Lead – Accounts Payable

About ZEISS IndiaZEISS is a global leader in Optics and Optoelectronics, shaping technological progress in Healthcare, Manufacturing, and Research. In India, ZEISS operates across Sales & Services, Manufacturing, and our Global Capability Center — combining innovation with operational excellence. Role SummaryWe are looking for an experienced Lead – Accounts Payable to play a key role in transforming ZEISS India’s Accounts Payable (AP) function into a fully digital, efficient, and compliant operation.This role requires strong subject matter expertise in Accounts Payable and proven experience in Automation, Process Improvement, and ERP transformation (preferably SAP S/4HANA).The role will actively support the Senior Manager – Accounts Payable, acting as a key driver of change and helping design and implement best-in-class AP processes while ensuring accuracy, compliance, and seamless vendor management.Key Responsibilities1. Process Transformation & AutomationLead and support automation initiatives within the AP process to enhance speed, accuracy, and compliance.Collaborate with IT and Global Teams to implement and optimize SAP S/4HANA functionalities relevant to Accounts Payable.Identify process bottlenecks and help design digital workflows for invoice processing, approvals, and payments.Deploy and support digital tools such as OCR, RPA, or AI-enabled platforms to minimize manual intervention and improve efficiency.2. Subject Matter Expertise in Accounts PayableFunction as a subject matter expert (SME) for all AP-related processes, systems, and compliance requirements.Drive standardization and harmonization of AP processes across ZEISS India’s business units – Sales & Services, Manufacturing, and the Global Capability Center.Ensure seamless integration of AP processes with Procurement, Treasury, and accounting functions.Support in developing and maintaining SOPs, process documentation, and control frameworks in line with ZEISS global finance standards.3. Operational Excellence & ComplianceOversee day-to-day AP operations, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and completeness in vendor invoice processing and payments.Ensure compliance with GST, TDS, and RBI regulations for domestic and foreign payments.Maintain strong internal controls and support audits, reconciliations, and risk reviews.4. Reporting & AnalyticsPrepare and publish MIS reports, dashboards, and analytical insights on AP metrics, vendor aging, and payment performance.Use data-driven insights to identify trends, highlight risks, and propose process improvements.Support the Senior Manager – AP in defining and monitoring KPIs related to automation, compliance, and efficiency.5. Collaboration & Change ManagementWork closely with Procurement, IT, Finance, and other business units to drive digital transformation goals.Collaborate with vendors to facilitate digital invoicing and payment processes.Promote a tech-first, data-driven culture within the AP team through upskilling and adoption of new tools and technologies.Qualifications & ExperienceMBA in Finance (preferred) or equivalent postgraduate qualification in accounting/finance.5+ years of exclusive experience in Accounts Payable, including at least 2 years in automation or process transformation projects.Firsthand experience in SAP (preferably S/4HANA) with exposure to AP process configuration, testing, or implementation.Strong understanding of the Indian Tax and Regulatory Framework – GST, TDS, and RBI compliance.Working knowledge of digital tools such as Power BI, RPA, OCR, or AI-based finance solutions.Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills.Tech-savvy, process-oriented, and enthusiastic about continuous improvement in financial operations.Why Join ZEISS IndiaBe part of a global innovation leader committed to digital transformation.Contribute to building a best-in-class AP function that drives efficiency and compliance.Experience a collaborative, high-performance culture with global exposure and growth opportunities.