Director of Accounts Payable Operations POST NUMBER: 452663

Client: International Media Organization
Role: Director of Accounts Payable Operations
Pay Rate: $65/hr-$75/hr
Hybrid 3 times a week onsite 2 days from home 
Location: Midtown, Manhattan (Hybrid working schedule)

This role as an individual contributor position with an emphasis on process improvement for all AP Operations. 

Job Description: 

The Director of Global Accounts Payable (AP) Operations will lead and manage the end-to-end AP function across multiple regions and business units. This role is responsible for ensuring operational excellence, process efficiency, compliance, and strategic alignment with business objectives. The successful candidate will have proven leadership experience in global AP operations, a strong understanding of finance systems and controls, and a continuous improvement mindset.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Lead Global AP Operations

• Oversee the full AP lifecycle including vendor relationship management, master data maintenance, invoice processing, disbursements, reconciliations, and help desk support.

• Ensure consistent execution and high-quality service across onshore and offshore teams.

2. Drive Performance and Efficiency

• Provide oversight and governance of the BPO provider, ensuring delivery against agreed service levels and KPIs.

• Develop and refine performance metrics including KPIs and CPIs to drive global operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

• Analyze performance trends and initiate improvements based on data-driven insights.

3. Resolve Complex Issues

• Serve as the primary escalation point for operational challenges from internal teams and key stakeholders such as Treasury, IT, and executive leadership.

• Ensure timely and effective resolution of issues, implementing preventive measures to avoid recurrence.

4. Ensure Compliance and Internal Control

• Monitor compliance with SOX, internal controls, and regulatory requirements.

• Establish and enforce standardized processes for managing exceptions and non-standard activities.

• Stay ahead of evolving regulatory, financial, and business environments and adapt AP processes accordingly.

5. Optimize Systems and Processes

• Define and track end-to-end AP process metrics, measuring service levels, process health, and compliance.

• Collaborate with IT to manage system enhancements, troubleshoot issues, and oversee change management related to AP platforms.

6. Foster Collaboration and Continuous Improvement

• Partner with global AP teams across regions to foster alignment and shared goals.

• Champion a continuous improvement culture across teams, identifying opportunities for process optimization and standardization.

• Advise the Global Process Owner (GPO) on process design enhancements and technology investments.

7. Support Audit Activities

• Coordinate internal and external audit activities, providing required documentation and ensuring prompt resolution of findings.

• Maintain a strong control environment to support audit readiness and risk mitigation.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 8 years of experience in Accounts Payable or related finance operations in a large, global organization.

• At least 5 years in a leadership role managing global teams, including offshore operations and third-party providers.

• Strong working knowledge of ERP systems (SAP preferred) and AP automation tools.

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline required; CPA or equivalent certification preferred.

Preferred Skills and Attributes:

• Deep understanding of global AP operations, controls, and compliance requirements.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with experience driving data-based decision-making.

• Exceptional communication and stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence across levels.

• Proven ability to thrive in dynamic, fast-paced, and matrixed environments.

• Strong project management and organizational skills.