Manager/Senior Manager - Accounts Payable

Description:
The Manager / Senior Manager Accounts Payable will be responsible for leading the end-to-end Accounts Payable (AP) function, ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant processing of vendor payments, expense accounting, and statutory obligations. The role demands strong leadership, deep technical accounting knowledge, SAP expertise, and the ability to manage large-scale AP operations in a high-volume, high-value transaction environment. The incumbent will work closely with senior finance leadership and cross-functional stakeholders to ensure operational excellence, cost control, and strong internal governance.

Key Responsibilities:
End-to-End Accounts Payable Operations:
- Oversee the complete Accounts Payable lifecycle including vendor invoice processing, three-way matching, payment processing, advances, accruals, and reconciliations.
- Ensure timely and accurate booking of vendor invoices in compliance with accounting standards and internal policies.
- Manage high-volume AP transactions efficiently while maintaining accuracy and turnaround time (TAT).
- Review and approve payment runs, ensuring adherence to payment terms and cash flow plans.

Vendor & Stakeholder Management:
- Act as the primary point of contact for critical and high-value vendors.
- Ensure timely resolution of vendor queries, discrepancies, and disputes.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with vendors to ensure smooth operations and uninterrupted supply/services.
- Coordinate with Procurement, Supply Chain, Operations, Legal, and Treasury teams for seamless AP processes.

SAP & Systems Expertise (Mandatory):
- Hands-on experience in SAP (mandatory) for Accounts Payable operations.
- Ensure correct accounting, validations, and controls within SAP AP modules.
- Drive process automation, system controls, and continuous improvement initiatives within SAP.
- Coordinate with IT / SAP functional teams for system enhancements, issue resolution, and upgrades.

Team Leadership & People Management:
- Lead, manage, and develop a team of approximately 8 Accounts Payable professionals.
- Allocate responsibilities, define KPIs, and monitor individual and team performance.
- Conduct regular performance reviews, coaching sessions, and skill development initiatives.
- Foster a culture of accountability, process discipline, and continuous improvement within the team.

Compliance, Audit & Controls:
- Ensure compliance with statutory requirements including GST, TDS, and other applicable laws related to AP.
- Manage month-end, quarter-end, and year-end closing activities related to Accounts Payable.
- Support internal audits, statutory audits, and tax audits by providing timely data and explanations.
- Strengthen internal controls to prevent fraud, duplicate payments, and non-compliance.
- Balance conformation and Vendor reconciliation of half yearly basis.

Financial Control & MIS Reporting:
- Prepare and review periodic MIS reports related to AP aging, vendor balances, overdue payments, and cash outflows.
- Analyze trends, identify process gaps, and recommend corrective actions to senior management.
- Provide accurate inputs for cash flow forecasting and working capital management.
- Present key AP metrics and insights to the VP Finance on a regular basis.

Process Improvement & Cost Optimization:
- Identify opportunities to streamline AP processes and reduce manual intervention.
- Implement best practices and standard operating procedures (SOPs) across AP functions.
- Drive cost optimization initiatives related to payment cycles, vendor terms, and operational efficiencies.

Eligibility Criteria:
Educational Qualification: Qualified Chartered Accountant (CA) Mandatory

Experience:
- Minimum 3+ years of post-qualification experience in Accounts Payable / Finance roles.
- Experience in handling AP operations in large organizations with turnover exceeding 1,750 Crores.
- Candidates from any industry meeting the turnover criteria are preferred.

Technical & Functional Skills:
- SAP (mandatory) strong hands-on experience in AP modules and reporting.
- Strong knowledge of AP processes, Vendor accounting, GST, TDS, and statutory compliance.
- Good understanding of accounting standards and financial controls.
- Advanced proficiency in MS Excel and financial reporting tools.

People Management:
- Proven experience in handling and leading a team of around 8 resources.
- Strong leadership, coaching, and team development capabilities.