Manager Accounts Payable
SEMCO Energy
Port Huron
Job Description
The Accounts Payable (A/P) Manager is responsible for leading and managing the A/P function across all company divisions and subsidiaries of US Utilities. This role oversees the A/P team, invoice processing, expense reimbursements, and the purchasing card program while ensuring robust internal controls and compliance. Additionally, the A/P Manager serves as the subject matter expert for the A/P and expense modules within the company’s ERP system, playing a key role in system upgrades and enhancements.
Success in this role depends on effective cross-departmental collaboration, proactive vendor issue resolution, accurate data reconciliations, and active involvement in strategic initiatives, such as A/P process optimization. Additionally, staying informed on evolving A/P best practices is essential to driving efficiency and compliance.
Tasks and Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the Accounts Payable (A/P) Team across all US Utilities locations, including Michigan, Virginia, Maryland, and DC.
- Supervise, mentor, and develop the A/P team to ensure efficient daily operations.
- Oversee the selection, hiring, and onboarding of Accounts Payable staff, ensuring they receive comprehensive training to maintain efficiency and accuracy in A/P operations.
- Oversee 1099 vendor setup and ensure accurate annual reporting.
- Administer the Expense Management System and purchasing card program.
- Identify and lead A/P optimization projects to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
- Ensure compliance with sales and use tax regulations related to invoicing.
- Identify and implement process improvements using existing and emerging technologies.
- Serve as the A/P subject matter expert for JD Edwards and PeopleSoft, representing A/P in system-related projects.
- Act as a liaison with the Supply Chain team to streamline operations.
- Prepare and present analytical reports and reviews as needed.
- Maintain and update policies and procedures to ensure SOX compliance.
- Provide support for internal and external audits and regulatory inquiries.
- Assist in the resolution of reconciliation variances to maintain financial accuracy.
- Report regularly to Leadership, providing key insights and updates.
Qualifications, Skills and Abilities
- Bachelor’s degree preferred; 4+ years of relevant experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
- Minimum of 7 years of experience in all aspects of the A/P process.
- Experience with enterprise resource planning systems; JD Edwards and PeopleSoft experience is a plus.
- Strong understanding of A/P best practices, internal controls, and related technologies.
- Experience working with auditors and knowledge of compliance requirements.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think strategically and drive effective solutions
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
- Proven ability to build effective relationships across departments.
- Proven track record of successfully leading and supporting project delivery in a complex environment.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Prior management experience is preferred.
