Director, Accounts Payable

The Opportunity

The Director of Accounts Payable provides strategic leadership, governance, and executive oversight of the University’s accounts payable, expense reimbursement, and payment operations. This role is responsible for establishing institutional policies, internal controls, and operational standards to ensure the accurate, timely, and compliant disbursement of funds while safeguarding University assets.

This position reports to the Vice President and University Controller and leads the Accounts Payable function, including oversight of a team of 11, with indirect support to the University’s Prescott, AZ campus. The Director serves as the primary authority for complex or sensitive payment matters and partners with stakeholders across the University to drive financial stewardship, risk management, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and set the vision and direction for accounts payable operations
• Ensure compliance with accounting standards, regulatory requirements, and University policies
• Oversee financial stewardship, including risk management, fraud prevention, and internal controls
• Lead organizational planning, staffing strategy, and team development for accounts payable
• Drive system enhancements, automation, and process improvements
• Serve as the primary liaison for audits, regulatory reviews, and compliance matters
• Collaborate with cross-functional leaders across Finance, Treasury, Procurement, IT, and other departments

Supervisory Responsibilities

• Provide executive oversight of the Accounts Payable team, including direct supervision of leadership staff
• Lead workforce planning, performance management, and succession planning efforts
• Foster a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement

Qualifications

Required Education and Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field
• 5-10 years of relevant experience in accounting or finance
• Strong knowledge of accounts payable operations, internal controls, and regulatory compliance
• Demonstrated leadership experience managing teams in a complex environment
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills
• Proven ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and sound judgment
• Experience with ERP systems (Workday preferred) and process improvement initiatives
• Accounts Payable certification preferred