Senior Accounts Payable Specialist

Job Title: Senior Accounts Payable Specialist
Hours of Work: 37.5 per week
Reporting To: Financial Controller
Department: Finance
Sarlary: £35,000 - £40,000 pa
Location: Central London (4 days on site / 1 day from home)

Job Purpose

The Senior Accounts Payable Specialist will play a key role in managing and enhancing the Accounts Payable (AP) process. This position will focus on process improvements, financial accuracy, and adherence to purchase-to-pay (P2P) procedures. The role requires collaboration with internal and external stakeholders, cost analysis, and ensuring compliance with financial policies.

Key Responsibilities

• Work closely with procurement, finance, and other internal teams to ensure compliance with P2P processes and identify areas for improvement.

• Analyse key cost areas within the AP function, identifying cost drivers and providing actionable insights to support decision-making and cost efficiency.

• Collaborate with finance transformation teams to enhance AP processes and implement controls that improve accuracy and efficiency.

• Monitor AP performance, identifying and implementing best practices to enhance operational effectiveness.

• Oversee invoice processing, discrepancy resolution, supplier statement reconciliations, and record maintenance in line with company policies and regulatory requirements.

• Provide guidance to junior AP staff, ensuring accurate task completion and supporting professional development.

• Undertake ad-hoc financial tasks as required.

Person Specification

Qualifications:

• A qualification in accounting or finance is desirable (e.g., AAT, part-qualified ACCA, or CIMA).

• Degree level or equivalent (desirable).

Experience:

• 3-5 years of experience in Accounts Payable or a related finance role.

• Experience in people management.

• Familiarity with finance systems such as SUN and Proactis (desirable).

• Previous experience in a healthcare environment (desirable).

Skills and Knowledge:

• Strong understanding of P2P and AP processes, with experience managing complex AP functions.

• Proficiency in finance systems and digital tools for AP improvements.

• Ability to perform cost analysis and communicate financial insights effectively.

• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage high transaction volumes accurately.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for liaising with internal teams and suppliers.

Attributes and Qualities:

• Proactive, solution-focused approach to AP challenges.

• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with a strong sense of accountability.

• Flexibility to adapt to changing priorities and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.