Lead Accounts Payable

Gateway Mechanical Services Inc.; Edmonton; On-site; CAD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Gateway Mechanical Services Inc. is seeking a Lead Accounts Payable professional to drive process improvements, mentor a high-performing AP team, and ensure accuracy and efficiency across the function.

You will lead the AP operations, oversee invoices and payments, and partner with Finance, Operations, and vendors to strengthen internal controls and reporting. This role suits someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive Accounts Payable experience.
• Leadership or supervisory experience in Accounts Payable.
• Post-secondary education in Accounting, Finance, or related field is an asset.
• Strong understanding of Canadian tax regulations and AP compliance requirements.
• Experience managing vendor relationships and resolving escalated issues.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Accounts Payable function and mentor a high-performing team.
• Oversee invoice processing and payment activities to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
• Lead the month-end close and ensure accruals are recorded properly.
• Review expense reports for accuracy and policy compliance.
• Monitor AP metrics and provide insights to improve operational excellence.

Skills

Leadership

Excel

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Post-secondary education in Accounting/Finance

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Financial systems

Job description

At Gateway Mechanical Services, we're not looking for someone to simply manage accounts payable. We're looking for a Lead Accounts Payable professional who thrives on improving processes, building strong relationships, and creating efficiencies that make a real impact.

This is an opportunity for a forward-thinking AP leader who enjoys rolling up their sleeves, challenging the status quo, and helping shape the future of our finance operations. You'll be the go-to expert for all things Accounts Payable, leading a high-performing team while driving innovation, accuracy, and exceptional service across the organization.

If you're passionate about continuous improvement, love turning chaos into streamlined processes, and enjoy mentoring others to achieve their best, we'd love to meet you.

What You'll Be Doing

Lead the Future of Accounts Payable

• Champion process improvements that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and scalability across the AP function.
• Identify opportunities to streamline workflows, leverage technology, and eliminate manual processes.
• Bring a continuous improvement mindset and turn great ideas into measurable results.

Be the AP Subject Matter Expert

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all Accounts Payable inquiries from internal teams, vendors, and external stakeholders.
• Resolve complex AP issues with confidence, professionalism, and a customer-first approach.
• Build strong partnerships across Finance, Operations, and external vendor networks.
• Lead the month-end close process, ensuring invoices are recorded in the appropriate accounting period and accruals are accurately captured.
• Oversee invoice processing and payment activities to ensure accuracy, timeliness, and compliance.
• Conduct comprehensive reviews of payment runs to safeguard financial controls and ensure regulatory compliance.
• Review expense reports for accuracy, policy compliance, and appropriate approvals.
• Monitor key AP metrics and provide insights that support operational excellence.

Develop and Inspire Others

• Lead, coach, and mentor a team of Accounts Payable professionals.
• Foster a collaborative, accountable, and service-oriented culture.
• Support team development through guidance, training, and performance coaching.

Strengthen Controls and Best Practices

• Maintain and improve AP policies, procedures, and documentation.
• Ensure strong internal controls are in place while balancing efficiency and service delivery.
• Support audits and compliance initiatives as required.

What You Bring

Experience & Knowledge

• 5+ years of progressive Accounts Payable experience.
• Previous leadership, supervisory, or team lead experience within Accounts Payable.
• Post-secondary education in Accounting, Finance, or a related field is considered an asset.
• Strong understanding of Canadian tax regulations and AP compliance requirements.
• Experience managing vendor relationships and resolving escalated issues effectively.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Excel and financial systems.

Skills & Attributes

• Natural leader with a passion for coaching, mentoring, and developing talent.
• Exceptional organizational, planning, and prioritization skills.
• Results-driven with a strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• Analytical mindset with a passion for continuous improvement.
• Highly detail-oriented with a commitment to accuracy.
• Strong communicator who can confidently engage with all levels of the organization.
• Customer-focused and relationship-driven.
• Thrives in fast-paced, high-volume environments.
• Able to work independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams.

Why You'll Love This Opportunity

• Make a visible impact on how our AP function operates and evolves.
• Lead meaningful process improvements that drive business success.
• Work alongside a collaborative team that values innovation and fresh thinking.
• Grow your leadership skills while mentoring and developing others.
• Join a company where your ideas, expertise, and initiative truly matter.