Global AP Operations & Process Manager

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Global AP Operations & Process Manager based in the United States.

This is a strategic finance operations leadership role focused on transforming and scaling Accounts Payable and Procure-to-Pay processes across a complex <organization.You> will lead the centralization and standardization of workflows while balancing business needs with strong financial controls and operational governance.The role combines AP operations, payment management, systems ownership, process optimization, and technology <innovation.You> will work closely with outsourcing partners, suppliers, IT, procurement, accounting, and cross-functional business teams to resolve complex operational challenges.A key part of the role will be optimizing SAP and Coupa environments while leveraging automation, AI, OCR, and intelligent matching <technologies.You> will establish meaningful operational KPIs, improve efficiency and scalability, and proactively identify opportunities to reduce risk and eliminate manual work.This opportunity is well suited to an autonomous finance operations professional who enjoys turning complex or fragmented processes into scalable, high-performing systems.

Accountabilities

Lead the end-to-end centralization and stabilization of diverse business verticals within a standardized Procure-to-Pay framework.

Design, map, and implement unified invoice ingestion, approval, and payment workflows across newly integrated or decentralized business areas.

Partner with cross-functional leaders to understand departmental requirements while ensuring alignment with corporate financial controls and governance standards.

Oversee global Accounts Payable and payment operations, establishing and monitoring performance standards for accuracy, cycle time, efficiency, and supplier satisfaction.

Take ownership of complex payment exceptions and investigate the root causes of banking, settlement, integration, and technical failures, driving permanent resolutions.

Manage corporate virtual card operations with a focus on maximizing rebates, strengthening financial controls, improving security, and optimizing working capital.

Serve as the functional business owner for core Procure-to-Pay systems, including SAP and Coupa, and drive their ongoing transition, optimization, and integration.

Partner with IT, Engineering, and software vendors to troubleshoot system defects, implement enhancements, and resolve critical technical issues through to completion.

Identify and implement AI-powered solutions such as automated invoice processing, intelligent matching, fraud detection, OCR, and workflow automation to increase operational scalability.

Continuously assess existing AP and P2P processes to eliminate inefficiencies, automate repetitive activities, reduce operational risk, and establish lean operating models.

Develop scalable process documentation, operational playbooks, governance standards, and controls that support consistent execution across business functions.

Establish, monitor, and communicate advanced operational KPIs that provide visibility into performance, bottlenecks, service quality, and improvement opportunities.

Collaborate with outsourcing partners and offshore service providers to maintain high-quality, accurate, and timely AP processing and service delivery.

Act as a strategic internal consultant, helping leadership and functional teams navigate operational challenges and build sustainable solutions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, a related field, or equivalent practical experience.

At least 7 years of progressive experience in Procure-to-Pay, Accounts Payable management, finance operations, or a closely related discipline.

At least 7 years of hands-on experience utilizing, configuring, and implementing SAP.

At least 5 years of experience managing Accounts Payable operations and offshore vendor relationships, with responsibility for service quality, accuracy, and operational efficiency.

Strong experience with P2P workflows, AP operations, payment processes, financial controls, and operational governance.

Experience configuring, implementing, and optimizing Coupa Procure-to-Pay environments is strongly preferred.

Demonstrated ability to operate with a high degree of autonomy, set strategic priorities, manage complex initiatives, and drive cross-functional alignment without direct oversight.

Proven ability to take fragmented, ambiguous, or inefficient processes and transform them into standardized, scalable, and compliant operating frameworks.

Experience partnering with IT, Engineering, technology vendors, procurement, accounting, and business stakeholders to resolve complex systems and process issues.

Practical understanding of AI, automation, OCR, intelligent matching, or similar technologies and their application to finance operations is preferred.

Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, with the ability to identify root causes and develop sustainable solutions.

Exceptional attention to detail combined with strong communication, stakeholder management, and interpersonal skills.

Ability to manage multiple competing priorities in a dynamic environment while maintaining high standards of accuracy and execution.

Benefits

• US base salary range of $121,600–$177,800, plus bonus and benefits.
• Compensation may vary based on geographic location, with the specific salary range discussed during the hiring process.
• Opportunity to lead high-impact global Accounts Payable and Procure-to-Pay transformation initiatives.
• Exposure to advanced financial technology, including SAP, Coupa, AI, automation, OCR, and intelligent workflow solutions.
• Opportunity to work cross-functionally with Finance, Procurement, Accounting, IT, Engineering, suppliers, and external service providers.
• Ability to influence operational strategy, governance, scalability, and continuous improvement at an organizational level.
• Inclusive workplace committed to equal employment opportunity and accessibility.
• Workplace accommodations are available for qualified applicants who require them.
• This full-time position is based in the United States.
• This position is not eligible for immigration sponsorship.