Senior Manager, Accounts Payable

Sallie Mae • Sterling, VA

103d

About The Position

The Sr. Manager, Accounts Payable will be responsible for leading and optimizing the Accounts Payable function and managing the payments programs. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in accounting, excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, and the ability to manage a team effectively. They will also have an in-depth understanding of Workday Financial systems, financial reporting requirements and be able to stay up to date on changes to accounting regulations and industry trends.

Requirements

• Proven track record of managing and optimizing finance operations, including financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and compliance.
• Experience with financial systems and tools (Workday ERP, financial reporting software, etc.), with strong proficiency in Excel and data analysis.
• Familiarity with GAAP, SOX, and other regulatory and compliance requirements.
• Strong critical thinking and analytical skills, with the ability to drive results and navigate complex financial challenges.
• A proactive approach to problem-solving and process optimization.
• Strong ability to prioritize and manage multiple initiatives in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate a team.
• Excellent people management skills, with a focus on coaching, development, and fostering a positive team culture.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and at all levels of the organization.
• High attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities and ensure accuracy in financial operations.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
• MBA or professional certifications (e.g., CPA, CMA) is a plus.
• 7+ years of experience in finance or accounting, with at least 3 years in a leadership role managing finance operations teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Accounts Payable team, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance the efficiency and scalability of payments function including planning, forecasting, and reporting.
• Partner with key stakeholders (e.g. Procurement, Vendor Management, Accounting, FP&A, Treasury, IT) to ensure alignment of financial processes and objectives.
• Oversee the day-to-day operations of processes, ensuring accuracy and timeliness in payment processing, financial reporting, transaction processing, and data reconciliation.
• Ensure timely and accurate month-end close activities related to A/P.
• Identify and implement process improvements to streamline workflows, enhance automation, and reduce operational costs.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) to drive performance improvements and ensure high-quality output.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant accounting standards, regulations, and internal policies, mitigating risks and safeguarding the company’s financial integrity.
• Develop and maintain accounting policies and procedures to ensure accurate and timely financial reporting.

Benefits

• Competitive base salaries
• Bonus incentives
• Generous PTO, Floating Holidays and 12 Federal Holidays observed
• Support for financial-well-being and retirement 401k with employer match
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, hospital indemnity, critical illness, pet insurance and more
• Employer paid short-term/long-term disability and basic life insurance
• Flexible hybrid working arrangements.
• Paid parental leave and adoption reimbursement programs
• Free access to on-site staffed fitness centers (in Delaware) and gym subsidy (for locations outside Delaware)
• Confidential counseling support (EAP), Health Advocacy services and Wellness program with financial incentives
• Tuition Reimbursement and Family Scholarship Programs
• Career development and training opportunities

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree