Manager: Accounts Payable

Introduction

The main purpose of the job is to manage the efficient processing of accounts payable operations, ensuring timely and accurate disbursement of payments while maintaining strong vendor relationships. The Manager: Accounts Payable develops and implements strategies to streamline the accounts payable process, enhance financial controls, and optimize cash flow management within SENTECH's financial accounting framework.

Duties & Responsibilities

Key Performance Areas

• Develop and implement efficient accounts payable processes and procedures to ensure timely and accurate payment disbursement.

• Oversee the processing of invoices, purchase orders, and payment requests in adherence to established policies and guidelines.

• Monitor the accounts payable workflow to identify bottlenecks and implement strategies for process improvement and optimization.

• Streamline the accounts payable process through automation and technological advancements to enhance efficiency and reduce manual errors.

• Ensure compliance with regulatory standards and internal controls in all accounts payable activities.

• Prepare regular accounts payable reports and analyses, providing insights into payment trends, liabilities, and cash flow management.

• Monitor accounts payable metrics and key performance indicators to assess the efficiency and effectiveness of accounts payable operations.

• Provide recommendations for financial improvements and cost-saving opportunities based on accounts payable data analysis.

• Ensure accuracy and completeness of accounts payable data for financial reporting and audit purposes.

• Collaborate with the finance and accounting teams to reconcile accounts payable data with general ledger accounts and financial statements.

• Analyse forecasting data to improve business decisions.

• Ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines, accounting standards, and internal controls in all accounts payable operations.

• Implement robust controls and procedures to mitigate financial risks and prevent fraudulent activities within the accounts payable function.

• Facilitate internal and external audits related to accounts payable processes, providing necessary documentation and support.

• Collaborate with the compliance team to address any compliance issues or concerns related to accounts payable management.

• Stay updated with regulatory changes and industry standards related to accounts payable management, making necessary adjustments to ensure compliance.

• Identify potential accounts payable related issues and develop strategies to mitigate them effectively.

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with vendors and suppliers to ensure smooth transactions and timely payments.

• Negotiate favourable payment terms and discounts with vendors to optimise cash flow and reduce costs.

• Address and resolve any issues or disputes related to vendor payments or services promptly and effectively.

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align vendor management strategies with SENTECH's overall objectives.

• Provide effective leadership to the accounts payable team, fostering a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.

• Set clear goals and performance expectations for the team, aligning them with the department's and SENTECH's strategic objectives.

• Conduct regular performance evaluations, provide constructive feedback, and identify opportunities for skill development and training.

• Foster a learning environment that encourages professional growth and knowledge sharing within the team.

• Promote effective communication and collaboration within the team and across other departments to achieve shared goals and objectives.

• Foster positive relationships with internal stakeholders such as procurement, finance, and budgeting teams to ensure smooth coordination and collaboration in accounts

• payable operations.

• Establish effective communication channels with vendors and suppliers to address any concerns and maintain strong working relationships.

• Collaborate with senior management to provide insights into accounts payable processes and financial implications for strategic decision-making.

• Address any issues or inquiries from internal and external stakeholders related to accounts payable processes and payments promptly and professionally.

• Act as a liaison between the accounts payable team and other departments to ensure alignment with organisational goals and objectives.

Desired Experience & Qualification

Minimum Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Financial Management or Business Management or equivalent.

• Honours degree in Financial Management, Accounting, Business Management or a related field will be an added advantage.

Experience

• 8 years’ experience in managing accounts payable operations, with a minimum of 5 years in a managerial role.

• Experience within the telecommunication industry will be an added advantage.

• Experience in implementing and optimising accounts payable processes and procedures to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

• Familiarity with financial software and tools used for accounts payable management and financial reporting.

• Experience in overseeing a team and managing complex accounts payable functions within a corporate environment.

Knowledge

• Comprehensive understanding of accounts payable principles, processes, and best practices.

• Proficiency in financial management software and tools used for accounts payable processing and financial reporting.

• Knowledge of relevant accounting standards and regulatory requirements related to accounts payable management.

• Familiarity with cash flow management principles and strategies within the context of accounts payable functions.

• Understanding of internal controls and audit procedures related to accounts payable to ensure compliance and accuracy.

• Knowledge of the Public Finance Management Act (PFMA).

Interested?

HOW TO APPLY

If you are interested and meet the required criteria as described above, please send your CV on/or before the closing date to recruitment@sentech.co.za

CLOSING DATE: 29 September 2026

Sentech will give preference to suitable candidates who add to the cultural and gender diversity of the company. People with disabilities will be given preferences and they are encouraged to apply. Medical examinations will be undertaken before successful appointment depending on the nature of the position.

Correspondence will be limited to short-listed candidates. If you have not been contacted within three months after the closing date, please consider your application as unsuccessful. All materials and communications will be held in absolute confidence.

Sentech reserves the right not to appoint.

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