Accounts Payable Specialist - Non-Profit Finance & Analytics
About the position We are seeking an experienced and adaptable Accounts Payable Specialist to join our mission-driven finance team. This role goes beyond traditional AP functions, requiring strong knowledge of GAAP, fund accounting, and cross-functional collaboration. Responsibilities • Manage and process AP transactions with accuracy and timeliness. • Perform and teach proper reconciliation techniques across accounts. • Review and analyze smaller accounts for accuracy and completeness. • Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). • Provide insights and training on fund balance accounting and accrual methods. • Ensure timely and accurate payment of vendor invoices through various methods (e.g., checks, ACH, credit cards). • Verify, code, and process invoices, ensuring compliance with policies and procedures. • Maintain accurate and organized records of accounts payable transactions. • Reconcile vendor statements, resolve discrepancies, and prepare bank reconciliations. • Prepare and analyze accounts payable reports, including aging reports and cash flow projections. • Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy in the accounts payable function. • Ensure compliance with tax regulations and other financial reporting requirements. • Serve as the point of contact for vendors, suppliers, and internal stakeholders on payment-related matters. • Assist in the development and monitoring of the accounts payable budget. • Assist in preparing monthly and annual financial reports, including those related to accounts payable. • Other duties as assigned Requirements • Process AP transactions accurately; reconcile accounts; review smaller accounts for completeness • Ensure compliance; provide insights and training on accrual methods • Manage vendor payments via checks, ACH, and credit cards • Verify, code, and process invoices per policy • Maintain organized AP records • Resolve discrepancies; prepare bank reconciliations • Prepare AP reports, aging schedules, and cash flow projections • Identify and implement efficiency enhancements • Adhere to tax and reporting requirements • Act as liaison for vendors and internal stakeholders • Assist with AP budget development and monitoring • Contribute to monthly and annual reports • Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA preferred) • 5–7 years of GAAP and accrual accounting experience, preferably in non-profit • Strong knowledge of fund accounting, grant compliance, and fixed asset management • Experience with CIP and inter-entity accounting • Proficiency in accounting software (Blackbaud, QuickBooks, NetSuite, SAP) • Advanced Excel skills (formulas, pivot tables, data analysis) • Familiarity with data analytics tools (Power BI or similar) • Ability to mentor others in accounting and analytics • Excellent interpersonal and problem-solving skills • The candidate must be able to speak, read, and write in English to effectively communicate with vendors, suppliers, and internal stakeholders. Nice-to-haves • Experience with system transitions is a plus Benefits • Health insurance • Dental & Vision insurance • Life insurance • Short- and Long-Term Disability Insurance • 403(b) Retirement Plan • Generous PTO (Paid time off)- Accrue up to 21 days in Year 1, some PTO carryover allowable. • Employee Assistance Program • Professional Development Opportunities • Employment may qualify for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) • Certain employees may qualify for City of Chicago commuter transit benefits Apply tot his job