Accounts Payable Director: Lead, Automate & Optimize Payments

Vaco; Westwood (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Vaco is seeking an Accounts Payable leader in Westwood, CA to manage and mentor the AP team and oversee the full-cycle AP process with a focus on accuracy, compliance, and timely payments.

You will partner with Accounting, Procurement, Treasury and Finance to support month-end close, drive ERP upgrades, and push automation to improve efficiency and vendor experience. The role also interfaces with executive leadership to uphold SOX controls where applicable.

Responsibilities

• Lead the day-to-day operations of the Accounts Payable department
• Manage, mentor, and develop an AP team, including managers, supervisors, and specialists
• Oversee the full-cycle accounts payable process, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely vendor payments
• Develop and implement AP policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Drive process improvements and automation initiatives to increase efficiency
• Partner with Accounting, Procurement, Treasury, and Finance to support month-end and year-end close activities
• Review and approve high-value payments, wire transfers, ACH payments, and check runs
• Monitor AP aging, payment schedules, and cash flow requirements
• Ensure compliance with company policies, GAAP, sales tax, and 1099 reporting requirements
• Manage vendor relationships and resolve complex payment discrepancies and escalated issues
• Lead ERP implementations, system upgrades, and AP automation projects when applicable
• Prepare and present AP metrics, KPIs, and reporting to executive leadership
• Support internal and external audits and ensure compliance with SOX controls when applicable
• Identify opportunities to reduce costs, improve workflows, and enhance the vendor experience

Job description

Vaco is seeking an Accounts Payable leader in Westwood, CA to manage and mentor the AP team and oversee the full-cycle AP process with a focus on accuracy, compliance, and timely payments.

You will partner with Accounting, Procurement, Treasury and Finance to support month-end close, drive ERP upgrades, and push automation to improve efficiency and vendor experience. The role also interfaces with executive leadership to uphold SOX controls where applicable.