We are seeking an experienced AP & Travel Lead to oversee Accounts Payable and Travel & Expense (T&E) operations for Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina within our LATAM Shared Services Center. This role is responsible for ensuring the timely and accurate processing of vendor invoices, maintaining compliance with local tax regulations, managing employee travel and expense programs, and driving continuous process improvements. The AP & Travel Lead will supervise a team of analysts, serve as a key point of contact for regional stakeholders, and contribute to operational excellence through strong leadership, process optimization, and compliance oversight.
Reporting To: Director, Finance & LATAM Shared Services Center
Key Responsibilities
Accounts Payable Operations
Lead and supervise AP analysts, coordinating daily invoice processing activities.
Ensure timely and accurate processing of vendor invoices across Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina.
Validate compliance with local tax requirements, including VAT, withholding taxes, and other applicable regulations.
Review and approve payment runs in accordance with company policies and procedures.
Monitor cash flow requirements and collaborate with Treasury on payment scheduling.
Manage vendor relationships, responding to inquiries and resolving issues efficiently.
Investigate and resolve invoice discrepancies, payment disputes, and escalations while maintaining strong supplier relationships.
Monitor AP performance metrics and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Support monthly, quarterly, and annual financial close activities related to Accounts Payable.
Travel & Expense Management
Oversee employee travel and expense processing and ensure compliance with corporate travel policies.
Ensure timely reimbursement of employee expenses and accurate expense coding.
Monitor travel spending and identify cost-saving opportunities.
Address employee inquiries related to travel and expense submissions.
Compliance & Process Improvement
Support the implementation and maintenance of a robust internal control environment.
Develop, implement, and maintain AP policies, procedures, and process documentation.
Ensure adherence to company policies, regulatory requirements, and audit standards.
Identify opportunities for process optimization and continuous improvement initiatives.
Maintain compliance with internal controls and corporate governance standards.
Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field. MBA is a plus.
7+ years of relevant experience in Accounts Payable, Finance Operations, or Shared Services.
2+ years of people leadership or team management experience.
Strong knowledge of Accounts Payable processes and controls.
Experience supporting LATAM operations, particularly Brazil, Mexico, and Argentina, is preferred.
Advanced English proficiency required.
Spanish proficiency required.
Portuguese proficiency is highly desirable.
Key Competencies
Proven leadership experience in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
Strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
Exceptional attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
Customer-service mindset with a focus on building strong business relationships.
Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
Strong organizational and process improvement skills.
Ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining high-quality standards.
