Accounting Manager

Job Title: AP/AR Manager

Location: Hybrid, St. Pete/Tampa, FL

Position Summary

The AR/AP Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of accounts receivable, collections, and accounts payable functions. This role leads efforts to optimize cash flow, ensure timely collections and vendor payments, maintain strong customer and supplier relationships, and uphold effective internal controls.

Reporting to the Controller, the AR/AP Manager serves as a key partner across the organization, working closely with Sales, Operations, and Finance to resolve billing and payment issues, support financial reporting, and drive process improvements. The ideal candidate combines strong accounting knowledge with leadership skills, sound judgment, and a customer-service mindset.

Core Responsibilities

• Lead and manage accounts receivable, collections, and accounts payable operations. 
• Monitor aging reports and collection activities to improve cash flow and reduce outstanding balances. 
• Review and resolve complex customer billing issues, payment disputes, and account escalations. 
• Negotiate payment arrangements and settlements while maintaining positive customer relationships. 
• Review and approve credit memos, write-offs, invoice adjustments, and account exceptions in accordance with company policies. 
• Review customer contracts to ensure accurate billing, collections, and issue resolution. 
• Oversee invoice processing, coding, approvals, payment scheduling, and vendor account reconciliations. 
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of vendor payments through approved payment methods. 
• Manage vendor relationships and resolve payment discrepancies, inquiries, and escalations. 
• Review vendor contracts and payment terms to support accurate processing and effective cash management. 
• Partner with internal stakeholders to resolve customer and vendor issues and support operational objectives. 
• Support month-end and year-end close activities, including account reconciliations and accruals. 
• Establish, maintain, and improve internal controls, policies, and procedures related to receivables and payables. 
• Train, coach, and support team members while promoting accountability and continuous improvement. 
• Assist with audits, financial reporting, and other accounting or finance projects as needed. 

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience will be considered. 
• 7+ years of progressive experience in accounts receivable, collections, accounts payable, or general accounting. 
• Prior leadership, supervisory, or team lead experience preferred. 
• Strong understanding of accounting principles, including receivables, payables, accruals, reconciliations, and internal controls. 
• Experience managing customer collections, vendor payments, and dispute resolution. 
• Ability to review and interpret contracts, payment terms, service agreements, and related business documentation. 
• Experience reviewing and approving transactions while ensuring policy compliance and financial accuracy. 
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail. 
• Excellent communication and relationship-building skills with both internal and external stakeholders. 
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications. 
• Experience with accounting, ERP, or financial management systems. 
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines in a fast-paced environment. 
• Experience supporting advertising sales organizations and familiarity with advertising billing, contracts, or media-related revenue operations is strongly preferred. 
• Experience in media, publishing, or other service-based industries is a plus. 
• Ability to handle confidential financial information with professionalism and discretion.