Accounts Payable, Accounting Associate

As an Accounts Payable Accounting Associate II at FM, your primary responsibilities include processing vendor invoices accurately and promptly, managing vendor onboarding processes, and handling the purchase order match exception process. You'll facilitate timely payments in line with vendor terms and work collaboratively with multiple departments to address inquiries and resolve issues. This role requires an understanding of accounts payable processes and strong analytical skills to succeed.

To qualify for the Accounts Payable Accounting Associate position at FM, you need a high school diploma or equivalent education, along with at least three years of general accounting or accounts payable experience. An Associate's Business Degree or relevant experience at a Fortune 1000 company can enhance your application. Familiarity with accounting software such as PeopleSoft is a plus, and strong communication skills will go a long way in this role.

The work culture at FM is inclusive and supportive, fostering a collaborative environment where employees are valued and encouraged to grow. As an Accounts Payable Accounting Associate, you'll be part of a culturally diverse team that prioritizes teamwork and excellence. FM believes in work-life balance, offering flexible schedules that allow you to work from home one day a week and providing a holistic approach to employee well-being.

At FM, there are ample growth opportunities for an Accounts Payable Accounting Associate. The company actively supports career development through training, mentorship, and tuition reimbursement programs. As you build your experience and skills in accounts payable and broader financial functions, you can progress to more advanced roles, expanding your career within the finance and accounting sectors.

FM looks for candidates with strong analytical and problem-solving skills, a solid understanding of accounts payable processes, and proficiency in Microsoft Office. Attention to detail and excellent written and verbal communication skills are essential for handling vendor inquiries and collaborating with various departments efficiently. Being able to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment is crucial for this role.

When answering this question, detail your past roles and responsibilities related to accounts payable. Discuss specific tasks you performed, such as processing invoices or resolving discrepancies. Highlight any experiences that required collaboration with vendors or internal stakeholders, which shows your ability to communicate effectively.

Explain your methods for maintaining accuracy under pressure. Discuss tools or strategies you use, such as checklists or software for tracking discrepancies. You could also mention the importance of double-checking your work and the steps you take to minimize errors in a fast-paced environment.

Provide a real-life example that illustrates your problem-solving skills. Describe the issue, your approach to resolving it, the outcome, and what you learned from the experience. Emphasizing your communication with both the vendor and your internal team can highlight your collaborative abilities.

Discuss the specific accounting software you've used, such as PeopleSoft, QuickBooks, or others. Share how you've employed these tools in managing invoices, reconciling accounts, or generating financial reports. Being specific about your familiarity can demonstrate your technical skills and readiness for the role at FM.

Talk about your ability to manage multiple tasks while meeting deadlines. Provide an example where you've had to prioritize work effectively to complete it on time. Discuss how you manage stress and maintain quality in your output during peak periods in the accounting cycle.

Explain your organizational strategies, such as using digital or paper-based filing systems, creating priority lists, or utilizing project management tools. Share your methods for keeping track of aging invoices and following up with stakeholders, which reflects your proactivity and thoroughness.

Describe your understanding of the vendor onboarding process, emphasizing the importance of compliance with guidelines like collecting Form W-9s. Illustrate your systematic approach to validating banking information and keeping vendor data up-to-date to minimize potential payment issues.

Discuss your approach to collaborative problem-solving. Explain how you would reach out to relevant stakeholders, gather the necessary information, and synthesize it to resolve the issue. Highlight your communication skills and ability to facilitate discussions among departments.

Identify skills such as attention to detail, analytical thinking, proficiency with accounting software, and strong communication abilities. Relate how each skill plays a crucial role in effectively managing vendor relationships and ensuring smooth operations in accounts payable.

Here, you want to convey your enthusiasm for the company's mission and values. Mention the reputable position of FM within the industry, its commitment to employee development, and how this role aligns with your career goals. Demonstrating a desire to contribute positively to the company can leave a strong impression.