Lead and oversee the end-to-end Accounts Payable function across EMEA, ensuring accurate, timely, and compliant processing of supplier transactions across multiple entities. Drive standardization, internalization of processes, and operational excellence, while managing a distributed AP team and supporting the broader finance transformation agenda.
This role plays a critical part in strengthening financial controls, improving cash management visibility, and supporting scalable growth across EMEA operations.
Key Responsibilities
AP Operations Management
* Oversee the full Accounts Payable cycle across EMEA entities (invoice processing, payments, reconciliations)
* Ensure timely and accurate processing of high invoice volumes across multiple countries and legal entities
* Monitor and manage AP performance KPIs (cycle time, ageing, accuracy, backlog)
* Lead, coach, and develop a regional AP team (local + shared services if applicable)
* Define roles, responsibilities, and service levels within the AP organization
* Foster a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement
Payments & Cash Management
* Oversee payment runs across EMEA ensuring compliance with payment terms and internal approvals
* Partner with Treasury to optimize cash flow planning and supplier payments
Controls, Compliance & Governance
* Ensure compliance with internal policies and procedures and local statutory requirements (incl. VAT)
* Strengthen internal controls across AP processes
* Act as key contact for auditors on AP-related matters
* Lead harmonization and standardization of AP processes across EMEA entities
* Drive transition from outsourced to in-house AP models where applicable
* Identify and implement automation opportunities (ERP workflows, OCR, etc.)
* Act as escalation point for complex vendor issues and internal stakeholders
* Partner with Procurement and Operations to ensure effective three-way matching and purchasing compliance
* Maintain strong relationships with key suppliers
Reporting & Month-End Close
* Oversee AP closing activities (accruals, prepayments, reconciliations)
* Deliver AP ageing, analytics, and insights to senior finance leadership
* Support group reporting and audit requirements in coordination with EMEA finance leadership structures
Qualifications & Experience
* 6–10 years of experience in Accounts Payable / Finance Operations
* Proven experience managing AP in a multinational, multi-entity environment (EMEA scope preferred)
* Experience leading teams (direct + indirect / shared services)
* Strong experience with ERP systems (Oracle NetSuite, SAP, Oracle, etc.)
* Track record in process transformation, insourcing, or shared service center models
* Strong leadership and team management capabilities
* High attention to detail with strong control mindset
* Solid understanding of VAT and local compliance requirements across EMEA
* Process-driven, with focus on standardization and efficiency
* Excellent stakeholder management across Finance, Procurement, and Operations
* Advanced Excel and reporting capabilities
Nice-to-Have
* Experience in data center, infrastructure, or retail / asset-heavy environments
* Exposure to finance transformation programs or ERP implementation
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