AP Lead

Location: Mount Prospect
Posted on: June 23, 2025

Job Description:

AP Lead Accountant $85,000 to $95,000 Position Summary: The AP Lead Accountant is responsible for managing the full-cycle accounts payable process and supporting key financial close activities. This role ensures timely, accurate invoice processing and payment disbursement, maintains vendor relationships, and actively contributes to the month-end close process. The AP Lead will also coordinate with cross-functional teams, assist in financial reporting, and support internal controls and compliance efforts. Key Responsibilities: Lead the daily operations of the Accounts Payable team, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in invoice processing and payment execution. Review and approve payment batches, ensuring appropriate documentation and coding. Monitor AP aging reports and vendor reconciliations; resolve discrepancies with vendors and internal teams. Oversee employee expense processing and ensure adherence to company travel & expense policies. Maintain and update vendor master records in compliance with internal controls. Assist with 1099 reporting and year-end tax documentation. Participate in month-end close activities , including: Accruals for unbilled expenses Journal entries related to AP and prepaids Account reconciliations for AP-related general ledger accounts Analysis of AP balances and variances for reporting Support external audits and ensure compliance with SOX/internal control requirements. Identify and implement process improvements, automation initiatives, and best practices in AP. Train, mentor, and support junior AP staff to promote operational efficiency and development. Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field. 4-6 years of progressive AP experience, with at least 2 years in a lead or supervisory role. Strong knowledge of US GAAP and financial close processes. Hands-on experience with monthly close duties (accruals, reconciliations, journal entries). Proficient in ERP systems such as SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, or Microsoft Dynamics. Intermediate to advanced Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP, etc.). Strong organizational and analytical skills, with attention to detail. Ability to prioritize tasks and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Preferred Qualifications: Experience in a multi-entity or shared services environment. Familiarity with AP automation tools and expense systems (e.g., Concur, Tipalti). Understanding of SOX compliance and internal controls. Prior involvement in process documentation and system implementations.

Keywords: , Downers Grove , AP Lead, Accounting, Auditing , Mount Prospect, Illinois