Summary:
The Accounts Payable Specialist is responsible for managing the accounts payable process from invoice receipt to payment disbursement, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements. This role involves processing a high volume of invoices, reconciling vendor statements, resolving discrepancies, and maintaining strong vendor relationships. The ideal candidate possesses a solid understanding of accounting principles, excellent organizational skills, and proficiency in using accounting software and automation tools.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities:
- Invoice Processing:
- Receive, review, and process invoices for accuracy, proper approvals, and appropriate account coding.
- Ensure invoices comply with company policies and regulatory requirements (e.g., sales tax, VAT).
- Utilize automated invoice processing systems and workflows to streamline invoice entry and approvals.
- Resolve invoice discrepancies through communication with vendors and internal stakeholders.
- Vendor Management:
- Maintain vendor master data in accounting systems, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information.
- Set up new vendors, collect required documentation (e.g., W-9, banking information), and perform vendor due diligence.
- Respond to vendor inquiries regarding payment status, invoice issues, and other related matters.
- Payment Processing:
- Prepare and process payments via check, ACH, wire transfer, or other electronic methods.
- Reconcile processed payments to bank statements and resolve any discrepancies.
- Manage employee expense reimbursements, ensuring compliance with company policy and timely processing.
- Month-End Closing and Reporting:
- Assist with month-end closing procedures, including preparing accruals and reconciling accounts payable sub-ledger to the general ledger.
- Generate accounts payable reports, such as aged payables, cash flow forecasts, and vendor analysis.
- Provide support for internal and external audits by preparing documentation and responding to inquiries.
- Compliance and Controls:
- Adhere to internal controls and accounting policies to ensure the integrity of financial data.
- Maintain accurate and organized documentation to support all accounts payable transactions.
- Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce risk.
- Continuous Improvement:
- Stay current with industry best practices and regulatory changes related to accounts payable.
- Participate in special projects and initiatives to improve the accounts payable process and support organizational goals.
Skills and Qualifications:
- Education:
- Associate's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred.
- Experience:
- Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in accounts payable or general accounting.
- Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in using accounting software (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, QuickBooks, Microsoft Dynamics).
- Experience with automated invoice processing systems (e.g., Tipalti, Bill.com, AvidXchange) a plus.
- Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUP).
- Soft Skills:
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with vendors and internal stakeholders.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks and prioritize effectively in a fast-paced environment.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Knowledge:
- Solid understanding of general accounting principles (GAAP).
- Familiarity with relevant regulatory standards and compliance requirements.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Experience working in a multi-company or subsidiary environment.
- Experience with data analytics and reporting tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau).
- Certification in Accounts Payable (e.g., Certified Accounts Payable Professional - CAPP).
Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer.
- Ability to lift and carry objects up to 10 pounds.
Department: Finance/Accounting
Reports To: Accounts Payable Manager/Controller
Equal Opportunity Employer:
Tesoro Technology is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity at all levels. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.