Lead - Accounts Payable
A Career at HARMAN
As a technology leader that is rapidly on the move, HARMAN is filled with people who are focused on making life better. Innovation, inclusivity and teamwork are a part of our DNA. When you add that to the challenges we take on and solve together, you’ll discover that at HARMAN you can grow, make a difference and be proud of the work you do every day.
Introduction: A Career at HARMAN Automotive
We’re a global, multi-disciplinary team that’s putting the innovative power of technology to work and transforming tomorrow. At HARMAN Automotive, we give you the keys to fast-track your career.
Engineer audio systems and integrated technology platforms that augment the driving experience
Combine ingenuity, in-depth research, and a spirit of collaboration with design and engineering excellence
Advance in-vehicle infotainment, safety, efficiency, and enjoyment
About the Role
The AP & Disbursement Team Leader is responsible for managing end-to-end Accounts Payable operations and payment disbursement processes across multiple geographies. This role ensures timely, accurate, and compliant processing of vendor invoices and payments while driving process standardization, efficiency, and continuous improvement in a global shared services environment.
Your Team
This role reports into the Manager, Finance position and has 4-6 direct reports.
What You Will Do
1. Accounts Payable Operations
Oversee end-to-end AP processes including invoice processing, 2-way & 3-way matching, vendor master data validation, and issue resolution
Ensure timely and accurate posting of invoices in compliance with company policies and accounting standards
Monitor and manage pending invoices, aging, and exception queues
2. Payment & Disbursement Management
Manage payment cycles (weekly/bi-weekly/monthly) across multiple payment methods (bank transfers, checks, ACH, wire, etc.)
Review and approve payment proposals ensuring accuracy and completeness
Ensure compliance with internal controls, SOX requirements, and treasury guidelines
Coordinate with banks, treasury teams, and vendors to resolve payment-related issues
3.
Team Leadership & Development
Lead, coach, and mentor a team of AP and disbursement analysts
Allocate workload, set performance goals, and monitor individual/team performance
Conduct regular performance reviews and provide feedback
Support team skill development and cross-training initiatives
4. Stakeholder Management
Act as a key interface between internal stakeholders (procurement, finance, business units) and external vendors
Handle escalations related to vendor payments and invoice processing
Collaborate with global teams across regions to ensure alignment and consistency
5. Process Improvement & Transformation
Identify opportunities for process automation, standardization, and efficiency improvements
Drive implementation of best practices and continuous improvement initiatives (Lean, Six Sigma, etc.)
Support system implementations, migrations, and transitions to shared services
6.
Compliance & Controls
Ensure adherence to company policies, audit requirements, and regulatory frameworks
Maintain strong internal controls and documentation for audit readiness
Support internal and external audits by providing required documentation and explanations
What You Need to Be Successful
Strong leadership and people management skills
Excellent stakeholder communication and influencing ability
High attention to detail and problem-solving capability
Knowledge of global payment processes and banking systems
Process-oriented mindset with continuous improvement focus
Ability to work in a fast-paced, multi-cultural, global environment
Bachelor’s degree in finance, Accounting, or related field
10–12 years of experience in Accounts Payable / Finance Operations
2–4 years of team management experience in a global/shared services environment
Experience working with ERP systems (SAP)
Strong knowledge of AP processes, payment mechanisms, and financial control
Bonus Points if You Have
A proven track record in team management is a distinct advantage
Certified Public Accountant qualification is a plus
Proactive, goal-oriented decision making
Ability to effectively work across functional boundaries to bring tasks to successful conclusion
What Makes You Eligible
Be willing to travel internationally occasionally if required
Be willing to work in an office; this role is eligible to work remotely up to full-time with occasional trips into the Shared Services office location required (this could be on 24-hour notice)
Successfully complete a background investigation and an occupational health screening (may include a drug screen) as a condition of employment
What We Offer
Flexible work environment, allowing for full-time remote work globally for positions that can be performed outside a HARMAN or customer location
Access to employee discounts on world-class Harman and Samsung products (JBL, HARMAN Kardon, AKG, etc.)
Extensive training opportunities through our own HARMAN University
Competitive wellness benefits
Tuition Reimbursement
Access to HARMAN Campus Fitness Center and Cafeteria (where available)
An inclusive and diverse work environment that fosters and encourages professional and personal development.
#LI-AR2
HARMAN is proud to be an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics.