ACCOUNTS PAYABLE ANALYST SR

General Summary:

The Merchandise Payables Senior Analyst is responsible for overseeing complex merchandise payables processes to ensure accuracy, compliance, and operational efficiency. This role serves as the primary escalation point for complex vendor and system issues, performs advanced analysis, and leads process improvement initiatives. The Senior Analyst partners closely with internal stakeholders, supports system enhancements, and assists the Senior Manager with mentoring, training, and special projects. This role operates with a high degree of autonomy and judgment and is expected to independently resolve complex issues and lead initiatives impacting the broader Merchandise Payables function.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Own and resolve complex merchandise payables issues by performing advanced analysis, identifying root causes, and partnering with internal teams and vendors to implement corrective actions.
• Lead process improvement initiatives, system enhancements, special projects, and workflow optimization efforts across Merchandise Payables.
• Perform and oversee account reconciliations (vendor statements, DC/store activity) with a high level of accuracy to ensure timely issue resolution. 
• Oversee transaction generator entries and support month-end close activities to ensure accurate financial reporting.
• Train, mentor, and support team members by providing guidance on best practices, problem resolution, and system usage.
• Support testing, validation, and implementation of system changes and enhancements critical to Merchandise Payables operations.
• Develop, recommend, and maintain internal controls and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to prevent payment errors and improve consistency.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities (KSAs):

• Advanced knowledge of accounting principles related to accounts payable, reconciliations, journal entries, and internal controls.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and drive actionable insights.
• Demonstrated ability to independently manage complex workloads, prioritize competing demands, and meet deadlines.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to train, mentor, and influence others.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel; experience with databases, reporting tools, and ERP systems preferred  High attention to detail with the ability to balance payment accuracy, financial integrity, and inventory impacts.

Work Experience &/or Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business, or a related field required.
• A minimum of 3–5 years of progressively responsible experience in accounts payable, merchandise payables, or a related financial role preferred.
• Experience with ERP systems and reporting tools (e.g., Lawson, Oracle, AS400/Island Pacific, WebFocus, 1010data) is preferred; Alteryx experience is a plus.