Head of Accounts Payable

Head of Accounts Payable

Salary: 50,000 - 60,000 per annum + Benefits

Full time, Permanent role

Location: Cumbria (Hybrid - 3 days per week in the office)

Client Details

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Head of Accounts Payable to lead our Procure-to-Pay (P2P) and cash management functions. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a growing organisation and play a key role in driving process excellence, standardisation and continuous improvement across the finance function.

Description

The key responsibilities of a Head of Accounts Payable will include:

• Lead the end-to-end Accounts Payable and Procure-to-Pay process, ensuring timely invoice processing, approvals, and supplier payments.
• Oversee the cash management cycle, including accounting, reconciliation, forecasting, and reporting.
• Take ownership of the Purchase Order system, driving consistency, compliance, and standardisation across the business.
• Lead automation and technology projects to improve efficiency and strengthen financial controls.
• Produce accurate reporting, including AP ageing, accruals, payment forecasts, and management information.
• Develop and monitor KPIs for the P2P and cash management functions, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
• Manage team resources effectively to ensure key deadlines are met, particularly during month-end close and payment runs.
• Support the month-end process by reviewing site performance against budget and posting relevant journals.
• Conduct regular reviews of transactions, identifying potential capital expenditure and prepayment adjustments where required.
• Coach, develop, and support team members, ensuring the finance function continues to evolve in line with organisational growth.

Profile

The Successful Head of Accounts Payable will include:

• Previous experience leading Accounts Payable, Procure-to-Pay, or transactional finance teams.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build relationships across all areas of the business.
• Experience working with ERP systems, ideally within a complex or multi-site environment.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and strong financial systems knowledge.
• A proven track record of delivering process improvements, automation projects, and operational efficiencies.
• The ability to manage competing priorities and meet tight deadlines within a fast-paced environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen eye for detail.

Job Offer

• A salary between 50,000 - 60,000 per annum
• Hybrid working - 3 days in office, 2 days working from home
• Generous annual leave entitlement with option to buy more
• Flexible core hours
• Pension
• Free on site car parking
• Great company culture with opportunities to progress