AP Lead

The AP Lead Accountant is responsible for managing the full-cycle accounts payable process and supporting key financial close activities. This role ensures timely, accurate invoice processing and payment disbursement, maintains vendor relationships, and actively contributes to the month-end close process. The AP Lead will also coordinate with cross-functional teams, assist in financial reporting, and support internal controls and compliance efforts.

• Lead the daily operations of the Accounts Payable team, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in invoice processing and payment execution.

• Review and approve payment batches, ensuring appropriate documentation and coding.

• Monitor AP aging reports and vendor reconciliations; resolve discrepancies with vendors and internal teams.

• Oversee employee expense processing and ensure adherence to company travel & expense policies.

• Maintain and update vendor master records in compliance with internal controls.

• Assist with 1099 reporting and year-end tax documentation.

• Participate in month-end close activities, including:

  • Accruals for unbilled expenses

  • Journal entries related to AP and prepaids

  • Account reconciliations for AP-related general ledger accounts

  • Analysis of AP balances and variances for reporting

• Support external audits and ensure compliance with SOX/internal control requirements.

• Identify and implement process improvements, automation initiatives, and best practices in AP.

• Train, mentor, and support junior AP staff to promote operational efficiency and development.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.

• 4-6 years of progressive AP experience, with at least 2 years in a lead or supervisory role.

• Strong knowledge of US GAAP and financial close processes.

• Hands-on experience with monthly close duties (accruals, reconciliations, journal entries).

• Proficient in ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, or Microsoft Dynamics.

• Intermediate to advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, etc.).

• Strong organizational and analytical skills, with attention to detail.

• Ability to prioritize tasks and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Experience in a multi-entity or shared services environment.

• Familiarity with AP automation tools and expense systems (e.g., Concur, Tipalti).

• Understanding of SOX compliance and internal controls.
  
  Prior involvement in process documentation and system implementations.