Payables Accounting Manager

About the role

The role is responsible for providing professional accounting and tax services with a focus on strengthening policies, procedures and internal controls and improving customer service to the college community and external parties. This role works closely with the Assistant Controller providing assistance in the performance of various functions in the financial processing for the college.

Responsibilities

• Manage, supervise and cross-train staff in the areas of accounts payable.
• Manage workload to complete work accurately and within established deadlines.
• Establish goals and objectives, mentor staff, and provide timely feedback to enhance professional development.
• Manage all aspects of the weekly payables process including payments made in various electronic forms and by check.
• Manage all aspects of the expense reporting processes within Workday, including employee reimbursements processed in various electronic forms.
• Manage the monthly, quarterly and annual close process related to payables and liability accounts, ensuring that all transactions are reported timely and accurately and general ledger activity is reconciled accurately and timely.
• Cook up all aspects of the weekly payables process including payments made in various electronic forms and by check.
• Coordinate and process one-off bulk payments for large groups (e.g., stipends, refunds, or event-related disbursements), managing relationships with departments across campus to ensure accurate and timely payment processing.
• Prepare work papers and gather documentation required for audit engagements and tax returns. Coordinate with internal staff and external auditors to meet all deadlines.
• Monitor internal controls and implement improvements to strengthen the effectiveness and efficiency of internal controls.
• Aid in developing and documenting accounting policies and procedures.
• Perform accounting research, document conclusions, and assist in the implementation of new accounting rules and IRS regulations.
• Maintain the integrity of the vendor database working collaboratively with the procurement department.
• Identify and evaluate opportunities to leverage AI and automation tools to improve the efficiency and accuracy of accounts payable processes, such as invoice processing, data validation, and reporting.
• Actively participate in special projects as assigned. Projects may include but are not limited to testing system implementations, upgrades, or enhancements, conducting financial analysis and developing ad hoc reports and process improvement initiatives.
• Other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration or Accounting and a minimum of 3 - 5 years' of progressive responsibility in accounting positions, preferably in a higher education environment.
• Comprehensive knowledge of accounting standards and regulations related to payables applicable to a higher education institution, including IRS, federal, and state.
• Demonstrated supervisory experience with a focus on quality customer service and team leadership and mentoring skills.
• Experience working with ERP (Workday preferred) including electronic invoice and expense management software.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel, with experience using other Microsoft applications.

Qualifications

• Comprehensive knowledge of accounting standards and regulations related to payables applicable to a higher education institution, including IRS, federal, and state.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel, with experience using other Microsoft applications.

Skills

• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of higher education accounting principles and practices.
• Experience with ERP systems (Workday preferred).
• Experience with accounting software and systems.
• Experience with financial statement preparation and tax return preparation.
• Experience with internal controls and auditing.
• Experience with automation and AI tools.

Benefits

The College offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. For more information, please refer to the Benefits at a Glance section on the College's website.

Pay

$88,000 - $93,000 commensurate with experience and qualifications.

Schedule

Weekly Hours: 40
Annual Work Schedule: As per college policy

Application Instructions

An updated resume and cover letter are required as a part of your internal application. In your cover letter, please reflect on how your professional and personal values align with the Mission of the College of the Holy Cross to form individuals of integrity and purpose who are committed to the flourishing of all. To apply, visit this link.