Accounts Payable Specialist Lead - Accounting

Summary:

The Accounts Payable (AP) Specialist Lead is responsible for overseeing and optimizing the accounts payable processes to ensure accurate and timely processing of invoices, payments, and reconciliations. Acting as a key point of contact between vendors, internal departments, and the AP team, the AP Lead will play a critical role in maintaining strong controls, improving efficiencies, and supporting AP team members. This role serves as a bridge between AP specialists and management, providing guidance, training, and problem-solving expertise.

Responsibilities:

• Meets expectations of the applicable OneCHRISTUS Competencies: Leader of Self, Leader of Others, or Leader of Leaders.
• Lead and support a team of Accounts Payable professionals, providing guidance, training, and mentoring.
• Assist manager in compiling and preparing reports required by leadership.
• Partner with the AP Managers to create an effective organization while prioritizing functions and routines.
• Address escalated items in a timely and efficiently while multitasking and maintaining a sense of urgency to resolve critical matters.
• Perform daily audits to validate completeness and accuracy of invoices.
• Foster a culture of accountability and demonstrate good teamwork through actions and job performance.
• Manage and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders by ensuring a timely response.
• Demonstrate strong customer service while upholding CHRISTUS Health's core values.
• Provide support for month-end close processes and projects.
• Ensure efficient operation and compliance with CHRISTUS policies, healthcare industry regulations (i.e., HIPAA), and internal controls.
• Coordinate and support internal and external audits.
• Participate in required leadership and development courses.
• Collaborate with colleagues across departments to contribute to a positive work environment.
• Analyze exceptions and resolve internal/external stakeholder concerns.
• Utilize Excel and technology tools effectively to manage spreadsheets, financial software, and automation processes.
• Apply basic accounting knowledge to maintain accurate financial records.
• Adapt to process changes, system upgrades, and evolving business needs with a willingness to learn.
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity when handling sensitive financial information with professionalism and ethical responsibility.
• Manage time effectively to balance daily responsibilities, meet deadlines, and maintain efficiency.
• Effective written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Job Requirements:

Education/Skills

• High School diploma or equivalent required.
• Business, Finance, or Accounting degree preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Bilingual (Spanish/English) is preferred

Experience

• 4+ years of AP or Procurement experience is required.
• Healthcare experience is preferred.
• Infor/Lawson or other large ERP Systems.
• Previous ServiceNow exposure is a plus.

Licenses, Registrations, or Certifications

• The following professional certifications are preferred:
  • APM (Accounts Payable Manager)
  • CAPP (Certified Accounts Payable Professional)
  • CAPA (Certified Accounts Payable Associate)
  • CPA (Certified Public Accountant)
  • APPM (Accredited Procure-to-Pay Manager)

Work Schedule:

5 Days - 8 Hours

Work Type:

Full Time