Accounts Payable SupervisorJob Description

Everything recruiters need to write, post, and fill a accounts payable supervisor role—fast.

Job Description Sample

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Job Title: Accounts Payable Supervisor

Location: Phoenix, AZ / Remote / Hybrid

Type: Full-time

About the Role:

We're seeking an experienced Accounts Payable Supervisor to lead our AP team. You'll oversee invoice processing, vendor relationships, and payment operations while ensuring compliance and accuracy.

Key Responsibilities:

  • Supervise and mentor accounts payable staff daily
  • Review and approve vendor invoices and payment schedules
  • Ensure timely and accurate processing of all payments
  • Implement internal controls to prevent fraud and errors
  • Manage vendor relationships and resolve payment discrepancies
  • Prepare financial reports and reconcile AP accounts monthly
  • Coordinate with procurement and finance teams on workflows
  • Monitor compliance with company policies and regulations

Perks:

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) with company match
  • Flexible hybrid work schedule
  • Professional development opportunities
  • Paid time off and holidays

Accounts Payable Supervisor Responsibilities

Hiring a accounts payable supervisor? Here's what you can expect them to handle:

  • Supervise AP team and coordinate daily workflow activities
  • Review and approve invoices, payments, and expense reports
  • Establish procedures to mitigate fraud and theft risks
  • Monitor internal controls through audits and testing reports
  • Manage vendor relationships and resolve payment disputes promptly
  • Prepare monthly financial reports and account reconciliations
  • Ensure compliance with tax regulations and accounting standards
  • Train staff on AP systems and best practices
Accounts Payable Supervisor Job Description

Qualifications to Be a Accounts Payable Supervisor

Here's what a solid candidate typically brings to the table:

CheckmarkBachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field
Checkmark5+ years accounts payable experience with 2+ supervisory
CheckmarkStrong knowledge of GAAP and accounting principles
CheckmarkProficiency in ERP systems and AP automation software
CheckmarkAdvanced Excel skills for data analysis and reporting

Accounts Payable Supervisor Prerequisites

Before you even think of hiring, make sure your candidates have:

CheckmarkExcellent attention to detail and accuracy standards
CheckmarkStrong leadership and team management capabilities
CheckmarkAbility to meet tight deadlines in fast-paced environment
CheckmarkExperience with internal controls and audit procedures
CheckmarkEffective communication skills with vendors and stakeholders

Accounts Payable Supervisor Hard Skills

The “must-haves” on every recruiter's checklist:

CheckAccounting Software: SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, QuickBooks
CheckERP Systems: Microsoft Dynamics, Workday, PeopleSoft
CheckAP Automation: Bill.com, AvidXchange, Tipalti
CheckSpreadsheet Tools: Advanced Excel, Google Sheets
CheckPayment Processing: ACH, wire transfers, virtual cards
CheckDocument Management: SharePoint, DocuSign, Adobe Acrobat
CheckReporting Tools: Power BI, Tableau, Crystal Reports
CheckTax Compliance: 1099 processing, sales tax software

Accounts Payable Supervisor Soft Skills

Tech skills get them in the door—soft skills help them stick around.

CheckLeadership and team development abilities
CheckStrong analytical and problem-solving skills
CheckExcellent attention to detail and accuracy
CheckEffective communication and interpersonal skills
CheckTime management and prioritization capabilities
CheckConflict resolution and negotiation skills
CheckAdaptability to changing processes and technologies
CheckDependability and professional integrity

Frequently Asked QuestionsAbout Accounts Payable Supervisor Hiring

A Supervisor focuses on daily team operations and transaction oversight, while a Manager handles strategic planning, budgeting, and department-wide policy development. Supervisors typically report to Managers and have fewer direct reports with more hands-on involvement in processing.

Yes, if they have 7+ years of progressive AP experience and proven supervisory skills. Strong technical proficiency, relevant certifications (like CPP or CAP), and demonstrated leadership can compensate for formal education in many organizations.

Prioritize leadership abilities for supervisory roles, as technical skills can be trained more easily. Look for candidates who demonstrate team development, conflict resolution, and process improvement capabilities alongside solid AP fundamentals.

Present case studies involving vendor disputes, fraud scenarios, or workflow bottlenecks. Ask candidates to walk through their problem-solving approach, prioritization methods, and how they'd coach team members through similar situations.

Watch for lack of internal controls knowledge, inability to explain past process improvements, poor communication skills, or no experience with AP automation tools. Candidates who can't discuss specific examples of team development or conflict resolution may struggle in supervisory roles.

Tools and Programs Accounts Payable Supervisor Use

Here's what their digital toolbox might look like:

ERP Platforms

SAPOracle Financials

AP Automation

Bill.comCoupa

Payment Systems

ACH networkswire platforms

Spreadsheets

ExcelGoogle Sheets

Document Management

SharePointDocuSign

Reporting

Power BITableau

Collaboration

Microsoft TeamsSlack

Tax Software

AvalaraVertex

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