Accounts Payable ManagerJob Description
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Job Description Sample
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Job Title: Accounts Payable Manager
Location: [City, State/Remote/Hybrid]
Type: Full-time
About the Role:
We're seeking an experienced Accounts Payable Manager to lead our AP department. You'll oversee invoice processing, vendor relationships, and payment operations while managing a team of AP specialists. This role requires strong leadership skills and deep knowledge of accounts payable processes.
Key Responsibilities:
- Oversee daily accounts payable operations and invoice processing
- Manage and mentor accounts payable team members
- Review and approve payment runs and disbursements
- Maintain vendor relationships and resolve payment disputes
- Ensure compliance with financial policies and regulations
- Implement process improvements and automation initiatives
- Prepare monthly AP reports and financial reconciliations
- Coordinate with procurement and finance departments
Perks:
- Competitive salary and performance bonuses
- Comprehensive health and dental benefits
- Professional development opportunities
- Flexible work arrangements
Accounts Payable Manager Responsibilities
Hiring a accounts payable manager? Here's what you can expect them to handle:
- Supervise accounts payable staff and delegate tasks effectively
- Review and approve vendor invoices and payment schedules
- Maintain accurate records of all payable transactions
- Reconcile accounts payable ledger to general ledger monthly
- Develop and implement AP policies and procedures
- Manage vendor relationships and negotiate payment terms
- Ensure timely month-end and year-end closing processes
- Prepare financial reports and variance analysis for management
Qualifications to Be a Accounts Payable Manager
Here's what a solid candidate typically brings to the table:
Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or related field5+ years of accounts payable experience required2+ years in supervisory or management roleStrong knowledge of accounting principles and AP processesProficiency in accounting software and ERP systemsAccounts Payable Manager Prerequisites
Before you even think of hiring, make sure your candidates have:
Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilitiesStrong attention to detail and accuracyAbility to manage multiple priorities and deadlinesExperience with financial reconciliations and reportingKnowledge of compliance requirements and internal controlsAccounts Payable Manager Hard Skills
The “must-haves” on every recruiter's checklist:
Accounting Software: SAP, Oracle, QuickBooksERP Systems: NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics, WorkdayMicrosoft Office: Excel (advanced), Word, PowerPointPayment Processing: ACH, wire transfers, check processingData Analysis: Financial reporting, variance analysisAutomation Tools: Invoice automation, workflow managementDatabase Management: SQL queries, data extractionCompliance Software: SOX controls, audit managementAccounts Payable Manager Soft Skills
Tech skills get them in the door—soft skills help them stick around.
Leadership and team management capabilitiesStrong verbal and written communicationProblem-solving and critical thinkingAttention to detail and accuracyTime management and prioritizationRelationship building with vendors and stakeholdersAdaptability to changing prioritiesDecision-making under pressureAccounts Payable Manager Salary by Experience Level
Entry Level (0-2 Years)
$50k – $65k
Common Titles
Junior Accounts Payable Manager, Associate Accounts Payable Manager
Mid Level (2-5 Years)
$62k – $85k
Common Titles
Accounts Payable Manager, Accounts Payable Manager II
Senior Level (5+ Years)
$85k – $101k
Common Titles
Senior Accounts Payable Manager, Lead Accounts Payable Manager
Frequently Asked QuestionsAbout Accounts Payable Manager Hiring
An Accounts Payable Manager has broader strategic responsibilities including policy development, budget oversight, and cross-departmental collaboration, while a Supervisor focuses primarily on day-to-day team operations and transaction processing. Managers typically oversee larger teams and report to senior finance leadership.
Yes, candidates with extensive AP experience (8+ years) and proven management success can substitute for formal education. Look for certifications like CPA or CPP and demonstrated expertise in process improvement and team leadership to ensure they can handle strategic responsibilities.
Prioritize leadership abilities for this role, as technical skills can be developed more easily than management capabilities. Strong candidates should demonstrate team development experience, conflict resolution skills, and the ability to drive process improvements while maintaining solid accounting fundamentals.
Present case studies involving vendor disputes, process bottlenecks, or month-end closing challenges and ask candidates to walk through their resolution approach. Request examples of process improvements they've implemented and measurable results achieved, such as reduced processing time or cost savings.
Watch for candidates who lack specific examples of team management, show limited knowledge of automation tools, or cannot articulate process improvement initiatives. Poor communication skills or inability to explain complex AP concepts simply also indicate potential challenges in vendor and stakeholder management.
Tools and Programs Accounts Payable Manager Use
Here's what their digital toolbox might look like:
ERP Platforms
SAP•Oracle Financials
Accounting Software
QuickBooks•Xero
Invoice Automation
Tipalti•AvidXchange
Payment Systems
Bill.com•PayPal Business
Spreadsheet Tools
Microsoft Excel•Google Sheets
Document Management
SharePoint•DocuSign
Reporting Tools
Tableau•Power BI
Communication
Microsoft Teams•Slack
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