How Do I Become an Accounts Payable Supervisor?

People that work in an accounts payable department must have some type of accounting experience and educational background. Some people believe that accounts payable employees perform the same duties as payroll accountants, but there is a major difference. While both types of employees do often work closely together, accounts payable workers are in charge of approving an organization’s non-employee related payments. Since these types of workers have the pertinent responsibility of approving a company’s payments, it is necessary for them to be thoroughly supervised. To become an accounts payable supervisor a person must obtain the necessary education and gain certain skills through experience.

Most employers prefer for a person to obtain a bachelor’s degree in an accounting or finance field. In addition to a degree, some prefer for a person to have experience as a Certified Public Accountant, as well. There are a number of different colleges a person can attend to take accounting and/or finance-related classes. Many schools will also enlist their students in a career service’s program, which helps the students to find a job as an accounts payable supervisor upon graduation.

Anybody who wants to become an accounts payable supervisor must gain experience through some type of data entry position when first entering into the field. Many students choose to obtain this type of position while still in college. These students are able to learn how to supervise a multiple number of employees and/or projects, as well as gain the ability to adhere to confidentiality practices and how to engage with others. The more experience that a student can acquire in college, the more prepared the person will be to become an accounts payable supervisor right after graduating.

This type of supervisor often interacts with his or her employer’s vendors, suppliers, and distributors. Effective communication skills are a must in order for a person to become an accounts payable supervisor. Written communication skills are also helpful, as written presentations are often given by these types of supervisors.

Since this type of supervisor performs his or duties within an office setting, there are no physical requirements. In fact, most of the time, this type of supervisor will perform his or her job duties from a computer. Many employers require their supervisors to take certain advanced accounting computer classes. Even after graduation, some supervisors take other accounting and/or finance-related classes because it helps them to stay updated on accounting laws and practices.