Manager / Senior Manager, ARES Financial Operations

Job Description

The Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) is Singapore's lead public sector R&D agency. Through open innovation, we collaborate with our partners in both the public and private sectors to benefit the economy and society. A*STAR's research creates economic growth and jobs for Singapore, and enhances lives by improving societal outcomes in healthcare, urban living, and sustainability.

A*STAR is recognised by many accountancy organisations: ISCA, ACCA, CPA Australia and ICAEW. It reaffirms our commitment to excellence in professional development, and to fostering the growth of our employees in the field of Finance and Accounting.

As a Manager/Senior Manager in the Accounts Payable Shared Services team supporting A*STAR Research Entities, you will play a key role in ensuring the timely and accurate execution of accounts payable operations while upholding service excellence, compliance, and process efficiency. Key responsibilities include:

• Manage the timely review and approval of payments to internal and external vendors, ensuring accuracy and compliance with established policies and procedures
• Monitor key performance indicators for accounts payable operations, resolve operational issues in a timely manner, and support ongoing improvements to service delivery
• Partner with internal stakeholders on accounts payable matters, ensuring adherence to internal controls, accounting policies, and established procedures
• Manage enquiries from Research Institutes and suppliers through the ticketing system, ensuring timely resolution in accordance with established KPIs and service level agreements
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives by identifying opportunities to streamline workflows, strengthen controls, and enhance operational efficiency
• Support the implementation of best practices to promote consistency, quality, and operational excellence across accounts payable processes
• Support accurate and timely tax reporting and compliance activities, and contribute to audit readiness and regulatory compliance requirements
• Provide guidance and support to team members, and contribute to capability building and knowledge sharing within the team
• Support projects, policy reviews, and other ad hoc assignments as required from time to time

Job Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Accountancy, Finance or Accounting (CA/CPA or equivalent certification is an advantage)
• At least 5 years of relevant experience in accounting or finance operations, preferably in a shared services environment, with exposure to supervising accounts payable or accounting teams
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, communication, and stakeholder management skills, with a proactive and results-oriented mindset
• Meticulous and well-organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet tight timelines
• Knowledge of SAP S/4HANA is an advantage
• Open to Singaporeans and Singapore Permanent Residents (PRs)