Accounts Payable Specialist (m/f/d)
Barcelona, B, ES, 08022
Syntax is a leading Managed Cloud Provider for Mission Critical Enterprise Applications and has been providing comprehensive technology solutions to businesses of all sizes since 1972. Syntax has undisputed strength to implement and manage ERP deployments (Oracle, SAP) in a secure and resilient private, public or hybrid cloud. With strong technical and functional consulting services, and world-class monitoring and automation, Syntax serves some of North America’s largest corporations across a diverse range of industries. Syntax has offices worldwide, and partners with Oracle, SAP, AWS, Microsoft, IBM and other global technology leaders.
Accounts Payable Specialist (m/f/d) – German and English
Job Summary
Syntax is seeking an Accounts Payable Specialist (m/f/d) with strong knowledge of German accounts payable processes and accounting requirements. The successful candidate will support invoice processing, vendor account maintenance, payment activities, reconciliations, month-end closing, and issue resolution.
This role requires practical experience with SAP S/4HANA and SAP ECC, excellent attention to detail, flexibility, and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, international environment. The position involves regular communication in German, English and Spanish with internal stakeholders, vendors, and business partners.
Key Responsibilities
- Process vendor invoices accurately and in accordance with company policies and established procedures.
- Review invoices for completeness, accuracy, appropriate approvals, tax compliance, and correct accounting information.
- Support the end-to-end accounts payable process, including invoice verification, posting, payment preparation, and resolution of exceptions.
- Perform vendor account reconciliations and investigate discrepancies or outstanding balances.
- Support payment runs and follow up on blocked or overdue invoices.
- Maintain and review vendor master data, including bank information and payment-related details, in accordance with internal controls.
- Apply knowledge of German accounts payable processes, accounting practices, and tax requirements.
- Support month-end and year-end closing activities, including reconciliations, reporting, and open-item reviews.
- Work with Procurement, Accounting, Treasury, and other internal stakeholders to resolve invoice and payment issues.
- Communicate with vendors in German, English and Spanish regarding invoice status, payment inquiries, missing information, and account discrepancies.
- Use SAP S/4HANA and SAP ECC to process transactions, review documents, analyze open items, and support reporting activities.
- Identify process gaps and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
- Maintain accurate documentation and ensure compliance with internal controls and audit requirements.
- Demonstrate flexibility in responding to changing priorities, business requirements, and operational needs.
- Support additional accounts payable activities and projects as required.
Required Qualifications
- Previous experience in an Accounts Payable Specialist or equivalent position.
- Practical knowledge of German accounts payable processes and accounting requirements.
- Experience processing invoices, resolving payment issues, and performing vendor account reconciliations.
- Working knowledge of German tax requirements relevant to accounts payable, such as VAT principles and invoice compliance.
- Hands-on experience with SAP S/4HANA and SAP ECC.
- Good understanding of the procure-to-pay process.
- Fluency or advanced proficiency in German, English, and Spanish both written and spoken.
- Strong attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
- Ability to investigate discrepancies, identify root causes, and follow issues through to resolution.
- Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with international teams.
- Flexibility and adaptability in a changing and fast-paced environment.
- Strong communication and stakeholder-management skills.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines, particularly during payment and month-end closing cycles.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience working in a shared services, global business services, or international corporate accounting environment.
- Experience supporting German-speaking entities, vendors, or business units.
- Knowledge of vendor master data and bank information maintenance.
- Experience with invoice workflow and approval processes.
- Familiarity with payment blocks, payment proposals, payment runs, and open-item management in SAP.
- Experience with process improvement, standardization, or automation initiatives.
- Experience working with international teams and multicultural stakeholders.
- SAP-related training or certification.
- Knowledge of additional languages is an advantage.
Education and Certifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field preferred.
- Relevant vocational training or equivalent professional experience will also be considered.
- Professional accounting certifications are an advantage.
- SAP training or certification is a plus.
Core Competencies
- Accuracy and attention to detail: Carefully reviews financial information and identifies discrepancies before they affect payment or reporting activities.
- Flexibility: Adapts to changing priorities, processes, systems, and business requirements.
- Ownership and accountability: Takes responsibility for assigned activities and follows issues through to completion.
- Problem-solving: Analyzes invoice, vendor, and payment issues and proposes practical solutions.
- Communication: Communicates clearly and professionally in German and English.
- Organization: Manages multiple tasks, deadlines, and priorities effectively.
- Collaboration: Works constructively with AP, Procurement, Accounting, Treasury, vendors, and other stakeholders.
- Continuous improvement: Contributes ideas to improve efficiency, quality, and control within the accounts payable process.
Additional mandatory requirements:
Nationality or Work Authorization: Spanish or Portuguese nationality, or alternatively a permanent work permit/VISA for Spain or Portugal.
Why This Role Matters
This position plays an important role in ensuring that vendor invoices are processed accurately and on time, payment obligations are fulfilled, and financial information remains complete and reliable. Through strong attention to detail, German AP expertise, and effective use of SAP, the Accounts Payable Specialist will help maintain stable and efficient financial operations across Syntax.