Assistant Director

As a UW employee, you have a unique opportunity to change lives on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees offer their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to build stronger minds and a healthier world.

UW faculty and staff also enjoy outstanding benefits, professional growth opportunities and unique resources in an environment noted for diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

POSITION PURPOSE

UW Finance encompasses the major central financial functions for the University of Washington, including Enterprise Services, Financial Accounting, Sponsored Financial Programs, Student Financial Services, and Treasury. The Accounts Payable team reports to the Procurement Executive Director and is responsible for providing accurate and timely payment services to the UW suppliers & vendors across campuses.

The University of Washington is seeking a skilled Assistant Director of Accounts Payable to join the Procurement team. The Assistant Director of Accounts Payable will play a crucial role in managing and overseeing the accounts payable function for the University of Washington. This position is responsible for ensuring timely and accurate processing of payments, compliance with university policies and procedures, and fostering strong vendor relationships. The Assistant Director of Accounts Payable will also lead a team of accounts payable professionals and collaborate with other departments to support the university's financial goals. The position performs complex general ledger reconciliations, analysis and reporting. Performs fraud and risk monitoring. The work performed in this position impacts financial transactions across the University.

We encourage applicants to apply even if they do not feel they satisfy all of the skills listed below; we understand that it will take some time for the successful applicant to strengthen specific position skills where needed, to learn about the university systems, campuses, and vendor collaborators, to develop a deep understanding of the UW Finance environment itself. You will join a supportive team that will partner with you in these efforts; we are an open, ethical, highly engaged, and collaborative community based on trust, transparency, and mutual respect. We believe in the importance of quality of life, embracing diversity, making a difference, and having fun.

Position Complexities

Significant high volume of transactions with multiple layers of critical compliance and audit related policies and regulations. This position requires capability to manage, comprehend, and apply IRS tax regulations to payment requests or payments issued to both non-US residents and US residents.

Team Management

Responsible for day-to-day operations management.

Work with a diverse group of individuals and create a culture of inclusion and equity.

Advise and counsel a team of professionals.

Hire and manage a team of professionals; both regular staff and vendors/suppliers.

Responsible for staff development, career enrichment of staff, and any necessary corrective action.

Team includes Professional Staff, Classified Staff, and student interns/student employees.

Strategy/Program Development

Develop and communicate vision and programmatic direction.

Build, enhance, and continuously improve a robust program optimizing both central and unit resources to achieve goals.

Create new strategies utilizing new techniques and technology; implement innovative techniques to ensure the most effective program.

Seek ways to continuously improve the program.

Follow trends in the market; identify, develop, and disseminate best practices.

Leadership Skills

Manage multiple complex projects simultaneously.

Remain calm in stressful and crisis situations.

Exercise sound judgment at all times; balance the needs of the university.

Effectively manage strategic issues as well as tactical, operational details.

Effectively manage high-level university leadership, faculty, staff, and community leaders and volunteers at the university.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership & Team Management

Provide strategic direction and leadership to the accounts payable team, ensuring efficient and effective operations.

Recruit, train, and develop accounts payable staff, promoting a culture of accountability and teamwork.

Budget Management: Assist in budget planning and monitoring related to accounts payable functions.

Process Improvement: Identify opportunities for process optimization and implement best practices to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Train and cross-train staff within Finance, Planning, & Budgeting.

Program Management

Payment Processing: Supervise the processing of invoices, expense reports, and reimbursement requests in a timely and accurate manner.

Policy Compliance: Ensure adherence to university policies and procedures, as well as relevant accounting standards and regulations.

Vendor Relations: Cultivate positive relationships with vendors and work with Central Procurement team to understand and comply with contract terms.

Financial Reporting: Prepare and review financial reports related to accounts payable for internal and external stakeholders.

Audit Support: Facilitate internal and external audits related to accounts payable, providing necessary documentation and support.

Special projects and other duties as assigned.

Lead Responsibilities

This position may be responsible for both leading teams and serving as a subject matter expert, depending on the issue.

Externally: Ability to network and share best practices with others.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Provide functional leadership.

Lead team as directed.

Interview and recommend staff hires.

Assist in coordinating work schedules.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Bachelor's Degree in Business, Finance, Accounting, or equivalent in related field and five years of progressive experience preparing tax returns.

OR Certified Public Accountant (CPA) AND two years experience.

OR Certified Management Accountant (CMA) AND two years experience.

Equivalent education/experience will substitute for all minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license/certification/registration.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

Demonstrated knowledge and experience in accounts payable management, preferably in a higher education setting.

Excellent understanding of accounting principles, financial regulations, and tax compliance.

Excellent leadership and team management skills.

Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills.

Proficiency in accounting software and Microsoft Office Suite.

Attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.

DESIRED QUALIFICATION

Experience with Workday.

Application Process: The application process may include completion of a variety of online assessments to obtain additional information that will be used in the evaluation process. These assessments may include Work Authorization, Cover Letter and/or others. Any assessments that you need to complete will appear on your screen as soon as you select "Apply to this position". Once you begin an assessment, it must be completed at that time; if you do not complete the assessment, you will be prompted to do so the next time you access your "My Jobs" page. If you select to take it later, it will appear on your "My Jobs" page to take when you are ready. Please note that your application will not be reviewed, and you will not be considered for this position until all required assessments have been completed.