Associate

SmartStream; Hinoba-an; On-site; PHP 335,000 - 670,000; Full time

Job summary

SmartStream in the Philippines is seeking an Associate to ensure timely and accurate processing of invoices, monitor outstanding invoices, and support backlog reduction. You will collaborate with internal teams, clients, and external stakeholders to resolve issues and maintain SLA adherence.

The ideal candidate is detail-oriented with strong Excel skills, experience in Accounts Payable or Finance Operations, and a passion for process improvement and automation.

Qualifications

• Experience in Accounts Payable or Finance Operations preferred.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical skills.
• Proficient in Excel and reporting.
• Ability to identify improvements and automate processes.

Responsibilities

• Monitor invoice aging reports to close pending invoices.
• Escalate invoice processing issues to minimize delays.
• Ensure SLA adherence and operational performance targets.
• Support backlog reduction initiatives and workload planning.
• Deliver reports and dashboards using Excel.
• Mentor teammates and share process improvements.

Skills

Invoice Processing

Accounts Payable

SLA Monitoring

Backlog Management

Process Improvement

Automation Opportunities

Stakeholder Management

Excel Proficiency

Data Analysis

VBA / Macros

Tools

Advanced MS Excel

VBA / Macros

Data Analysis Tools

Reporting

Job description

As an Associate, you will be responsible for ensuring the timely and accurate processing of invoices, monitoring outstanding invoices, managing escalations, and supporting backlog reduction initiatives. You will work closely with internal teams, clients, and external stakeholders to resolve issues, maintain SLA adherence, and deliver a high level of operational excellence.

The role requires a detail-oriented professional with strong analytical and communication skills who can identify process improvement opportunities, support automation initiatives, and contribute to improving overall process efficiency. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience in Accounts Payable, Invoice Processing, or Finance Operations environments will be an advantage.

If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, enjoy solving operational challenges, and are passionate about continuous improvement, we'd love to hear from you.

• Monitor invoice outstandings and aging reports to ensure timely closure of pending invoices.
• Manage and escalations of invoice processing issues proactively to minimize delays and business impact.
• Ensure adherence to defined SLAs and consistently achieve operational performance targets.
• Support invoice processing planning, workload management, and backlog reduction initiatives.
• Conduct regular team meetings and provide constructive feedback to team members.
• Drive process improvement and efficiency initiatives, including implementation of system or process enhancements.
• Identify automation opportunities to reduce manual efforts and improve productivity.
• Analyze root causes of non-STP (Straight Through Processing) invoices and recommend corrective actions.
• Collaborate with production teams to understand operational challenges and communicate key issues to management.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, external counterparties, and internal stakeholders.
• Prepare and maintain reports, dashboards, and operational metrics using Excel.
• Support training, mentoring, and development of team members.
• Stay updated on industry trends, best practices, and process developments.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, code of conduct, and HR guidelines.

Required Skills & Competencies

Functional Skills

• Invoice Processing and Accounts Payable Operations
• Invoice Aging & Outstanding Management
• Escalation Management
• SLA Monitoring and Compliance
• Backlog Management
• Process Improvement & Operational Efficiency
• Root Cause Analysis
• Stakeholder Management

Technical Skills

• Advanced MS Excel (Pivot Tables, VLOOKUP/XLOOKUP, Formulas, Reporting)
• VBA / Excel Macros (preferred)
• Data Analysis and Reporting
• Process Automation Exposure
• Knowledge of Straight Through Processing (STP) concepts

Soft Skills

• Strong Communication and Presentation Skills
• Client and Vendor Relationship Management
• Team Collaboration and Leadership
• Problem-Solving and Analytical Thinking
• Planning and Organizational Skills
• Ability to Influence and Drive Change
• Coaching and Mentoring Ability
• Attention to Detail and Time Management

Business Knowledge

• Understanding of Accounts Payable / Invoice Lifecycle Processes
• Knowledge of SG business operations (preferred)
• Understanding of audit, compliance, and governance requirements
• Awareness of industry trends and operational best practices

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Experience in Accounts Payable, Invoice Processing, Shared Services, Finance Operations, or BPO/KPO environments.
• Strong Excel and reporting capabilities.
• Proven experience in managing invoice backlogs, escalations, and SLA-driven operations.
• Demonstrated ability to identify and implement process improvements and automation opportunities.
• Excellent stakeholder management and team collaboration skills.