Accounts Payable Specialist Lead - Accounting

Description Summary : The Accounts Payable (AP) Specialist Lead is responsible for overseeing and optimizing the accounts payable processes to ensure accurate and timely processing of invoices, payments, and reconciliations. Acting as a key point of contact between vendors, internal departments, and the AP team, the AP Lead will play a critical role in maintaining strong controls, improving efficiencies, and supporting AP team members. This role serves as a bridge between AP specialists and management, providing guidance, training, and problem-solving expertise. Responsibilities : Meets expectations of the applicable OneCHRISTUS Competencies : Leader of Self, Leader of Others, or Leader of Leaders. Lead and support a team of Accounts Payable professionals, providing guidance, training, and mentoring. Assist manager in compiling and preparing reports required by leadership. Partner with the AP Managers to create an effective organization while prioritizing functions and routines. Address escalated items in a timely and efficiently while multitasking and maintaining a sense of urgency to resolve critical matters. Perform daily audits to validate completeness and accuracy of invoices. Foster a culture of accountability and demonstrate good teamwork through actions and job performance. Manage and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders by ensuring a timely response. Demonstrate strong customer service while upholding CHRISTUS Health's core values. Provide support for month-end close processes and projects. Ensure efficient operation and compliance with CHRISTUS policies, healthcare industry regulations (i.e., HIPAA), and internal controls. Coordinate and support internal and external audits. Participate in required leadership and development courses. Collaborate with colleagues across departments to contribute to a positive work environment. Analyze exceptions and resolve internal / external stakeholder concerns. Utilize Excel and technology tools effectively to manage spreadsheets, financial software, and automation processes. Apply basic accounting knowledge to maintain accurate financial records. Adapt to process changes, system upgrades, and evolving business needs with a willingness to learn. Maintain confidentiality and integrity when handling sensitive financial information with professionalism and ethical responsibility. Manage time effectively to balance daily responsibilities, meet deadlines, and maintain efficiency. Effective written and verbal communication and interpersonal skills. Ability to work independently and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Perform other duties and responsibilities as assigned. Job Requirements : Education / Skills High School diploma or equivalent required. Business, Finance, or Accounting degree preferred. Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook, PowerPoint) Bilingual (Spanish / English) is preferred Experience 4 years of AP or Procurement experience is required. Healthcare experience is preferred. Infor / Lawson or other large ERP Systems. Previous ServiceNow exposure is a plus. Licenses, Registrations, or Certifications The following professional certifications are preferred : APM (Accounts Payable Manager) CAPP (Certified Accounts Payable Professional) CAPA (Certified Accounts Payable Associate) CPA (Certified Public Accountant) APPM (Accredited Procure-to-Pay Manager) Work Schedule : 5 Days - 8 Hours Work Type : Full Time