What are the responsibilities and job description for the Lead Accounting Specialist - Pharmacy position at Associated Food Stores?
Job Summary
The Lead Pharmacy Accounting Specialist (50041) leads and oversees pharmacy receivables and disbursements utilizing advanced accounting systems and analytics. This role provides guidance to cross-functional teams, including insurance partners, pharmacy operations, and store leadership, to proactively resolve complex account discrepancies, optimize financial workflows, and ensure compliance with regulatory and organizational standards. Drives process improvements and supports financial decision-making through data-driven insights and cross-departmental collaboration.
**Essential Duties**
Associated Food Stores is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.
The Lead Pharmacy Accounting Specialist (50041) leads and oversees pharmacy receivables and disbursements utilizing advanced accounting systems and analytics. This role provides guidance to cross-functional teams, including insurance partners, pharmacy operations, and store leadership, to proactively resolve complex account discrepancies, optimize financial workflows, and ensure compliance with regulatory and organizational standards. Drives process improvements and supports financial decision-making through data-driven insights and cross-departmental collaboration.
**Essential Duties**
- Lead the management and reconciliation of pharmacy receivables, ensuring accurate and timely application of payments across multiple systems
- Oversee daily financial operations including cash receipts, disbursements, intercompany transfers, and petty cash, ensuring compliance with internal controls
- Lead the monthly reconciliation of third-party pharmacy receivables to the general ledger, identifying and resolving discrepancies proactively
- Serve as a key liaison with insurance carriers and PBM partners to resolve escalated payment issues and drive timely collections
- Monitor aging reports and implement strategic collection initiatives to reduce outstanding balances and improve cash flow
- Partner cross-functionally with pharmacy operations, finance, and external trade partners to resolve account issues and streamline processes
- Mentor and support team members, fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement
- Lead or contribute to special projects and process enhancements as assigned
- Associate degree in a related field; bachelor's degree preferred
- 5 years of relevant experience; retail pharmacy experience preferred
- Strong knowledge of credit policies, accounting, and bookkeeping principles
- Knowledge of collection regulations and fair credit practices
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office
- Excellent communication, customer service, and problem-solving skills
- A Lead Accounting Specialist for pharmacy must have the ability to manage multiple tasks and maintain confidentiality
- Office-based work with prolonged sitting and computer use
- Regular on-site attendance required
Associated Food Stores is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit unlawful discrimination against applicants or employees based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.