Accounts Payable Manager

Job Summary

The Accounts Payable Manager in the retail sector oversees the efficient processing of all accounts payable functions, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements. This role involves managing a team, collaborating with vendors, and working closely with other departments to support the organisation's financial health. 

Key Responsibilities

Accounts Payable Operations

• Supervise and manage the day-to-day operations of the accounts payable team, ensuring timely and accurate processing of invoices and payments. 
• Oversee the reconciliation of accounts payable transactions and resolve discrepancies with vendors and internal teams. 
• Ensure compliance with applicable tax laws, accounting standards, and internal policies. 
• Monitor and manage the accounts payable aging report to maintain optimal cash flow. 

Team Leadership and Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of accounts payable specialists, providing training and performance feedback. 
• Allocate workload and set priorities to meet deadlines effectively. 
• Foster a positive and collaborative team environment. 

Vendor and Stakeholder Relationships

• Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure smooth payment processes. 
• Negotiate payment terms and resolve disputes with vendors in a professional manner. 
• Collaborate with the procurement, inventory, and other relevant teams to streamline processes. 

Process Improvement and Automation

• Lead the final stages of implementation of automated accounts payable system 
• Identify inefficiencies in accounts payable processes and implement improvements to enhance accuracy and productivity. 
• Work with the IT department to optimize the use of accounting software and systems. 
• Stay updated on industry trends and best practices to recommend process enhancements. 

Reporting and Compliance

• Prepare and analyse accounts payable reports, including metrics on processing time, payment accuracy, and vendor performance. 
• Ensure accurate month-end and year-end closing processes related to accounts payable (Invoice cut off, GRNI review, Accruals, Prepayments, Aging analysis, AP-GL reconciliation, Returns, etc) 
• Support internal and external audits by providing necessary documentation and reports. 

Qualifications and Skills

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field. 
• Experience:
• 5+ years of experience in accounts payable, with at least 2 years in a leadership role. 
• Prior experience in the retail industry is highly preferred. 
• Technical Skills:
• Proficiency in accounting software and retail systems (e.g. Oracle, Power BI, EPOS) is advantageous but not essential. 
• Strong Excel skills for reporting, analysis, and reconciliation. 
• Familiarity with ERP systems and process automation tools is an advantage. 
• Soft Skills:
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment. 

Key Competencies

• Attention to detail and accuracy. 
• Leadership and team management skills. 
• Vendor relationship management. 
• Process optimization and continuous improvement mindset.