Director, A/P & Finance Operations - Global Co.!

$165,000 - $175,000/Yr

Ledgent - Torrance, CA

Full-time - Senior

Torrance, CA

Administrative and Support Services

About the position

The Director of Import Finance & Merchandise Supplier Accounts Payable (AP) is a pivotal role within our organization, responsible for overseeing the efficient and accurate management of supplier-related import finance operations. This includes managing supplier payments, resolving dispute claims, and handling related financial transactions and reporting for our global operations. As a consumer-centric, strategic global brand with a vast network of stores and customers worldwide, this position is crucial for ensuring compliance and operational excellence in our financial dealings with suppliers of manufactured goods. In this role, you will be tasked with reviewing and authorizing payments made to suppliers, leading the resolution of any discrepancies or inaccuracies in supplier payments or requests. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in finance compliance for manufacturing goods, supply chain management, and Oracle Cloud Financials. Exceptional leadership and strategic thinking abilities are essential, as you will be leading a medium-sized team and fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement. Your responsibilities will include providing strategic direction for the import finance team, ensuring the accurate processing of payments for inbound international shipments, and serving as the internal authority on supplier pricing compliance. You will collaborate closely with various departments, including Finance, IT, and affiliate offices, to drive data-based decision-making and identify new opportunities for financial data analysis. Additionally, you will lead the development and implementation of policies and procedures to enhance operational efficiency and compliance with relevant laws and regulations. This position requires a hands-on approach, as you will be present with your team on-site five days a week, ensuring that all operations align with company policies and industry standards. Your leadership will be instrumental in optimizing processes, resolving complex issues, and supporting senior management as needed.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and oversight for the import finance team, including senior managers, analysts, and coordinators.
• Ensure efficient and accurate processing of payments for inbound international shipments and related financial transactions.
• Serve as the internal authority on supplier pricing compliance, collaborating with Finance, IT, and affiliate offices.
• Lead the disposition and corrective actions of any non-compliances or inaccuracies in supplier payments or requests.
• Drive strategic, data-based decision making by identifying and overseeing new opportunities for financial data analysis.
• Lead monthly, quarterly, annual, and ad-hoc reporting to Finance and International Analysts.
• Communicate import and financial documentation requirements to suppliers and vendors through buying agents.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices to streamline purchase price compliance operations.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams to resolve complex issues and drive continuous improvement.
• Oversee the processing of special shipments, returns, transfers, and chargebacks, ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and company policies related to supplier price compliance operations.
• Collaborate with auditors to provide documentation and information as required.
• Identify opportunities for process improvements, system enhancements, and operational efficiencies.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in supplier finance, payment compliance, inventory operations, or supply chain management.
• At least 5 years in a supervisory role.
• Extensive knowledge and experience with Oracle and Peoplesoft systems, particularly in supplier costs finance and inventory management modules.
• Understanding of import/export regulations, international shipping procedures, and international freight forwarding processes.
• Proficiency in typical industry productivity applications.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Proven leadership abilities, with the capacity to motivate and develop teams.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in a publicly traded company in a leadership role, preferably in retail or consumer goods.
• Familiarity with general exposure to export operations.

Benefits

• Competitive salary ranging from $165,000 to $175,000 based on experience.
• Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
• Collaborative work environment with a focus on team excellence.