Senior Accounts Payable specialist

Robert Walters are supporting a client in there search for their next Senior accounts payable specialist within the Watford, area offering c40K.

As the Accounts specialist you will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operation of the accounts payable function, ensuring invoices, employee expenses, credit notes, and supplier payments are processed accurately, efficiently, and in accordance with company policies and relevant financial regulations.

This role provides leadership to the accounts payable team while maintaining a hands-on approach to daily operations. The successful candidate will work closely with internal stakeholders and external suppliers to resolve queries, improve processes, and maintain strong financial controls.

This position combines operational management, team leadership, and continuous process improvement within a fast-paced finance environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily activities of the accounts payable function to ensure efficient and accurate processing.
• Lead, coach, and support members of the accounts payable team.
• Ensure the timely processing of supplier invoices, credit notes, employee expenses, and payment requests.
• Coordinate payment runs and support effective cash flow management.
• Reconcile supplier accounts and resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.
• Act as the primary escalation point for supplier queries and payment-related issues.
• Maintain compliance with company policies, financial controls, and relevant tax and regulatory requirements.
• Monitor key performance indicators and identify opportunities to improve service delivery and efficiency.
• Work collaboratively with finance and operational teams to support effective purchasing and payment processes.
• Assist with system improvements, process enhancements, and automation initiatives where appropriate.
• Support month-end and year-end financial reporting activities.

Ideal Candidate Profile

Qualifications

• Relevant qualification in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related discipline is desirable.
• Professional accounting qualifications or finance-related certifications are advantageous but not essential.
• Equivalent practical experience will also be considered.

Experience

• Previous experience within an accounts payable function, including leadership or supervisory responsibilities.
• Strong understanding of end-to-end accounts payable processes.
• Experience managing supplier relationships and resolving complex queries.
• Exposure to financial systems and accounting software.
• Experience working within established financial controls and compliance requirements.

Skills

Technical Skills

• Sound knowledge of accounts payable principles and best practices.
• Experience using accounting or ERP systems.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Excel and other finance-related software.
• Ability to identify and implement process improvements.

Problem Solving

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to investigate and resolve discrepancies.
• Confident in handling supplier issues and finding practical solutions.

Communication

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to build positive working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Comfortable communicating with individuals at all levels of the organisation.

Attention to Detail

• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong commitment to maintaining data integrity and financial accuracy.

Personal Attributes

• Hands-on approach with the ability to balance operational responsibilities and team leadership.
• Proactive, organised, and able to manage competing priorities.
• Continuous improvement mindset with a focus on efficiency and service excellence.
• High level of integrity, professionalism, and accountability.
• Customer-focused approach when supporting both internal stakeholders and external suppliers.

Why Join This Role?

• Opportunity to lead an important finance function.
• Variety of responsibilities across leadership, operations, and process improvement.
• Collaborative working environment with exposure to cross-functional projects.
• Opportunity to contribute to ongoing improvements in systems, processes, and financial controls.

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