Accounting Operations Team Manager

Job Description

The Accounting Operations Team Manager leads the accounts receivable and accounts payable functions in a manufacturing environment, with a strong focus on cash flow, working capital, and process discipline. This role partners closely with Accounting, Treasury, Procurement, Supply Chain, and Operations to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant AR/AP activities while supporting the company’s growth and operational complexity.

Accounts Receivable (AR) & Collections

• Oversee customer billing, cash application, collections, and dispute resolution.

• Design, implement, maintain and/or advise AR collection policies/credit policies, procedures, and escalation paths.

• Establish clear collection strategies by customer risk profile and aging status.

• Monitor AR aging, past-due balances, and collection performance metrics.

• Lead collection efforts on delinquent accounts and manage escalations as needed.

• Partner with Sales, Supply Chain, and Finance to resolve pricing, quantity, delivery, and contract-related disputes.

• Support customer credit reviews, account setup, and ongoing credit limit monitoring.

• Ensure AR balances are accurate, reconciled, and properly supported.

Accounts Payable (AP)

• Lead vendor invoice processing, three-way matching (PO, receipt, invoice), and payment execution.

• Work closely with Procurement and Operations to resolve invoice discrepancies.

• Oversee payment runs and ensure adherence to payment terms.

• Maintain strong vendor relationships and resolve escalated issues.

• Ensure AP accruals are complete and accurate at period end.

Manufacturing & Process Focus

• Support inventory, logistics, and manufacturing-related transactions impacting AR/AP.

• Ensure alignment between AR/AP, inventory movements, and cost accounting.

• Drive continuous improvement of AR/AP processes, controls, and system automation.

• Strengthen internal controls to support audits.

Leadership & Close Support

• Lead, mentor, and develop AR/AP team members.

• Own AR/AP-related month-end close activities and reconciliations.

• Support working capital and cash flow reporting for management.

• Act as a key point of contact for auditors on AR/AP matters.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.

• CPA or equivalent certification is a plus

• 5+ years of experience in AR, AP, or general accounting, preferably in a manufacturing environment.

• 3+ years of experience in people management.

• Strong accounting background required.

• Solid understanding of GAAP, internal controls, and month-end close processes.

• Hands-on experience with ERP systems (manufacturing ERP experience strongly preferred).

• Advanced Excel skills and ability to work with large data sets.

• Knowledge of three-way matching, inventory flows, and supply chain processes.

• Proven ability to manage complexity, prioritize work, and lead process improvements.

• Strong analytical, communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a dynamic environment.

Illuminate USA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by law.

Illuminate is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.