Accounts Payable Manager, Direct

About the Role

As a key member of the Procurement organization, the Accounts Payable Manager will be responsible for ensuring every dollar is spent responsibly, compliantly, and efficiently. This is a high-growth environment, and the successful candidate will need to be comfortable operating in ambiguity, managing high-volume workflows, and driving continuous improvement.

The role is based in San Francisco, CA, with a hybrid work model that includes 3 days in the office per week. Openai offers relocation assistance to new employees, making this an attractive opportunity for those looking to join a leading company in the tech industry.

What You Will Do

• Own end-to-end AP operations across Direct Procurement, including intake, 2/3-way match, exception handling, disbursements, supplier inquiries, and close activities.
• Act as the primary escalation point, partnering with Accounting and cross-functional teams to resolve complex exceptions, payment holds, and close blockers.
• Build and scale Direct AP foundations by defining receiving and asset management processes required for 3-way match.
• Improve performance by driving cycle time, first-pass yield, and on-time payment, while reducing root causes of top exceptions.
• Maintain strong controls and compliance, including SOX-aligned approvals, audit readiness, and segregation of duties.
• Drive automation and system improvements across ERP and AP workflows to reduce manual work and improve data quality.
• Leverage AI-first approaches to AP operations, identifying opportunities to deploy automation, agents, and intelligent workflows to reduce manual effort, improve accuracy, and scale efficiently.
• Enhance supplier and stakeholder experience by resolving escalations, enabling self-service, and partnering on operational improvements.
• Own reporting and visibility across AP metrics, including aging, cycle time, exceptions, payment forecasts, and risk.
• Partner with BPO teams to manage capacity and performance through clear SLAs, KPIs, and continuous improvement.

What We Are Looking For

• Proven experience supporting direct spend or supply chain in high-growth environments, with a strong track record of handling volume while building for scale.
• Hands-on expertise in AP operations and systems, including ERP and procurement tools, with the willingness to dive into queue work, resolve mismatches, and support accruals and close activities.
• Strong stakeholder management skills, with experience supporting cross-functional partners and handling executive or VIP escalations.
• A process and controls mindset, with experience improving workflows, driving automation, and maintaining strong controls and compliance.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills, with the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with AI-first approaches to AP operations, including automation, agents, and intelligent workflows.
• Strong analytical and technical skills, with the ability to drive automation and process improvements.

Nice to Have

• Experience with AI-driven solutions, including machine learning and natural language processing.
• Knowledge of cloud-based AP systems and tools, including ERP and procurement software.
• Certification in AP or a related field, such as CPAP or CAPA.

Benefits and Perks

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off.
• Hybrid work model with 3 days in the office per week, offering flexibility and work-life balance.
• Relocation assistance to new employees, making it easier to join the team.
• Opportunities for professional development and growth, including training and education programs.
• Collaborative and dynamic work environment, with a team of experienced professionals.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and tools, including AI-driven solutions and automation software.
• Recognition and reward programs, including bonuses and incentives for outstanding performance.

• Develop a strong understanding of AP operations and systems, including ERP and procurement tools, to stand out as a candidate.
• Showcase your ability to operate in high-growth environments, managing high-volume workflows and driving continuous improvement.
• Highlight your experience with AI-first approaches to AP operations, including automation, agents, and intelligent workflows.
• Prepare to discuss your experience with stakeholder management, including supporting cross-functional partners and handling executive or VIP escalations.
• Be ready to provide examples of process improvements and automation projects you have led or been a part of, demonstrating your ability to drive change and increase efficiency.
• Research Openai's company culture and values, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with their mission and goals.
• Consider creating a portfolio or examples of your work, such as process maps or automation projects, to demonstrate your skills and experience to potential employers.