Manager, Accounts Payable | University of Chicago (UC) - Military Veterans

Location: Chicago, IL Job Description: Manages the Universitys central accounts payable department responsible for $2.5B in annual payments which includes ensuring appropriate quality procedures are embedded in the accounts payable process. Monitors processes and procedures to maintain the integrity of the internal controls to prevent audit findings and monetary risks to the University, such as fraud, duplicate payments, and penalties for non-compliance. Manages a team of professional level employees responsible for all University accounts payable transactions to ensure completeness, accuracy, and conformity to University policy, IRS regulations, and generally accepted accounting standards. Manages a team of professional level staff responsible for reconciliation of variance accounts, identification of and correction of errors, and ensuring that funds are properly reflected in our systems and properly claimed by our clients. Provides guidance and coordinate with clients (internal campus users and external suppliers) to ensure efficient and accurate payment processing and resolution of discrepancies, including assisting with identifying and reissuance of unclaimed SUA and ACH payments. Conducts periodic compliance audits and resolves any issues raised by internal and external stakeholders. Develops analytical models to identify trends to improve the customer experience, and helps to ensure/improve the overall quality of service delivery. Ensures adherence to University policies and IRS regulations. Assists as requested with the testing of any Accounts Payable system changes related to upgrades and new releases. Supports the Assistant VP, Procurement and Payment Services in identifying and implementing opportunities for continuous improvements in processes, systems, and procedures. Ensures service is delivered with a strong focus on customer satisfaction and in accordance with established Service Level Agreements. Hires, trains, evaluates, leads, and develops the activities of employees who perform the accounts payable and reconciliation roles for the Payment Services organization. Develops and completes departmental goals including identifying and implementing continuous improvement efficiencies. Develops and maintains effective relationships with key stakeholders on campus as well as external constituents. Manages accounts payable processes and reviews work related to verifying invoices, computing discounts, coding expenses, preparing vouchers, and issuing checks for payment. Monitors the day-to-day payments and receipts of bills, as well as the maintenance of accounts payable and receivable ledgers. Performs other related work as needed. Preferred Qualifications Education: Bachelors degree, preferably in accounting, finance, or related area. MBA. Experience: A minimum of seven years of experience in a financial setting with a minimum of 3 years of experience in a supervisory role. Background in a customer service environment. Related business experience with strong emphasis on accounts payable and expense management. Familiarity with administrative processes, procedures, and systems within a university setting. Experience in a not-for-profit higher education institution. Prior experience as a functional user with an ERP system, preferably Oracle Cloud. Certifications: CPA or accounts payable certification. Technical Skills or Knowledge: Proficient in computerized accounting systems, spreadsheet applications and database software. Prokficient with Oracle Cloud Payables Module. Demonstrated ability to use analytical techniques to reconcile financial data and review and process financial documents. Proficiency in the use of spreadsheet and database software. Intermediate to advanced proficiency in the use of Excel, vlookup, pivot tables, etc, and other database software such as Cognos, Tableau, Oracle, etc. Proficiency working with invoice processing platforms and ERP systems such as Oracle, Concur, Basware, or OCR Scanning. Thorough knowledge of accounting principles and accounts payable practices/techniques. Strong personal computer skills, including Microsoft Office Suite and Outlook. Working knowledge of interfaces between accounts payable and other financial systems. Preferred Competencies Demonstrated ability to utilize spreadsheet software and analyze data. High comfort level with performing quantitative analysis, including accuracy and attention to detail. Demonstrated history of balancing multiple priorities and projects simultaneously and adapting to the changing needs of the business with a focus on meeting milestones and deadlines. Demonstrated success in project leadership roles managing competing priorities and building a positive, growth-oriented, team-based environment. Enforce policies and continuously focus on process improvement. Excellent organizational skills with emphasis on detail and follow-through. Project management and proven problem-solving and analytical skills. Participate as a team player and positively influence group activity. Maintain strictest confidentiality when working with sensitive information. Exceptional communication skills to create an atmosphere in which information flows smoothly through the organization in a timely manner. Develop opportunities and cross-training throughout the Procurement and Payment Services organization. Excellent listening skills with the ability to empathize and focus on client service. Work with minimal supervision. Open to change, adapts, and works effectively in a variety of situations, with individuals or groups. Engagement - foster relationships by hearing, recognizing, and valuing others. Communication - open to receiving ideas from diverse viewpoints and communicate messages so that they are universally understood. Productivity - generate results that moves the University of Chicago toward achieving its goals. Accountability - a clear sense of ownership and take personal responsibility for actions. Adaptability - respond to changes willingly and recognize when to adjust based on the situation. Application Documents Resume/CV (required) Cover Letter (required) References Contact Information (3)(required) The University of Chicago is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity/Disabled/Veterans Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, status as an individual with a disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination. Staff Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via the Applicant Inquiry Form. The University of Chicago's Annual Security & Fire Safety Report (Report) provides information about University offices and programs that provide safety support, crime and fire statistics, emergency response and communications plans, and other policies and information. The Report can be accessed online at: securityreport.uchicago.edu. Paper copies of the Report are available, upon request, from the University of Chicago Police Department, 850 E. 61st Street, Chicago, IL 60637.