Description

Accounts payable (A/P) administrators are responsible for the daily management of staff in the accounting department for a business. Their staff members can include accounts payable clerks and bookkeepers. They ensure the accuracy and timeliness of processes and payments. They are also responsible for ensuring compliance with federal and state government requirements. At times, they serve as a liaison for outside vendors, corresponding with them and responding to their inquiries.

Accounts payable managers prepare annual reporting and daily, weekly and monthly analysis and reconciliations. They may have to resolve discrepancies where they exist. They work closely with the purchasing departments, management, and the accounting departments they oversee. They typically work in an office environment on a normal Monday through Friday work week with standard business hours. They may, however, be required to work additional hours during peak accounting times, such as the end of year and tax seasons.

Accounts payable administrators may work in a wide variety of industries: They can be employed in the public or private sector, across all areas of government, as well as large and small private companies. Typically these companies require a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in accounting, business, finance, or a related field for an accounts payable manager. Several years of work experience is also usually required. Aside from those requirements, accounts payable administrators need to have a strong basis and understanding of accounting concepts, an advanced aptitude in spreadsheet software and excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

Roles & Responsibilities

With over 9 years of experience as an Accounts Payable A/P Administrator in Canada, your main responsibilities include:

  • Process and review invoices, ensuring accuracy and adherence to company policies and procedures. Thoroughly review and validate invoices, verifying their accuracy and compliance with organizational guidelines.
  • Manage vendor accounts, including reconciliation, resolving discrepancies, and addressing payment issues. Monitor and maintain vendor accounts, ensuring timely reconciliation, resolving any discrepancies, and addressing payment-related concerns.
  • Coordinate with internal departments and external stakeholders to resolve invoice and payment inquiries. Collaborate with various teams and external parties to address and resolve inquiries related to invoices and payments.
  • Prepare financial reports and analyze accounts payable data to support budgeting and forecasting processes.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Accounts Payable (A/P) Administrator, the following qualifications are required:

  • Proficient knowledge of accounting principles and practices to accurately process invoices, expense reports, and payments.
  • Attention to detail and strong numerical abilities to ensure accuracy in data entry and reconciliation of accounts.
  • Familiarity with accounting software (eg, QuickBooks, SAP) and proficiency in using spreadsheets for data analysis and reporting.
  • Strong problem-solving skills to identify and resolve discrepancies, including investigating and reconciling vendor statements and invoices.

Essential Skills For Accounts Payable (A/P) Administrator

1

Accounting Fundamentals

2

Financial Management

3

Cost Accounting

4

Accounting

Skills That Affect Accounts Payable (A/P) Administrator Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Accounting

2%

Payment Management

2%

Career Prospects

The role of an Accounts Payable A/P Administrator with 9+ years of experience in Canada is crucial for efficient financial operations. For professionals in this field, here are four alternative roles to consider:

  • Senior Accountant: A position with broader responsibilities, including financial reporting and ensuring compliance with regulations.
  • Treasury Manager: A role focused on managing an organization's cash flow, including forecasting, risk management, and investment activities.
  • Procurement Manager: A position involving supplier relationship management, contract negotiation, and oversight of purchasing processes.
  • Financial Analyst: A role centered around monitoring financial performance, developing forecasts, and providing insights to support strategic decision-making.

How to Learn

According to recent data from Google, the projected growth of the Accounts Payable (A/P) Administrator role in Canada is positive. Market analysis indicates a consistent demand for this position with no signs of decline over the past 10 years. This trend is expected to continue, creating a promising job market for A/P Administrators in the future. The employment opportunities in this field are estimated to increase steadily, providing potential candidates with a stable and in-demand career option.