Accounts Payable Lead

Company Description

Palmetto is a leading clean tech company on a mission to accelerate the transition to a clean energy future. With a belief that consumers can have it all, we are an uncompromising energy company that makes coming clean a no brainer. Our award-winning technology platform empowers homeowners, businesses, and entrepreneurs to adopt renewable energy through simple, scalable, and innovative solutions. Operating at the intersection of B2B and D2C, we offer software, financial products, and services that drive real environmental impact—without compromising value. We deliver end-to-end solutions for whole home electrification that put clean energy within reach for all. 

Our employees are our most valuable resource. We foster a promote-from-within culture that prioritizes talent development, career growth, and purpose-driven work. Palmetto offers a comprehensive benefits package—including unlimited PTO, medical, dental, and vision coverage, paid parental leave, retirement plans, and more—so you can have it all both personally and professionally. Palmetto prioritizes people, planet, and profit—backed by a culture that values collaboration, impact, and balance. Join us in building a brighter, cleaner world.

Location

This position will be based in Charlotte, NC

Reporting

This position will report to the Manager, Accounts Payable.

Summary of Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Accounts Payable Lead to join our dynamic team in the residential solar industry. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience managing high-volume AP operations, supporting and coaching team members, and ensuring the accurate and timely processing of invoices and payments. This role requires strong organizational skills, experience with milestone-based payments, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment while maintaining a positive and efficient work culture. 

Strategic & Tactical:

Accounts Payable & Vendor Management

• Execute and support the end-to-end Accounts Payable process, ensuring timely and accurate invoice processing in Stampli, NetSuite, and Navan.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for vendor inquiries, independently evaluating and resolving  invoice discrepancies, payment issues, and account inquiries in a timely and effective manner while ensuring compliance with company policies and procedures
• Process and review high-volume payments (including milestone-based payments), ensuring accuracy, compliance, and proper approvals.
• Monitor AP aging and follow up on outstanding invoices to support timely close and cash management.
• Ensure invoices are properly coded and routed through approval workflows in accordance with company policies.

Month-End Close & Financial Reporting

• Prepare and support month-end accruals, reconciliations, and close-related AP activities.
• Review AP transactions for accuracy and assist with AP-related journal entries as needed.
• Support internal and external audits by gathering documentation and explaining AP processes and transactions.
• Partner with accounting and finance teams to ensure AP activity is accurately reflected in the financial statements.

Continuous Improvement & Reporting

• Identify opportunities and recommend improvements to AP policies, processes, internal controls, procedures, and automation initiatives; support implementation to enhance efficiency, accuracy, and compliance. 
• Pull AP data and prepare standard and ad hoc reports as requested by accounting, finance, or leadership.
• Partner with IT and finance teams to support system enhancements and reporting improvements.
• Analyze payment cycles and vendor trends to highlight efficiency or cost-saving opportunities.

Team Support & Informal Leadership

• Act as a senior team member and subject-matter expert, providing day-to-day guidance and support to AP staff.
• Assist with training new hires and cross-training team members on systems, processes, and best practices.
• Help coordinate workload and priorities within the AP team to ensure deadlines are met.
• Contribute to a collaborative, positive, and high-performing team environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (or equivalent practical experience).
• 4+ years of progressive Accounts Payable experience; prior lead or senior-level responsibility preferred.
• Strong understanding of AP processes, vendor management, accruals, and month-end close support.
• Experience in high-volume, multi-entity environments; renewable energy experience is a plus but not required.
• Proficiency with AP and banking systems such as Stampli, NetSuite, Navan, and major banks (HSBC, JPM, BofA), or similar, preferred.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy, especially when handling large-dollar payments.
• Solid communication skills with the ability to work cross-functionally and support teammates.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment while maintaining organization, ownership, and accountability.

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. 

Equal Employment Opportunity

Palmetto embraces diversity and is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. Employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or any other status protected under federal, state, or local law.

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