Compliance
- Maintain strong relationships with vendors and internal stakeholders to ensure accurate and timely payments.
- Ensure compliance with corporate policies, regulatory requirements, and internal controls related to vendor payments and AP processes.
- Review and approve complex or high-value payments and resolve escalated vendor queries.
- Support audits and compliance reviews by providing documentation, explanations, and assurance over AP processes.
Leadership, Team Development & Collaboration
- Lead, manage, and mentor a global AP team, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Assign, monitor, and coordinate team activities to ensure operational efficiency and high performance.
- Identify training needs and provide development opportunities to enhance team capabilities and career growth.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Finance, Procurement, and Treasury to drive process alignment and operational excellence.
Process Improvement & Strategic Initiatives
- Continuously evaluate AP processes, systems, and controls, recommending and implementing improvements to drive efficiency, accuracy, and compliance.
- Lead AP transformation initiatives such as automation, system upgrades, and workflow optimization.
- Partner with Finance leadership to align AP operations with broader strategic objectives and support organizational growth.
Knowledge & Attributes
- Deep understanding of accounts payable processes, internal controls, and accounting principles.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret and act on operational and financial data.
- Proven leadership capabilities with experience building and mentoring high-performing teams.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills, able to collaborate across business functions.
- Detail-oriented, highly organized, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
- Proactive, strategic thinker with the ability to drive continuous improvement initiatives and operational excellence.
- Maintains confidentiality and high ethical standards in handling financial information.
Academic Qualifications & Certifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Professional accounting qualifications such as CPA, CA, CIMA, CMA, ACCA, ACA, or equivalent are preferred.
Required Experience
- 10+ years managing accounts payable operations or related areas such as General Ledger in complex or global organizations.
- Hands-on experience with AP systems, ERP platforms, and process automation initiatives.
- 5+ years of leadership experience with a proven track record of managing and developing teams, driving performance, and fostering a collaborative culture.
- Experience establishing and maintaining internal controls, compliance frameworks, and process improvements.
- Exposure to cross-functional projects including finance transformation, system implementations, or operational efficiency programs.
- Strong knowledge of accounting standards, internal controls, and compliance frameworks relevant to Accounts Payable.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to remain stationary for long periods.
- Operate computer, peripherals, and other office equipment.
- Perform work during US business hours and time zones.
Work Conditions & Other Requirements
- Up to 20% travel required.
- Work predominantly from a remote location with a stable internet connection.
Compensation & Benefits
- Base salary range: $158,100.00 - $225,900.00 (for US-based roles).
- Eligibility for an annual bonus based on individual and company performance.
- Paid time off, medical, dental, and vision benefits.
- Life and supplemental insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage.
- Flexible spending account and 401(k) retirement plan.
- Monthly stipend provided to cover expenses associated with remote work and personal mobile device use, if applicable.
Location
- Remote position requiring reliable internet connection and electricity.
- Work hours aligned with US business hours and time zones.