Accounts Payable Specialist

WPP; Tampa (FL); Hybrid; USD 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

The Food Group is seeking a detail-oriented Accounts Payable (AP) Specialist to join our finance team in the Tampa Bay area. You will process, verify, and reconcile vendor invoices, ensuring timely payments and accurate records, while building strong vendor relationships.

We value analytical thinkers with solid accounting knowledge and a commitment to accuracy. This hybrid role requires two in-office days per week and offers opportunities to streamline AP processes and support audits.

Qualifications

• 2 years of dedicated accounts payable or general accounting experience.
• Solid understanding of basic accounting principles.
• Experience with 3-way matching (POs, receipts, invoices).
• Ability to manage vendor relationships and perform timely payments.

Responsibilities

• Review, code, and process vendor invoices and expense reports.
• Match invoices to purchase orders and receiving docs.
• Process electronic transfers, ACHs, wires, and checks per schedules.
• Investigate discrepancies and resolve with vendors/internal teams.
• Maintain vendor profiles, W-9s, direct deposit details, and contact data.
• Assist in annual 1099 filing and reporting.
• Reconcile AP sub-ledger to GL during month-end close.
• Monitor payments to prevent late fees and cash-flow issues.
• Support internal/external audits with required docs and records.
• Identify process improvements for AP efficiency.

Skills

Attention to Detail

Analytical Thinking

Time Management

Communication

Education

Associate's degree in Accounting

Bachelor's degree in Accounting/Finance/Business Administration

High School Diploma or GED with related experience

Tools

Workday

NetSuite

QuickBooks

SAP

Sage

Microsoft Dynamics

Bill.com

Tipalti

Concur

AvidXchange

Job description

Driven by creativity and backed by the global reach of WPP, The Food Group fosters a vibrant, team-oriented environment where precision and culture go hand-in-hand. We0re excited to expand our finance team with a detail-oriented, organized, and dependable Accounts Payable (AP) Specialist. As an essential contributor to our financial health, you will be responsible for processing, verifying, and reconciling invoices, ensuring seamless vendor payments, and maintaining precise financial records. If you bring strong analytical skills, a firm grasp of core accounting principles, and a passion for building great vendor relationships, we love to hear from you!

Applicant must reside in the Tampa Bay Area

Hybrid in office two (2) days a week

Job Summary

We are seeking a detail-oriented, organized, and dependable Accounts Payable (AP) Specialist to join our finance team. In this role, you will be responsible for processing, verifying, and reconciling invoices, ensuring timely payments to vendors, and maintaining accurate financial records. The ideal candidate possesses strong analytical skills, a solid understanding of basic accounting principles, and a commitment to maintaining positive vendor relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Review, code, and process incoming vendor invoices, check requests, and expense reports in compliance with internal controls and approval limits.
• Match invoices with purchase orders (POs) and receiving documentation (3-way matching) to ensure accurate billing.
• Prepare and process electronic transfers, ACH payments, wire transfers, and physical checks according to payment schedules.
• Identify and resolve invoice discrepancies, duplicate billings, or missing documentation by communicating with vendors and internal departments.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for vendor inquiries regarding payment status, statement reconciliation, and account adjustments.
• Maintain vendor profiles, ensuring tax identification forms (W-9s), direct deposit details, and contact information are current and compliant.
• Assist in preparing annual 1099 filing and reporting requirements.
• Reconcile vendor statements monthly to ensure all liabilities are recorded accurately.
• Perform monthly AP sub-ledger to general ledger reconciliations during the month-end closing process.
• Monitor accounts to ensure payments are up to date and flag potential cash flow issues or late payment penalties.
• Compliance & Process Improvement
• Ensure compliance with internal financial controls, company policies, and external accounting standards (GAAP).
• Assist with internal and external audit requests by gathering necessary documentation and payment records.
• Identify opportunities to streamline accounts payable processes and improve operational efficiency.
• Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements Education

Education

An associate's degree or Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration is preferred (High School Diploma/GED required with equivalent work experience).

Experience: 2 years of dedicated accounts payable or general accounting experience.

Technical Skills

Proficiency with accounting ERP systems (e.g., Workday, NetSuite, QuickBooks, SAP, Sage, or Microsoft Dynamics). Intermediate to advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (vlookups, pivot tables, basic formulas). Familiarity with automated AP systems (e.g., Bill.com, Tipalti, Concur, and AvidXchange) is a plus.

Soft Skills & Core Competencies

Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy in data entry and numerical processing. Problem-Solving: Ability to investigate and resolve billing discrepancies effectively. Communication: Strong written and verbal communication skills for vendor interactions and internal cross-departmental coordination.

Time Management: Excellent organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks and meet strict, tight deadlines.

Integrity: Strong commitment to maintaining confidentiality and ethical accounting standards.

Work Environment & Physical Demands

Hybrid work environment. Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer. Occasional lifting of light files or audit documentation (up to 15 lbs).

How We Hire

We believe the interview process is an opportunity to learn about each other and if there is a cultural and personality fit. To that end, you can expect approximately three conversational-style interview rounds with cross-functional team members. Additionally, well conduct a portfolio review and a skills assignment, where we get to learn more about you.

Diversity & Inclusion

Diversity and difference power creativity, and our peoples creativity is our greatest advantage. Our mission is to build and foster an inclusive culture of belonging at The Food Group and across WPP—a culture where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and respected and is given an equal opportunity to thrive.

Disclaimer

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this job. It is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified.