Accounts Payable Manager

Morgan Li LLC; Illinois; On-site; USD 85,000 - 105,000; Full time

Job summary

Morgan Li LLC is seeking an Accounts Payable Manager to lead the AP team and oversee all payables processes. The role focuses on timely payments, internal controls, and accurate vendor data management.

The ideal candidate will drive process improvements, ensure compliance with tax laws, and collaborate with Finance on month-end close. This is an exempt, on-site position based in Illinois.

Qualifications

• Experience leading accounts payable teams and managing AP operations.
• Strong knowledge of vendor master data, 3-way matching, and internal controls.
• Experience with ERP systems and financial reporting.

Responsibilities

• Lead, mentor, and develop the AP team with coaching and performance reviews.
• Oversee day-to-day AP operations, ensuring compliance with policies and internal controls.
• Delegate tasks to ensure timely and accurate processing of invoices, payments, and inquiries.
• Oversee processing of vendor invoices, expense reports, credit memos, and POs; ensure 3-way matching.
• Approve and process payments (checks, ACH, wires) per terms; resolve discrepancies.
• Maintain vendor relationships; manage vendor setup, banking details, and TINs.
• Ensure compliance with tax laws (sales tax, 1099s) and conduct internal audits.
• Prepare periodic AP reports; support month-end close; reconcile vendor statements.
• Pursue process improvements for automation and cost savings.

Job description

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Accounts Payable Manager

Position Status: Exempt

GENERAL PURPOSE OF JOB:

The general purpose of an Accounts Payable Manager is to oversee and manage the organization's accounts payable function, ensuring that all financial obligations to vendors, suppliers, and other creditors are paid accurately and on time. This role is vital for maintaining strong vendor relationships, managing cash flow, and ensuring compliance with internal controls and financial regulations.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Leadership and Team Management:

• Lead, mentor, and develop the AP team, providing guidance, training, and performance evaluations.
• Oversee day-to-day operations of the AP department, ensuring compliance with company policies, accounting standards, and internal controls.
• Delegate tasks effectively and manage workloads to ensure timely and accurate processing of invoices, payments, and vendor inquiries.

Accounts Payable Processing:

• Oversee the accurate and timely processing of vendor invoices, expense reports, credit memos, and purchase orders in the ERP system.
• Ensure proper matching of invoices with purchase orders and receiving reports for three-way matching.
• Approve and process payment runs, including checks, ACH payments, and wire transfers, while ensuring payments are made according to contractual terms.
• Review and resolve discrepancies related to invoices, payments, and vendor accounts.

Vendor Management and Relationships:

• Maintain positive relationships with vendors and suppliers, addressing inquiries, resolving payment disputes, and negotiating terms as needed.
• Ensure proper setup and maintenance of vendor information in the system, including banking details and tax identification numbers (TINs).

Compliance and Internal Controls:

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local tax laws, including sales tax reporting and 1099 filings.
• Implement and enforce robust internal controls and best practices to safeguard company assets and mitigate the risk of fraud.
• Conduct regular audits of accounts payable processes and documentation to ensure accuracy and adherence to company policies.

Reporting and Reconciliation:

• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and year-end reports for management, highlighting AP aging, outstanding payments, and cash flow projections.
• Collaborate with the Finance team to support month-end and year-end close, ensuring accurate accruals and proper expense recognition.
• Reconcile vendor statements to the general ledger, investigating and resolving any discrepancies.

Process Improvement:

• Continuously assess AP processes to identify opportunities for increased efficiency, automation, and cost savings.
• Lead initiatives to improve payment processes, including electronic payments, purchase order systems, and invoice workflows.
• Recommend process improvements or system upgrades to optimize the AP function and integrate with other business systems (ERP, inventory management, etc.).

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES:

• High level of integrity and professionalism.
• Results-oriented with the ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
• Strong analytical mindset with attention to detail and accuracy.
• Ability to think analyze data, balancing long-term vision with day-to-day operational needs.

WORKING CONDITIONS:

• Primarily office-based position, with occasional visits to manufacturing facilities for process improvement or vendor meetings.
• Occasional overtime may be required, particularly during month-end or year-end close.

REASONING ABILITY:

• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and develop staff.
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities, with a keen eye for detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments.
• Analytical mindset, with the ability to troubleshoot issues and provide actionable solutions.
• Ability to manage time effectively, meet deadlines, and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with manufacturing cost structures, inventory systems, and related financial processes is a plus.

LANGUAGE SKILLS:

• English required, Bilingual (English/Spanish) a plus

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE: