Job Description
Accounts Payable Specialist
Department: Accounting 500002
Employment Type: Full Time
Location: Sterling Heights
Reporting To: John Moceri
A Taste of Who We Are:
Backed by a tireless commitment to high quality, innovative culinary offerings and unparalleled client and guest services, Continental consistently ranks among the top contract dining and refreshment providers in the nation according to Food Management Magazine, the industry’s source for food service news and trends.
Our Mission
Delight our guest. Every meal. Every day.
Our Core Values
Exceptional – We recruit and retain phenomenal people who consistently go the extra mile to deliver results that lead the industry.
Hospitality – We are tirelessly committed to providing the highest quality food, beverages, and service by anticipating our guests' needs so they can count on memorable experiences every time.
Collaboration – We prioritize working together with a shared vision and effective & transparent communication, we unite as one team to achieve remarkable experiences.
Responsibility – we hold ourselves accountable to be there for our team and clients, to deliver what we say we will, when we say we will and check in on progress along the way.
Innovation – We are forward-thinkers always looking for new processes, technologies, and techniques to increase efficiencies and scalability to improve our services.
The Experience You’ll Create:
We are seeking a detail-oriented and motivated Accounts Payable Specialist to join our Finance team. This is an excellent opportunity for an early-career accounting or finance professional looking to build a strong foundation in corporate accounting and financial operations.
The Accounts Payable Specialist will be a key contributor to the full-cycle Accounts Payable (AP) process of managing outgoing corporate payments. It encompasses the understanding of issuing an initial purchase order and receiving goods to verify vendor invoices, executing payments, and reconciling the general ledger. The role includes not only the processing of invoices, but supporting vendor relationships, maintaining accurate financial records, and assisting with month-end close activities. The ideal candidate is organized, eager to learn, and committed to delivering accurate and timely results in a fast-paced environment.
Accounts Payable Processing
- Review, verify, and process vendor invoices accurately and in a timely manner.
- Ensure invoices are coded correctly to the appropriate general ledger accounts and cost centers.
- Match invoices to purchase orders/receivers and supporting documentation, resolving discrepancies as needed.
- Prepare and process weekly payment runs, including checks, ACH, and wire payments.
- Maintain organized electronic records and supporting documentation.
Vendor & Internal Support
- Reconcile vendor statements and respond to vendor inquiries regarding payment status, invoice discrepancies, and account information.
- Collaborate with internal departments to obtain approvals and resolve invoice-related issues.
- Assist in maintaining positive relationships with vendors and business partners.
Reconciliations & Reporting
- Assist with month-end close activities, including expense accruals and account reconciliations.
- Support audit requests by gathering documentation and providing requested information.
- Maintain accurate vendor master data and ensure compliance with company policies.
Process Improvement
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, accuracy, and workflow within the Accounts Payable process.
- Support implementation of automation initiatives, electronic workflows, and process standardization efforts.
- Participate in special projects and system enhancements as assigned.
Ingredients for Thriving:
Qualifications
- Associate's or Bachelor's Degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
- 1–3 years of Accounts Payable, accounting, finance, or administrative experience.
- Basic understanding of accounting principles and financial processes.
- Familiarity with AI automation solutions is a plus.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
- Excellent organizational, time management, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications.
- Experience with ERP systems or accounting software is a plus.
What You'll Bring
- A willingness to learn and grow within a finance organization.
- Strong customer service mindset when working with vendors and internal stakeholders.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- High level of integrity and accountability.
- Positive attitude and collaborative approach to teamwork.
Savor the Benefits:
We offer a range of benefits for eligibles team members, including:
- Health Coverage – Medical, Dental and Vision
- Voluntary Life/AD&D, Short-Term and Long-Term Disability, Critical Illness
- 401(k)
- Paid Time Off
- Paid Parental Leave
- Wellness Programs
- Additional Perks