Accounts Payable Manager in Kent, Washington at Seattle-Tacoma Box Company

About the Company:

Seattle-Tacoma Box Company is a sixth-generation, family-owned packaging manufacturer headquartered in Kent, Washington. Since 1889, we have provided innovative packaging solutions to customers throughout the Pacific Northwest, serving industries including agriculture, seafood, and industrial manufacturing. Built on a foundation of family values, integrity, quality, and customer service, we are committed to creating a collaborative workplace where employees can grow, contribute, and build long-term careers.

What you will do:

• Lead daily Accounts Payable operations, ensuring accurate and timely processing of invoices, payments, and expense reimbursements.
• Oversee vendor payments, ACH/wire transactions, and payment scheduling to support cash flow.
• Manage vendor relationships, resolve discrepancies, and coordinate vendor onboarding.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, internal controls, and regulatory requirements.
• Support month-end/year-end close, 1099 reporting, and audit requests.
• Supervise and develop AP staff, promoting accountability and continuous improvement.
• Streamline processes and leverage automation to improve efficiency and controls.
• Monitor AP metrics and reports to support decision-making.
• Partner with Finance leadership on forecasting, budgeting, reporting, and special projects.

What you receive:

• Competitive compensation - $95,000 - $110,000 depending on experience
• Bonus compensation - bonuses and profit-sharing opportunities
• Annual increases - for cost of living & merit
• Next level benefits - including medical, dental, vision and various other options. 5% match for 401k.

What you bring to the table:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 5+ years of progressive accounts payable or accounting experience.
• Strong understanding of accounts payable processes, accounting procedures, internal controls, and GAAP principles.
• Experience managing high-volume invoice processing and vendor relationships.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and accounting software.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and strong proficiency with Microsoft 365 applications.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships across all levels of the organization.
• Ability to prioritize multiple deadlines and thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of accuracy, attention to detail, and discretion when handling confidential financial information.
• Ability to successfully pass a criminal background check and drug screening.

Nice to Have:

• CPA, CMA, or other professional accounting certification.
• Previous supervisory or management experience leading Accounts Payable teams.
• Experience in manufacturing, packaging, distribution, or multi-location operations.
• Experience with Accumatica, IQMS, or similar ERP systems.
• Proven experience implementing process improvements, automation initiatives, or electronic payment solutions.
• Experience supporting audits, financial reporting, and cash flow management activities.

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Full Job Description

Position Summary

The Accounts Payable Manager is responsible for overseeing the organization's accounts payable function, ensuring the accurate, timely, and efficient processing of invoices, payments, expense reimbursements, and vendor records. This role manages the accounts payable team, maintains strong internal controls, supports financial reporting processes, and builds positive relationships with vendors and internal stakeholders.

Essential Functions:

Accounts Payable Operations

• Manage the day-to-day operations of the accounts payable department.
• Oversee the processing of vendor invoices, employee expense reports, and payment requests.
• Ensure all invoices are accurately coded, approved, and processed in accordance with company policies.
• Maintain timely payment schedules to maximize cash flow and take advantage of available discounts.
• Monitor accounts payable aging and resolve outstanding issues promptly.
• Review and approve payment batches, checks, ACH transactions, wire transfers, and other disbursements.

Vendor Management

• Establish and maintain positive relationships with vendors and suppliers.
• Resolve invoice discrepancies, payment disputes, and vendor inquiries.
• Manage vendor onboarding, including collection and maintenance of W-9s and other required documentation.
• Ensure vendor records are accurate and up to date.

Financial Controls and Compliance

• Maintain strong internal controls over accounts payable processes.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, accounting standards, and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Support month-end and year-end close activities related to accounts payable.
• Assist with external audits and provide required documentation.
• Oversee annual 1099 reporting and other tax-related reporting requirements.

Leadership and Team Management

• Supervise, train, mentor, and evaluate accounts payable staff.
• Establish performance expectations and provide ongoing coaching and feedback.
• Create an environment focused on accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Manage workload distribution and staffing needs within the department.

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and effectiveness of accounts payable processes.
• Develop and document departmental procedures and workflows.
• Support implementation and optimization of accounting software, automation tools, and electronic payment systems.
• Recommend best practices to improve internal controls and operational performance.

Reporting and Analysis

• Prepare accounts payable reports and metrics for management.
• Analyze payment trends, vendor balances, and department performance indicators.
• Assist leadership with cash flow forecasting and budgeting activities.
• Support special projects and financial analysis as needed.

Other Duties

• Perform additional duties and responsibilities as assigned.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field required.
• CPA, CMA, or other professional certification preferred.
• 5+ years of progressive accounts payable or accounting experience.
• 2+ years of supervisory or management experience preferred.
• Experience in manufacturing, distribution, or multi-location operations is a plus.
• Strong understanding of accounts payable principles, accounting procedures, and internal controls.
• Knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting practices.
• Proficiency with ERP systems and accounting software. Accumatica and IQMS preferred.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Ability to maintain confidential financial information.
• Ability and aptitude with Microsoft O365 and other technology necessary for successful day-to-day functioning in business environment.
• Clear criminal background check and drug test.

Physical Requirements:

Mental Requirements – Ability to reason logically and make sound decisions, to consider alternative and diverse perspectives, to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, to remain poised under all circumstances, and to interact effectively with people in a positive manner that creates confidence and trust.

Physical Requirements – long periods of stationary work, working on a computer, moving between various work areas, going up and down stairs, talking on the phone, working with office/computer equipment, attending meetings and sitting at desk or table while listening, talking and taking notes.

Working Conditions:

• Full-time
• Monday through Friday – general business hours
• Occasional travel to AZ, OR, CA, and AK – <5%