Director, Head of Accounts Payable

Overview

A leading global financial institution is seeking an experienced Director of Accounts Payable to lead AP operations and vendor lifecycle management across a large regional business. This leadership role will be responsible for driving operational excellence, governance, compliance, risk management, and process transformation across the procure-to-pay function.

The successful candidate will partner closely with senior stakeholders across Finance, Accounting, Tax, Treasury, Legal, Human Resources, Operations, Technology, and affiliated business entities to ensure efficient, scalable, and well-controlled Accounts Payable processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the Accounts Payable strategy, operating model, and service delivery framework.
• Lead end-to-end invoice-to-payment operations and vendor master data governance.
• Own and enhance the risk and control environment across Accounts Payable processes.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and service level agreements (SLAs), providing reporting and insights to senior leadership.
• Oversee month-end and period-close activities related to Accounts Payable.
• Drive issue resolution, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, tax obligations, and internal policies.
• Act as business owner and key stakeholder for Accounts Payable technologies and automation platforms.
• Lead transformation initiatives focused on automation, efficiency, process optimization, and digital enablement.
• Support internal and external audits, regulatory reviews, and control testing activities.
• Build, mentor, and develop high-performing teams while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, or a related discipline.
• Extensive leadership experience within Accounts Payable, Procure-to-Pay (P2P), or Finance Operations environments.
• Strong expertise in Accounts Payable processes, vendor management, controls, and governance.
• Experience with enterprise ERP systems and AP automation platforms.
• Deep understanding of risk management, internal controls, audit requirements, and compliance frameworks.
• Knowledge of global payment processes, tax regulations, third-party risk management, and vendor lifecycle operations.
• Proven track record leading large-scale process improvement, transformation, or digitalization initiatives.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience working within highly regulated environments, preferably within financial services or other complex corporate organizations.

Key Competencies

• Strategic leadership and the ability to influence across complex organizations.
• Strong risk and control mindset with a focus on governance and regulatory compliance.
• Operational excellence and process management expertise.
• Technology-driven approach to automation and continuous improvement.
• Exceptional stakeholder engagement and executive communication abilities.
• Strong team leadership, coaching, and talent development capabilities.

If interested, apply in!