Description

Accounts payable processors are responsible for managing and reviewing outgoing payments made by their organization. Their primary duties are to ensure orders and invoices are reconciled by checking that all items are received and paid for. This involves working with vendors to determine invoice status, making payments for (or returning) non-invoiced items, and ensuring the delivery of missing items. Accounts payable processors make payments and keep an accounts payable journal in line with standard accounting practices. They work closely with other departments such as procurement and receiving to investigate shipment and invoice information to resolve disputes with vendors. Some accounts payable processors may also manage travel reimbursements and other internal payments to organization employees.

Accounts payable processors generally work full time in an office environment. The majority of accounts payable processors’ time is spent analyzing invoices and payment processing information, as well as working with vendors to resolve payment issues. These processors work with other financial departments - as well as shipping and receiving - in the course of their duties. In larger companies, accounts payable processors work with a team of accounts payable personnel; in smaller organizations, they may serve as the primary handler of accounts payable under the supervision of a senior accounting manager.

A high school diploma or equivalent is required for this position. An associate’s degree in finance or a related field is needed for some positions. Proficiency in basic office software such as Microsoft Office products are needed, as well as math skills.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Accounts Payable Processor with 0-3 years of experience in the AE, your main responsibilities include:

  • Process and review invoices, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company policies and procedures.
  • Maintain vendor accounts, including reconciling statements and resolving discrepancies.
  • Prepare and process payments to vendors, ensuring timely and accurate disbursement.
  • Assist with month-end closing activities, such as reconciling accounts payable balances and preparing reports for management.

Qualifications & Work Experience

Accounts payable processors are accountable for overseeing and evaluating the incoming payments received by their organizations. Their main responsibilities are to make sure that invoices and orders are reconciled, by ensuring that the items have been accepted as well as paid. This includes cooperating with suppliers to establish the status of invoices, paying to (or returning) items that are not invoiced, and making sure that the unpaid items. The processors of accounts payable make payments and maintain an accounts payable journal that is in accordance with accounting standards. They collaborate with other departments like procurement and receiving to look into the details of invoices and shipment to settle disagreements with vendors. Certain processors of accounts payable may also handle travel reimbursements as well as other internal payments made to employees.

Essential Skills For Accounts Payable Processor

1

Office 365

2

Accounting Fundamentals

3

Data Entry

4

Account Reconciliation

5

Vendor Management

Career Prospects

The role of an Accounts Payable Processor is essential in ensuring accurate and timely processing of invoices and payments. For professionals with 0-3 years of experience in Accounts Payable, there are several alternative roles to consider within the finance industry. Here are four options worth exploring:

  • Junior Accountant: A role that provides support in maintaining financial records, preparing financial statements, and assisting with audits.
  • Cash Management Specialist: A position focused on optimizing cash flow, monitoring bank accounts, and executing cash management strategies.
  • Billing Coordinator: A role that involves managing billing processes, resolving invoice discrepancies, and ensuring timely invoicing to clients.
  • Financial Operations Associate: A position that supports financial operations, including budgeting, financial analysis, and process improvement initiatives.

How to Learn

The Accounts Payable Processor role in the United Arab Emirates is expected to witness significant growth in the market. A 10-year analysis indicates a positive trend, with a rising demand for professionals in this field. With the increasing size and complexity of businesses, more employment opportunities are projected to be available in the future. According to Google's latest data points, the job market for Accounts Payable Processors in the UAE is promising, offering potential for career advancement and stability. This growth trend reflects the crucial role these professionals play in managing financial transactions, ensuring timely payments, and maintaining financial records for organizations.