Senior AP Specialist

Who We Are

Authentic is a unified platform that integrates M&A, brand strategy, creativity and digital innovation to unlock the power of its global Lifestyle and Entertainment portfolio. As the world’s largest sports and entertainment licensing company, Authentic connects strong brands with best-in-class partners to optimize long-term value in the marketplace. Its brands generate more than $38 billion in global annual retail sales and have an expansive retail footprint in more than 150 countries, including 13,000-plus freestanding stores and shop-in-shops and 400,000 points of sale. Authentic transforms brands by delivering powerful storytelling, compelling content, innovative business models and immersive experiences. It creates original marketing strategies to drive the success of its brands across all consumer touchpoints, platforms and emerging media

 Why Authentic

 You’ll be able to access the resources and scale, while leveraging innovative technology and nimble environment. What we’re saying is, this isn’t your average day job. If you’re hungry to drive ideas into action and own your career, let’s chat. Our team is rapidly innovating to evolve and define the future of our brands. With the help of some of the brightest minds in retail, marketing, licensing, legal and more, we are building the intersection of digital and experiential marketing to help achieve that mission. We reimagine, evolve and transform brands! At Authentic, we foster an inclusive workplace where diversity of thought and expertise drive competitive advantage. Our global teams are built by go-getters who contribute unique perspectives and push the boundaries of creativity and innovation. Headquartered in New York City, Authentic has offices in major metropolitan cities including Los Angeles and Miami, as well as Toronto, Mexico City, London, and Shanghai.

What You'll Do 

The Senior AP Specialist will join the EMEAI finance function of Authentic Brands Group. Reporting directly to the Senior Finance Manager, the Senior AP Specialist will support the business in all day-to-day Accounts Payable (AP) activities related to ABG’s Authentic licensing business across its portfolio of Entertainment and Lifestyle brands. This role is responsible for ensuring accurate and timely processing of supplier invoices and payments, maintaining strong internal controls, and partnering with internal stakeholders and external vendors to support smooth operations.

What You'll Be Working On

Accounts Payable Operations

• Own end-to-end AP processing, including invoice receipt, coding, approvals workflow, posting, and payment execution.
• Ensure invoices are processed accurately, on time, and in accordance with ABG policies and agreed payment terms.
• Manage supplier onboarding and maintenance (vendor setup, bank details changes, validation checks).
• Monitor the AP inbox/workflow queues and maintain clear service levels for stakeholder requests.
• Prepare and execute weekly payment runs, ensuring correct approvals and bank controls.

Invoice Validation, Approvals & Controls

• Validate invoice accuracy (entity, VAT/tax requirements, PO/contract references, correct coding).
• Ensure appropriate authorisation is obtained in line with ABG’s Delegation of Authority and internal controls.
• Support PO/non-PO processes as applicable and help drive adherence to procurement/approval policies.
• Maintain audit-ready documentation and support internal/external audit requests.

Month End Close

• Perform bank reconciliations for all accounts within the EMEAI region
• Reconcile AP sub ledger to the general ledger; investigate and resolve variances.
• Support month-end close activities including accruals, AP aging reviews, and cutoff procedures.
• Manage supplier statement reconciliations and resolve discrepancies promptly.

Stakeholder & Vendor Management

• Act as a key point of contact for vendor queries, disputes, and escalations; ensure professional, timely resolution.
• Partner with the business to resolve invoice issues and improve processes.

Process Improvement & Reporting

• Identify opportunities to streamline AP processes and strengthen controls (workflow optimisation, automation, standardisation).
• Maintain AP KPIs (aging, cycle times, blocked invoices, payment timeliness) and provide regular reporting to the Senior Finance Manager.

Must Haves

• 5+ years of experience in Accounts Payable / finance operations
• Experience working with ERP systems and AP workflows (NetSuite desirable)
• AAT / equivalent finance qualification is desirable; relevant degree or professional qualification (ACCA/CIMA/ACA part-qualified) is a plus.
• Strong understanding of end-to-end Accounts Payable processes and internal control frameworks.
• Solid knowledge of VAT/tax considerations relevant to EMEAI invoice processing.
• High attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
• Confident communicator able to work effectively with internal stakeholders and external vendors.
• Proactive problem-solver with a continuous improvement mindset.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, evolving, multi-entity environment.

 

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Please note:

• All legitimate Authentic job postings can be found only on our official website (authentic.com) or through our verified LinkedIn page (https://www.linkedin.com/company/weareauthentic).
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