Senior Manager Accounting Operations - The Panther Group

Senior Manager of Accounting Operations.

• will oversee the Accounts Payable (AP) and Accounts Receivable (AR) functions
• seeking an influential strategic leader, with exceptional analytical skills, and the ability to effectively manage both processes and a team. The Senior Manager will continuously evaluate, improve and enhance departmental processes, striving to improve quality, productivity and efficiency.

Position Responsibilities:
Leadership & Team Development:

• Lead and mentor direct reports, including the Collections Manager, AP Manager and Accounting Specialist, offering strategic guidance on high-level projects while ensuring overall effectiveness and efficiency of the department
• Manage the training and integration of new team members, identifying opportunities for promotion or professional growth
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal and external clients, promptly addressing any AP or AR issues as they arise

Financial Oversight:

• Work directly with the Collections Manager to review accounts receivable aging reports, monitoring overdue balances and tracking collection efforts and application of client payments
• Oversee the invoice and payment processes, working with the AP Manager, ensuring effective management of team workflows and clear, consistent communication
• Analyze trends and provide actionable insights to improve Firm financial performance on client collections
• Establish goals and KPIs for the AP and AR functions, regularly monitoring progress and providing weekly reporting to key stakeholders
• Manage the month-end close process for A/P and A/R functions, ensuring thorough and accurate reconciliations of related accounts

Process Improvement & Compliance:

• Identify and execute strategic process enhancements and industry best practices to optimize the efficiency and effectiveness of the accounts receivable and payable operations
• Develop and maintain policies and procedures for AP and AR, providing ongoing to ensure compliance with standard operating procedures
• Establish and execute communication plans for Firm-wide processes or procedural changes
• Conduct annual reviews to establish priorities and goals for the AP and AR teams, aligning their objectives with the Firm’s strategic plan and overall direction Accounting and Finance groups

Audit & Compliance:

• Ensure timely fulfilment of all audit requirements pertaining to accounts payable and receivable requests
• Work with the AP management team on vendor W-9 documentation, annual 1099 reporting, unclaimed property review and reporting

Technology and Innovation:

• Leverage technology and automation to streamline processes and reduce manual work
• Stay updated on industry best practices and integrate them into departmental operations

Skills & Competencies:

• Experience in managing a full-cycle high volume accounts payable and accounts receivables teams, with a track record of proven leadership and implementing process improvements
• Demonstrate exceptional organizational, time management and execution skills

• Analytical skills and a basic understanding of accounting principles
• Proven ability to be self-motivated, proactive, resourceful, work well under strict deadlines and exhibit a team player attitude
• Ability to analyze/interpret data and take appropriate action
• Exhibit strong leadership and initiative, fostering positive relationships and effective communication across all levels of the organization
• Possess sound judgment and strong decision-making abilities, with excellent interpersonal skills and the capability to express ideas clearly and concisely, both in writing and verbally
• Skilled in delivering constructive feedback to foster career development and professional growth
• Experience in developing and documenting policies and procedures, as well as managing implementations and process solutions
• Be a leader who can act, lead and operate independently with minimal daily direction to accomplish objectives

Qualifications & Required Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting required with at least 10 years of experience in accounting operations, with a focus on AP and AR
• Experience managing a full-cycle high-volume accounts payable team with proven leadership and process improvement skills
• Position also requires the ability to work under pressure to meet strict deadlines

Software Skills:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be proficient in the following software:

• Experience with Elite financial system (Enterprise or 3E) or other major accounting software
• Experience with Chrome River and collections software (preferred)
• Excellent Microsoft Excel and Word skills required

Compensation Range: $145,000/yr. to $160,000/yr.