Accounts Payable Associate/Europe (Financial Administration)

The main responsibilities of an Accounts Payable Associate at Charles River Associates include processing invoices, handling expense reimbursements, managing external consultant billing, and preparing electronic payments. The role encompasses collaboration with various teams to resolve discrepancies, perform contract reviews, and support the month-end close process.

To qualify for the Accounts Payable Associate position at Charles River Associates, candidates should ideally have a qualification in an accounting-related field, along with 2-3 years of experience in accounts payable. Familiarity with finance systems like Oracle and Chrome River, proficiency in Microsoft Office, and strong attention to detail are necessary for success in this role.

The Accounts Payable team at Charles River Associates collaborates extensively with other departments, including contracts, general accounting, and billing personnel. This teamwork is vital for resolving issues related to invoices, consultant billing, and ensuring that financial records are accurate and up-to-date.

While not mandatory, having experience with foreign currency and international transactions can be advantageous for the Accounts Payable Associate role at Charles River Associates, especially since the position involves managing accounts payable functions for entities based in Switzerland, Germany, and Australia.

Charles River Associates promotes a flexible work environment. Accounts Payable Associates are expected to spend an average of 3 to 4 days a week in the office, complemented by opportunities to work remotely. This approach encourages a balance between collaboration and personal work preferences.

When answering this question, highlight any relevant experience you have in processing invoices, managing expense reimbursements, or working with finance software. Use specific examples to illustrate your problem-solving skills and your ability to streamline payables effectively.

Discuss the strategies you employ to manage your time effectively, such as organizing invoices based on urgency and importance, utilizing to-do lists, or leveraging financial software tools to keep track of deadlines. This showcases your organizational skills.

Share a specific example that demonstrates your analytical skills and attention to detail. Explain how you identified the issue, the steps you took to resolve it, and any collaboration with internal stakeholders or vendors that was required.

Talk about your experience with software such as Oracle and Chrome River. Provide concrete examples of tasks you performed using these platforms, including invoice processing, payment approvals, and reporting.

Emphasize your understanding of internal controls and SOX compliance. You could discuss checks and balances you implement, such as thoroughly reviewing invoices or ensuring proper documentation during each step of the payment process.

Demonstrate your customer service skills by explaining how you would communicate with the vendor, investigate the cause of the delay, and outline a plan for resolution. Highlighting empathy and proactive communication can showcase your professionalism.

Discuss your approach to training, which could include creating instructional materials, conducting hands-on sessions, or utilizing role-play scenarios to help new employees feel comfortable. Share any experiences where your training proved successful.

Provide specific examples demonstrating your attention to detail, such as identifying errors on invoices or ensuring compliance with payment terms. Relate these careful practices to the accuracy and integrity of financial records.

Talk about your adaptability and willingness to learn. Reference any past experience with process changes or the implementation of new tools. This will show your potential to contribute positively to CRA’s evolving practices.

Express your enthusiasm for the role by aligning your career goals with Charles River Associates' values. Mention your interest in working within an esteemed consulting firm and your eagerness to contribute to their financial operations while growing professionally.