Manager of AR & AP Shared Services

Who we are 

Lesaffre is a key global player in the fermentation of microorganisms (yeasts and bacteria) for baking, taste, healthcare and industrial biotechnology. This story began more than 170 years ago in northern France, and, thanks to our pioneer spirit and our innovative approach, we are constantly developing. 

Lesaffre's global presence includes 11,000 employees from 96 nationalities and a 3-billion euro turnover. We work with customers, partners and researchers to develop essential nutrients and bio actives that strengthen human health, optimize animal well-being and improve plant nutrition. 

Our Core Values: Passion, respect, trust, entrepreneurship, and humility  

What we offer  

• The opportunity to represent a passionate organization focused on innovation and sustainability 
• A competitive 401K plan, affordable benefits starting on day 1 of employment, and 12 paid holidays  
• The ability to utilize your experience and knowledge to make a real impact  
• Opportunities for continuous growth within your role and across business units  

What you bring to the table 

Are you a finance professional ready to transform our Accounts Receivable (AR) and Accounts Payable (AP) operations? As our Shared Services Manager, you'll be the driving force behind leading our dedicated team to new heights of efficiency and accuracy. Leveraging your exceptional finance expertise and top-notch leadership skills, you'll oversee the full lifecycle of receivables and payables, ensuring timely processing, robust internal controls, and seamless compliance with corporate policies.

You'll also spearhead process improvement initiatives, identifying opportunities to enhance workflows through automation and cross-functional collaboration. When it comes to financial reporting and analysis, your ability to provide insightful recommendations will be instrumental in empowering our leadership team to make strategic decisions.

If you thrive on the challenge of optimizing mission-critical finance functions, we want you to join our team!

What you’ll do as the Manager of Shared Services for AR/AP

Leadership and Management:

•  Lead, mentor, and develop the AR/AP team, promoting continuous improvement
•  Oversee daily operations, ensuring timely and accurate transaction processing
•  Establish and monitor performance metrics for efficiency, accuracy, and compliance

Accounts Receivable Management:

•  Supervise AR processes, including billing, collections, cash applications, and credit
•  Develop strategies to improve AR aging and reduce days sales outstanding (DSO)
•  Manage customer relationships and resolve disputes or discrepancies

Accounts Payable Management:

•  Oversee AP processes, including invoice processing, payments, and vendor management
•  Ensure timely and accurate invoice payments, and compliance with terms
•  Address vendor inquiries and resolve payment issues

Process Improvement and Optimization:

•  Identify and implement enhancements to improve AR and AP efficiency
•  Drive automation initiatives and leverage technology to streamline processes
•  Collaborate cross-functionally to standardize and optimize AR/AP workflows

Financial Reporting and Analysis:

•  Ensure accurate and timely reporting of AR/AP metrics and provide analysis
•  Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual AR/AP reports for management
•  Support month-end and year-end close processes for AR and AP data

Internal Controls and Compliance:

•  Develop and maintain robust internal controls to safeguard assets
•  Ensure compliance with accounting standards, regulations, and policies
•  Coordinate with auditors on AR/AP-related audit processes

Stakeholder Management:

•  Serve as a key liaison between AR/AP and other departments
•  Provide exceptional service and address inquiries from internal stakeholders
•  Partner with senior management on strategic initiatives and financial planning

Required qualifications:  

•  Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field
•  7 or more years of experience in finance or accounting
•  3 or more years of experience in a managerial role overseeing AR and AP functions within a shared services environment
•  Proven experience in process improvement, financial reporting, and internal controls specific to AR and AP
•  High proficiency in the use of MS office tools (Excel and Power-Point), and in large ERP systems (Oracle & SAP preferred)
•  Expertise in financial database, finance and statistical software
•  Working knowledge of Hyperion Financial Management (HFM) for Global Financial Consolidation
•  Financial and Operational reporting experience using Wands for Oracle and SAP, and Hyperion SmartView
•  Advanced working knowledge of analytical & presentation programs & tools (e.g., Tableau, Microsoft Power BI)

Preferred qualifications: 

•  A Master’s degree or professional certification (CPA, CMA, etc.) is preferred

Lesaffre provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.