Accounts Payable Manager Duties and Responsibilites

By LeadLake Team   /   Job Category   /   2024
Back to Accounts Payable Manager Job Description

Primary Duty

This job involves acquiring knowledge about accounting best practices while working. It provides exposure to the field of accounting and its various responsibilities. The role includes managing and supervising the accounts payable department and its staff in the organization. This includes overseeing functions such as maintaining the general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and project accounting.

What does a accounting manager do?

The Accounts Payable Manager has the responsibility of managing various functions including general ledger maintenance, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and project accounting.

They are responsible for ensuring that all systems, policies, and procedures are in compliance with company policies and are executed accurately and in a timely manner.

The Accounts Payable Manager also plays a crucial role in efficiently meeting the company's financial obligations and managing the accounts payable process.

What does an accounts payable department do?

The accounts payable department is responsible for managing all invoices received from vendors. They carefully compare these invoices to purchase orders and goods received notes to ensure accuracy and reconcile the data. Additionally, they maintain records of previous payments and credit expenses incurred by the company.

The accounts payable manager or department plays six important roles, which include overseeing invoice management, managing vendor relationships, ensuring timely payments, monitoring cash flow, maintaining accurate financial records, and implementing effective systems and processes. These roles are essential for efficient management of accounts payable.

Administrative Functions

Accounts payable is an essential function within any organization as it directly impacts the financial statements and the overall financial health of the company. It is important to have a well-managed accounts payable department that can effectively handle the company's financial obligations to its suppliers.

By maintaining accurate and up-to-date supplier information, the accounts payable department helps prevent any discrepancies or errors in payments. They also ensure that the company has access to timely and accurate financial data, enabling the organization to make informed decisions and manage its cash flow effectively.

In conclusion, accounts payable departments play a critical role in maintaining accurate financial records and fostering positive relationships with suppliers. The importance of this function should not be underestimated, as it directly affects the overall financial health and success of the company.

Major Role

The Accounts Payable Manager has complete authority for personnel actions and possesses extensive knowledge of department processes.

To qualify for the role of an Accounts Payable Manager, an individual typically needs at least 5 years of experience in a related area as an individual contributor. Additionally, 1 to 3 years of supervisory experience may be required.

The industry sectors that commonly employ Accounts Payable Managers include Retail & Wholesale, Construction, Education, and Government.

Role in Project Management

The Project Accounting Manager is responsible for reviewing monthly project status reports before project reviews.

In addition, they provide support to project leaders in addressing any changes in project scope or timeline, and help resolve any financial issues that may impact project timelines.

The Project Accounting Manager also tracks and analyzes consolidated financial results for all projects.

[Source: Project Accounting Manager Job Description | Salary.com]

Role in Decision-making Process

Accounts payables are recorded as credits, while goods or supplies are recorded as debits. Accounts payables are classified as current liabilities on the balance sheet. The functions performed by accounts payable managers or departments are vital for effectively managing accounts payables.

These roles contribute to the efficient control and management of accounts payables within a company.

How can accounts payable management be simplified?

Improving the management of the accounts payable process in your business can be achieved by gaining a clear understanding of how the process currently functions in your accounts payable department and identifying areas for simplification.

Efficiently managing accounts payable involves understanding and streamlining the existing process to maximize effectiveness and minimize complexity.

Taulia offers resources and guidance on effectively managing accounts payable to help businesses optimize their financial operations.

What makes a good accounts payable department?

Prioritizing accuracy is crucial for the efficient functioning of an accounts payable department. Inaccuracies in data can result in incorrect payments and create potential points of failure in the process. Managing accounts payable effectively requires a strong focus on maintaining accuracy throughout the entire process.

Performance Metrics

The APP2P Network proposes that using the total cost for accounts payable in relation to total revenue can serve as a useful alternative metric for assessing key performance indicators (KPIs). It is important to note that this metric should accurately reflect the objectives of the organization.

A comprehensive guide on how to measure accounts payable performance is provided on the Checkissuing blog, which outlines the top AP KPIs that can be used for this purpose.

How to measure accounts payable performance accurately?

Accurately measuring accounts payable performance requires regular assessment of key performance indicators (KPIs). It is recommended to gauge these KPIs at least every quarter to ensure alignment with project objectives. This enables the identification of areas that may require improvement if necessary.

What are accounts payable metrics & KPIs?

Tracking accounts payable metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs) is crucial for the smooth and profitable operations of the accounts payable department. Our comprehensive guide provides useful insights on how to effectively implement and monitor these KPIs, making the process more streamlined and efficient.

By closely monitoring these metrics and KPIs, businesses can ensure that their accounts payable activities are optimized, leading to improved efficiency and profitability.

Why is my accounts payable productivity Metric low?

A low value for the accounts payable productivity metric can indicate several potential inefficiencies. These may include issues such as poor quality invoices, complicated software interfaces, a large number of invoices requiring manual entry, or excessive staffing within the Accounts Payable Department.