What are the responsibilities and job description for the Accounts Payable Manager position at Katten Muchin Rosenman LLP?
The Accounts Payable Manager is responsible for vendor payments, expense reimbursements and client escrow disbursements by performing essential duties personally or through delegation/supervision of subordinates. The Accounts Payable Manager maintains professionalism and strict confidentiality in all client and firm matters.
Katten offers a hybrid work model, allowing the flexibility to work both on-site and remotely on a regular basis (KattenFlex).
Essential Duties and Responsibilities include, but may not be limited to, the following. Other duties may be requested and/or assigned. Regular and predictable attendance is an essential function of the position. Essential functions are primary job duties that an individual must be able to perform successfully with or without a reasonable accommodation. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Manage accounts payable staff. This includes performance reviews, hiring new personnel, training, etc.
Maintain hands-on working knowledge of all accounting-related functions in order to provide proper training, backup, and support. This includes vendor payments, expense, reimbursements, client refunds and escrow transactions. Method of payment includes checks, ACHs, wires and credit cards.
Deliver a high level of customer service to firm attorneys and business professional staff.
Develop and implement accounting procedures as they relate to firm policies, other departments, vendors, etc. for more efficient processing of accounting-related work.
Oversee training and support to members of other departments concerning accounting procedures as they relate to the accurate preparation and submission of paperwork to the Accounting Department.
Audit the work completed by A/P personnel to evaluate the quality and accuracy of invoice processing and ensure internal controls are followed.
Investigate and resolve problems, questions and issues from all personnel as they relate to accounting procedures.
Complete special projects as requested and furnish accounting-related information and reports as needed.
Supervisory Responsibilities
Directly supervises and manages employees and is responsible for their overall direction, coordination, and evaluation. Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the firm’s policies and applicable laws. Responsibilities include interviewing and training; planning, assigning, and directing work; appraising performance; rewarding and disciplining employees; addressing complaints and resolving problems; and making recommendations for hiring, promotion, compensation, and termination.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or equivalent. Minimum of 10 years of accounts payable experience and 5 years of supervisory experience working within an Am Law 50 law firm is required; or equivalent combination of education and experience. Knowledge of the accounting processes and reporting requirements used by a large national law firm is required.
Computer proficient with advanced Excel Skills required; working knowledge of Microsoft Office software applications including Word and PowerPoint, as well as, knowledge of legal accounting systems software such as Aderant, Elite or SAP is preferred.
Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills. Ability to communicate with courtesy and diplomacy, efficiently follow written and verbal instructions, provide information, and maintain effective relationships with a diverse group of attorneys, clients, staff, and outside contacts.
Knowledge of sales and use tax processes for both local and state jurisdictions.
Outstanding analytical skills requiring an aptitude for detail, precision, and logic with comprehensive knowledge of complex accounting principles and practices in order to conduct detailed analysis of accounts payable operations.
Exhibit high degree of initiative and critical-thinking skills in exercising independent judgment and making decisions in order to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven, detail-oriented work environment, and ensure work is completed within strict deadlines.
Proactive with excellent troubleshooting, problem resolution, and follow-through skills.
Supervisory/managerial skills necessary in order to interact and communicate with subordinates, provide instruction/direction/training, determine work priorities, and coordinate the activities of a work team.
Excellent organizational skills including record keeping, data collection, and system information. Ability to compile and analyze data and furnish concise, detailed information in report format, written correspondence, e‑mail, or verbally.
Ability to perform complex mathematical calculations and apply mathematical concepts when computing, reconciling balances, verifying numerical data, preparing various accounting reports, providing back-up assistance and support in performing all aspects of accounting operations, and participating in preparation of the budget.
Required to work towards deadlines; must be able to work more than 37.5 hours per week as necessary.
Salary : $115,000 - $135,000