Lead II Accountant, AR & Vendor Rebate

Staples is business to business. You're what binds us together.

Our talented finance team partners with every area of the business to drive results and provide financial expertise. We are passionate about analyzing and interpreting information to assess performance and provide guidance. Our team serves as a true partner and advisor to all our business leaders; working with them to accelerate the company's profitability and growth.

What you will be doing: As a Lead II Accountant, you will play a critical role in ensuring the accurate accounting and collection of approximately $2.0B in vendor programs. You will lead a high-performing team and partner cross-functionally with Merchandising, Category Merchants, and vendor partners to drive financial accuracy, process improvements, and operational excellence.

You'll take ownership of the vendor rebate month-end close process, ensuring compliance with SOX requirements and financial controls. This includes overseeing reconciliations, supporting external audits, and ensuring timely and accurate reporting of vendor receivables.

In this role, you will:

• Oversee accounting and collection of ~$2.0B in annual promotional vendor income
• Lead and develop a team of 4 associates, including hiring, coaching, and performance management
• Manage month-end close activities, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and compliance with SOX controls
• Collaborate with vendors and internal partners to resolve discrepancies and improve processes
• Facilitate monthly roadmap meetings with DMMs and Category Merchants to ensure vendor programs are properly captured and accounted for
• Provide leadership with insights on forecasts, financial risks, and opportunities related to vendor receivables

What You Bring to the Table: You are a results-driven accounting professional with strong leadership skills and a passion for driving financial accuracy and process improvement. You thrive in a fast-paced environment and are comfortable balancing multiple priorities while maintaining attention to detail.

• Proven leadership capability with experience motivating teams and driving performance
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess financial risk and forecast outcomes
• Ability to interpret supplier contracts and translate them into accurate financial reporting
• Excellent collaboration and communication skills to partner across internal teams and vendors
• A proactive mindset with a focus on continuous improvement and operational efficiency

What's needed: Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or equivalent work experience
• 6+ years of related accounting or financial experience
• 1+ years of Management experience
• Experience with financial systems/ERP platforms
• Strong understanding of accounting principles and internal controls

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with vendor rebate programs or accounts receivable
• Prior experience supporting external audits and financial reviews
• Experience partnering with merchandising or business teams in a corporate environment
• SOX experience preferred

We Offer: Inclusive culture with associate-led Business Resource Groups Flexible PTO (22 days) and Holiday Schedule (7 observed paid holidays) Online and Retail Discounts, Company Match 401(k), Physical and Mental Health Wellness programs.

Staples is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law

It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Staples is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other basis protected by federal, state, or local law.