The Manager Accounts Payable is responsible for leading and optimising the full end‑to‑end Accounts Payable (creditors) function across the Group within a shared services operating model. The role ensures accuracy, efficiency, automation, supplier optimisation, compliance, and financial governance to support the Group’s financial objectives and operational excellence. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Oversee the full end‑to‑end Group creditors cycle, ensuring accurate, timely, policy‑aligned payments. Implement strong controls to prevent duplicate payments, incorrect supplier details, or manual processing errors. Manage AP month‑end close, ageing analysis, reconciliations, and exception resolution. Ensure all invoices are processed within defined SLAs and escalation protocol Assess the current AP operating model and continuously identify process bottlenecks. Define, document, and implement standardised AP policies, workflows, and governance procedures. Introduce workflow automation, OCR, and exception‑based processing to reduce manual effort. Manage, rationalise, and optimise supplier base to leverage buying power Ensure all suppliers are onboarded through proper vetting Improve supplier engagement, responsiveness, and communication. Ensure all payments have valid supporting documentation (contracts, POs, approvals). Enforce internal controls in alignment with finance policies, IFRS standards, and audit requirements. Maintain zero tolerance for policy deviations, fraud exposure, or audit exceptions. Manage AP compliance training for team and business units. Maintain a clean, accurate supplier master file aligned with data governance rules. Perform scheduled data audits to identify inconsistencies, duplicates, and risks. Ensure seamless integration of AP data into ERP systems and reporting tools. Prepare short, medium, and long‑term cash‑flow forecasts for creditors payments. Build and manage a high‑performance AP team with a culture of accountability. Conduct coaching, skills development, and performance assessments. Implement workforce planning, succession planning, and skills matrix tracking. Manage team morale during periods of change or transformation. Foster strong relationships with internal stakeholders (Procurement, Treasury, Finance, Audit, Operations). Manage escalations, resolve queries promptly, and ensure clear communication. Conduct stakeholder feedback sessions and implement improvements Evaluate AP, ERP, and workflow management systems for optimisation. Drive upgrades, new system implementations, and integrations. Troubleshoot system issues and ensure high uptime. Identify financial, operational, and fraud risks relating to AP workflows. Implement controls, segregation of duties, and monitoring tools. Perform root‑cause analysis on discrepancies or payment failures Skills and Experience JOB – RELATED REQUIREMENTS Grade 12 (Matric) BCom Degree in Finance, Accounting, or related field 5–8 years’ experience in a creditors/accounts payable environment 2–3 years’ experience in a management role in a Finance environment Advantageous: Required Knowledge: Accounting principles and financial management Accounts Payable processes and controls Financial legislation and compliance requirements Procurement-to-pay (P2P) processes Cash flow management and forecasting Financial systems and ERP platforms Required Skills: Advanced Excel and financial data analysis Strong analytical and numerical skills Negotiation and supplier management Planning, organising, and problem-solving Financial reporting and reconciliation Process improvement and optimisation Strong communication (written and verbal) Other Leadership and team development Attention to detail and high level of accuracy Strategic thinking and decision-making Accountability and ethical conduct Adaptability and resilience Stakeholder engagement and relationship management Results-driven and performance-oriented Innovation and continuous improvement mindset #J-18808-Ljbffr