Accounts Payable Team Leader

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Accounts Payable Team Leader to join a thriving finance function based in South Manchester This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a shared services environment and is passionate about delivering high-quality transactional services.

As an Accounts Payable Team Leader based in South Manchester, you will be entrusted with guiding a dedicated team of AP Specialists towards achieving excellence in transactional finance operations. Your day-to-day responsibilities will involve overseeing all aspects of invoice processing from initial capture through to payment execution while maintaining rigorous standards of accuracy and compliance. You will play a central role in monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs), analysing trends to identify areas for improvement, and implementing changes that enhance both efficiency and stakeholder satisfaction.

Key duties include:

• Oversee the daily operations of the Accounts Payable team, ensuring all invoice processing activities are completed accurately and efficiently in line with company policies and governance frameworks.
• Monitor individual and team objectives closely, aligning them with wider finance strategies while providing regular feedback and supporting professional development for each team member.
• Allocate responsibilities effectively across the team using best-practice workforce management principles to ensure optimal resource utilisation and timely outcomes.
• Lead performance management processes constructively by setting clear expectations, addressing underperformance sensitively, and nurturing a high-performance culture built on trust and respect.
• Supervise the accurate processing of invoices through Documation and related store systems, ensuring correct coding, approvals, compliance checks, and prompt resolution of any discrepancies.
• Oversee supplier statement reconciliations to the accounts payable ledger, managing accruals reporting and resolving issues such as duplicate or incorrect postings using Xelix software.
• Act as the primary point of contact for escalated queries relating to ledger management or system issues, providing responsive solutions-focused service to internal stakeholders and suppliers alike.

To excel as an Accounts Payable Team Leader in this dynamic shared services environment, you will bring substantial experience managing transactional finance teams within high-volume settings. Your background should include hands-on involvement with automated invoice processing systems such as Documation alongside comprehensive knowledge of ERP platforms like SAP

Ideally you should have experience in the following:

• Proven experience managing or supervising an Accounts Payable team within a shared services or high-volume environment is essential for success in this position.
• Demonstrated expertise in end-to-end accounts payable processes including invoice workflows, quality checking procedures, control implementation, and audit compliance is highly desirable.
• Hands-on experience using invoice automation tools such as Documation alongside ERP systems like SAP is required to ensure seamless operations across multiple business units.
• AAT qualification or active progress towards a recognised accounting qualification would be advantageous but is not mandatory for consideration.
• Advanced IT proficiency with MS Office applications—particularly Excel—is necessary for effective data analysis, reporting tasks, and process optimisation initiatives.
• Exceptional communication skills are vital; you should feel comfortable liaising with both internal stakeholders across departments as well as external suppliers on complex matters.
• A collaborative approach combined with resilience under pressure enables you to balance competing priorities while maintaining high standards of accuracy throughout all tasks undertaken.
• Experience supporting multi-country operations or international suppliers—and fluency in additional European languages—would be beneficial but not essential for this role.

This organisation stands out for its unwavering commitment to creating an inclusive workplace where every employee’s contribution is recognised and celebrated. The finance function operates within a modern shared services model that prioritises collaboration over hierarchy—ensuring that knowledge sharing is embedded into everyday practice. Employees benefit from flexible working opportunities designed to promote work-life balance without compromising on career progression; generous pension contributions further underscore the company’s investment in long-term wellbeing. T

If you are ready to take the next step in your career journey within accounts payable leadership—where your expertise will be valued and your growth supported—we encourage you to apply now!

Apply today by clicking on the link provided; we look forward to connecting with talented individuals who share our passion for excellence.

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates