Accounts Payable Accountant

Roles and Responsibilities- AP Accountant

Invoice Processing and Validation

• Accurately process and validate invoices received from vendors across the Eastern Hemisphere.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, tax regulations, and regional standards.
• Verify invoice details, including purchase orders (PO), goods receipt notes (GRN), and payment terms.

Data Entry and System Updates

• Input invoice data into the Accounts Payable (AP) system with precision.
• Maintain updated records in the financial system for audit and reporting purposes.
• Vendor Communication
• Liaise with vendors to resolve discrepancies or missing documentation.
• Provide timely updates to vendors regarding payment status and schedules.

Reconciliation

• Perform periodic reconciliations of vendor accounts to ensure accuracy and resolve outstanding issues.
• Address any discrepancies promptly to maintain financial integrity.

Compliance and Reporting

• Adhere to local tax laws, VAT/GST regulations, and other compliance requirements specific to the Eastern Hemisphere.
• Generate periodic reports for management, including aging analysis and invoice status updates.

Collaboration with Cross-Functional Teams

• Work closely with procurement, finance, and operations teams to streamline the AP process.
• Support month-end and year-end closing activities.

Issue Resolution

• Investigate and resolve invoice discrepancies, duplicate payments, or vendor disputes in a timely manner.
• Escalate unresolved issues to management as necessary.

Continuous Improvement

• Identify opportunities to optimize the invoice processing workflow.
• Participate in initiatives to implement automation tools or enhanced AP processes.

Document Management

• Maintain organized records of invoices, payment approvals, and related correspondence for audit readiness.
• Ensure the confidentiality and security of financial data.

Qualifications of an AP Accountant

1. Educational Background

• A degree or diploma in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Certification in accounting or bookkeeping (e.g., CA, or similar) is an added advantage.

2. Work Experience

• 1-5 years of experience in Accounts Payable or a similar finance role.
• Familiarity with invoice processing, vendor management, and financial reconciliations.

3. Technical Skills

• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., SAP, or similar ERP systems).
• Strong knowledge of Microsoft Excel and other Microsoft Office applications.
• Basic understanding of accounting principles, tax regulations, and compliance requirements.

4. Analytical Skills

• Attention to detail and accuracy in processing invoices.
• Ability to identify discrepancies and resolve them promptly.

5. Communication Skills

• Effective verbal and written communication skills to liaise with vendors and internal teams.
• Multilingual capabilities may be advantageous for handling regional vendor communications.

6. Organizational Skills

• Strong time management and organizational abilities to handle high volumes of invoices.
• Ability to prioritize tasks and meet strict deadlines.

7. Knowledge of Regional Regulations

• Understanding of regional tax laws, VAT/GST regulations, and compliance standards applicable in the Eastern Hemisphere.

8. Personal Attributes

• High level of integrity and professionalism in handling financial data.
• Problem-solving mindset with a proactive approach to addressing issues.
• Team player with a collaborative attitude.