Invoice-to-Pay Africa Operations Manager

About the Role

This position as Manager, Supplier Operations for the NALI and PAB regions is based in Bangalore and falls under Unilever's Global Business Services. The role focuses on overseeing comprehensive supplier engagement processes spanning from contract management through to payments and supplier data administration. It ensures efficient, compliant, end-to-end management of supplier-related activities such as Contract-to-Pay, Vendor Master Data, Non-Strategic Sourcing fulfillment, Accounts Payable, and Travel & Expenses, linking procurement strategy with operational excellence.

The vision for Supplier Operations is to be recognized as a Best-in-Class solutions organization both internally and externally, balancing cost control with quality experience while maintaining strict discipline and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee smooth execution of invoice-to-pay operations ensuring seamless service delivery.
• Achieve and continuously enhance operational Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Handle escalation processes efficiently to address operational issues.
• Engage effectively with market stakeholders including controllers, procurement teams, and market leadership.
• Ensure compliance with operational controls and local statutory regulations while leading market audits.
• Implement global and local cost management initiatives to meet cost and cash flow objectives.
• Lead change management and operational governance within global and local transformation programs.
• Drive transformation projects focused on increasing organizational efficiency and effectiveness.
• Manage third-party relationships to ensure delivery of high-standard results.

Required Experience and Qualifications

• At least 10 years of professional experience in finance.
• Master's degree such as an MBA or equivalent is preferred.
• Practical understanding of Procure-to-Pay (P2P) processes and operations.

Skills and Expertise

• Strong analytical abilities to interpret finance data and processes.
• Business acumen with a focus on Accounts Payable, Vendor Onboarding, Contracting, and Procurement.
• Solid grasp of financial controls, particularly Unilever Global Financial Control Framework (GFCF).
• Excellent senior stakeholder engagement and project management skills.
• Proven ability to lead and manage diverse teams effectively.
• Knowledge of payment practices, electronic invoicing (E-Invoicing), and Evaluated Receipt Settlement (ERS) is an advantage.

Leadership Attributes

• Demonstrates a passion for high performance by taking ownership and driving results swiftly.
• Exhibits personal mastery by maintaining high standards and fostering personal resilience.
• Acts as a talent catalyst who mentors teams to realize their full potential and promotes inclusivity and collaboration.
• Incorporates consumer-centric thinking in all initiatives.
• Displays strong business acumen by identifying profitable growth opportunities.

Our Commitment

Unilever values diversity and inclusion, welcoming applicants regardless of race, gender, identity, or background. We are dedicated to fair recruitment and fostering growth for all employees. We encourage you to apply and contribute your unique perspective to drive impactful business and societal change.

Important Note

Official offers from Unilever will only be made through our Applicant Tracking System. Please exercise caution to avoid fraudulent communications.