JOB SUMMARY

The accounts payable (A/P) specialist at Rees Scientific is responsible for managing key A/P functions, processing vendor invoices and various disbursements in the banks, recording journal entries and assisting with the month-end close and reporting. The role requires a deep understanding of accounting principles, strong analytical skills, and a commitment to maintaining compliance with financial standards. This position involves collaboration with various departments to provide insights into financial performance, contribute to month-end and year-end close processes, and support continuous improvement initiatives. A focus on effective communication and teamwork is essential to enhance the overall efficiency and effectiveness of the finance department.

DESIRED PROFICIENCIES AND SKILLS

• Exhibit a comprehensive understanding of the general ledger, journal entry postings, and reconciliations.
• Demonstrate knowledge of the three financial statements and the impact of journal entries on financial reporting.
• Utilize foundational Excel skills, including keyboard shortcuts, XLOOKUP, pivot tables, SUMIFs, filters, and data visualization techniques.
• Master relevant financial data systems (e.g., DBA, FoxPro) to extract data and prepare analyses with trends and visuals.
• Develop a thorough understanding of business operations and the impact of various departments on financial outcomes.
• Exhibit flexibility by filling in for colleagues on PTO and training others on their responsibilities.
• Compose clear and purposeful emails, defining the request and timing of response.

EDUCATION AND/OR EXPERIENCE

Bachelor’s degree in accounting and a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant accounting experience and / or training in G/L, AP, or financial functions.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Manage day-to-day accounts payable activities of the procure-to-pay cycle.
• Process mail and virtual correspondence related to vendor invoices, input data in financial systems for processing; manage shared A/P email box.
• Prepare schedules and process daily cash disbursements with the banks.
• Perform various internal controls around disbursements, including approvals, 3-way match and validation of completeness and accuracy.
• Review and post disbursements to appropriate G/L accounts.
• Investigate inquiries around payment of invoices, provide guidance and follow-up.
• Apply critical thinking when analyzing financials and escalate potential issues to management.
• Document current processes, creating flow diagrams to identify gaps and areas for improvement.