Staff Accountant - Accounts Payable

GENERAL PURPOSE

The Staff Accountant will play a key role in supporting the accounting department by providing financial data, preparing reports, and assisting with the accounts payable (AP) process. This position will work closely with a 3rd party accounts payable team to ensure the accurate and timely processing of vendor invoices. A strong background in accounts payable is essential, as the Staff Accountant will serve as a liaison between the company and external AP service providers.

DUTIES AND ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Accounts Payable Management:

• Collaborate with the 3rd party accounts payable team to ensure that all vendor invoices are processed efficiently and accurately within the agreed timelines.

• Monitor the status of open payables, following up on outstanding invoices, and resolving discrepancies in collaboration with the AP team and vendors.

• Support the reconciliation of vendor statements and resolve any variances between vendor records and company ledgers.

• Maintain organized and up-to-date accounts payable records, ensuring compliance with internal controls and regulatory requirements.

• Collaborate with the purchasing and procurement teams to streamline the procure-to-pay process, ensuring that purchase orders, invoices, and payments are properly aligned.

• General Accounting Support:

• Participate in month-end and year-end closing processes by preparing journal entries and accruals, ensuring that all transactions are accurately recorded.

• Preparation of balance sheet reconciliations, including prepaid expenses, accrued liabilities, and other accounts as needed.

• Support the finance team with ad hoc projects and tasks, including the preparation of budgets, forecasts, and financial analysis.

• Prepare reports on AP aging, payment status, and vendor activity, providing insights to management on trends and potential issues.

• Assist in the development of financial reports and schedules for internal and external stakeholders, ensuring compliance with GAAP and company accounting policies.

• Provide back-up support for other accounting functions as needed.

• Compliance and Process Improvement:

• Actively participate in the review and enhancement of accounts payable processes, identifying opportunities for increased efficiency, automation, and control.

• Ensure compliance with company policies and procedures, as well as with local, state, and federal regulations related to accounts payable and financial reporting.

• Provide support for internal and external audits, including the preparation of documentation and responding to auditor inquiries related to accounts payable transactions.

• Assist in the development and documentation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the AP process, ensuring that they are kept up-to-date and adhered to by the team.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

Essential Knowledge, Skills and Abilities Required:

• Demonstrated ability to develop process improvement related to accounts payable automation and optimization.

• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., SAP) and Microsoft Excel.

• Strong understanding of general internal controls related to accounts payable and general accounting.

• Excellent organizational skills with a strong attention to detail and accuracy.

• Ability to communicate effectively with vendors, internal teams, and external service providers.

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

• Possess high degree of professionalism.

• Must be able to work in fast-paced and growing environment.

• Motivated, self-starter who desires success.

• Demonstrated ability to be customer focused and responsive to questions and needs in a deadline driven environment.

• Detail-oriented and have excellent follow-through skills.

Minimum Education and Experience Required:

• Associate's degree in accounting, finance or related field.

• Minimum of 2 years of experience in accounting, with a strong emphasis on accounts payable processes.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance or related field.

• Minimum of 3 years of experience in accounting, working with a third party accounts payable team or outsourcing providers.

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• While performing this job's duties, the employee is regularly required (for most of the working day) to sit and make coordinated finger movements for data entry on a keyboard.

• Occasional long-distance or air travel as needed - not to exceed 10%.

• General office environment