Accounts Payable Specialist
Role Overview:
The Accounts Payable Specialist supports the Finance Department by managing all aspects of the accounts payable function with accuracy, timeliness, and strong attention to detail. Core responsibilities include processing vendor invoices, claim‑related payments, and operational expenses, as well as overseeing vendor management activities such as vendor onboarding, risk assessment, and OFAC compliance.
This role also administers key regulatory and financial processes, including 1099 reporting, escheatment, use/sales tax reporting, commission payments, and policyholder deductible processing. In addition, the Accounts Payable Specialist provides direct and indirect support for daily, monthly, quarterly, and annual Finance & Accounting activities, which may include accounting system maintenance, financial reporting, budgeting, reinsurance support, special projects, and other duties as assigned.
This position plays a critical role in maintaining financial integrity, ensuring regulatory compliance, and supporting strong vendor relationships within a highly regulated insurance environment.
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Responsibilities:
Accounts Payable:
- Process accounts payable, including claims indemnity/expense, general expense, premium refunds, expense reports, and dividend transactions.
- Prepare and execute payments via ACH, wire transfer, or check in accordance with company policies and vendor terms.
- Manage all payable system maintenance, including system interfaces, data transfers, user access, vendors, and payment types.
- Coordinate and monitor data processing batches (data files) and ensure successful transfer of data between applications.
- Monitor invoices for proper coding related to budgeting, capitalization, and reporting.
- Ensure only valid and authorized payable invoices/check requests are paid.
- Prepare and process all 1099 reporting and file with the IRS.
- Coordinate with management and monitor cash requirements across all bank accounts.
- Maintain confidentiality and accuracy when handling sensitive information.
General Accounting:
- Provide ad-hoc financial information by researching, analyzing, and summarizing accounting data.
- Prepare applicable reports and present findings to management.
- Reconcile and substantiate financial transactions, ensuring proper documentation and approval.
- Provide cross‑functional support during peak periods, audits, or operational changes.
- Assist with audits by preparing documentation and responding to auditor requests.
Special Projects & Ad-Hoc Assignments:
- Participate in ad‑hoc financial analysis, system enhancements, and special projects as assigned.
- Support departmental initiatives related to process improvement, internal controls, and operational efficiency.
Qualifications:
- 3–5 years of accounting experience with an intermediate understanding of accounts payable processes; insurance industry experience preferred.
- Associate’s degree in Accounting or related field preferred, equivalent experience considered.
- Experience with 1099 reporting, OFAC screening, or vendor risk management is a plus.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, deadline‑driven environment while managing multiple priorities.
- Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel (pivot tables, lookups, data validation).
- Experience with accounting systems; Sage Intacct experience is a plus.
- Comfort working with automated AP workflows, electronic payment systems, and data integrations.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
- Solid numerical aptitude and comfort working with quantitative data.
- Effective verbal and written communication skills.
- Strong interpersonal, customer service, and teamwork skills.
- Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, take ownership of assigned tasks.
- Proven ability to collaborate across departments, including management and third‑party partners.