Job Description
About the Role
We are seeking a detail-focused Accounts Payable Officer to support the delivery of an efficient, customer-centred financial processing service. The role involves working with SAP to process purchase order invoices, non-order payments, and a variety of financial transactions accurately and within strict deadlines.
The successful candidate will play a vital part in maintaining financial controls, supporting the Procure-to-Pay (P2P) process, resolving supplier queries, and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. This position is ideal for someone with strong numeracy skills, excellent organisational ability and a commitment to delivering high-quality transactional services.
Key Responsibilities
Accounts Payable Processing
Process invoices, credits, certificates, non-order payments, consolidated uploads, staff expenses, and emergency UK/foreign payments accurately and on time.
Ensure all transactions comply with financial regulations, internal controls and Contract Standing Orders (CSOs).
Assess and correctly apply VAT rules and CIS (Construction Industry Scheme) deductions.
Use duplicate/erroneous payment software to identify and prevent incorrect payments and make necessary amendments to the financial database.
Supplier & Stakeholder Engagement
Build and maintain positive relationships with vendors by reconciling statements, resolving discrepancies, and addressing queries promptly.
Work collaboratively with internal stakeholders to secure goods receipt notes and approvals required for invoice processing.
Promote best practice in P2P processes, supporting colleagues to follow correct procedures.
Data Management & Administration
Update and maintain IT systems, spreadsheets and databases, ensuring data quality and accuracy.
Utilise reports and workflows within SAP to manage work efficiently.
Undertake general administrative duties including telephone communication, mail handling and document processing.
Pursue outstanding debts as required.
Customer Service & Governance
Champion excellent customer service and provide a business-friendly financial support function.
Ensure confidentiality and discretion when handling sensitive financial information.
Support organisational compliance with financial controls, anti-fraud measures and relevant policies.
Demonstrate environmental and social responsibility by minimising waste, reusing resources and making sustainable choices.
Corporate Responsibilities
Contribute to the delivery of the Council Plan and organisational values.
Participate actively in team meetings, training, performance management and continuous improvement activities.
Uphold equal opportunities and non-discriminatory practices in all aspects of work.
Ensure compliance with health and safety legislation and internal safety standards.
RequirementsIdeal Candidate Profile
Qualifications & Training
Desirable:
AAT or similar business-related qualification.
Knowledge of anti-fraud practices and prevention techniques.
Understanding of CIS, IR35 and VAT regulations.
Evidence of ongoing professional development.
Experience
Essential:
Proven experience in accounts payable or a similar financial processing role.
Data entry experience within a finance environment (SAP knowledge desirable but not essential).
Skills & Abilities
Essential:
Strong verbal and written communication skills, clear and jargon-free.
Good numeracy skills with the ability to calculate, check and interpret figures.
Excellent organisational and time-management abilities with the capacity to prioritise work.
Ability to work independently, use initiative and solve problems effectively.
Confident IT skills with competency in Microsoft Office and financial systems.
Ability to work well within a team and contribute to team objectives.
High attention to detail, accuracy and methodical working approach.
Ability to handle confidential information responsibly.
Good understanding of VAT, IR35 and CIS regulations.
Ability to interpret policies, procedures and quality standards relevant to transactional finance work.
Strong relationship-building skills with internal colleagues, suppliers and stakeholders.
Desirable:
Ability to identify and suggest improvements to processes or systems.
Additional Working Requirements
Ability to work in a hybrid environment according to service needs.
Willingness to adapt to changing priorities within the organisation.
BenefitsWhy Join?
Play a key role in ensuring accurate and compliant financial processes.
Work within a supportive and collaborative finance team.
Opportunities for professional development and gaining experience with SAP and local government finance.
Hybrid working arrangements supporting work-life balance.
How to Apply
If you are organised, detail-driven and confident in managing financial processes, click ‘Apply Now’ or submit your CV directly to:
Requirements
PERSON SPECIFICATION Essential Requirements Competencies Putting Customers First – Level 3 Getting Things Done – Level 3 Taking Personal Responsibility – Level 3 Seeking to Understand Others & Treating Them with Respect – Level 3 Education & Training Qualified Solicitor, Barrister, or equivalent. Holds a current practising certificate or equivalent qualification with the ability to practise. Experience / Knowledge Experience equivalent to completing a 2-year training contract, BPTC, or comparable training route. Knowledge of and experience within the procurement and contracts functional area. Post-qualification experience aligned with the responsibilities and seniority of this role. Understanding of relevant legal frameworks associated with procurement and non-contentious corporate matters. Skills & Abilities Excellent written and oral communication skills. Strong drafting skills. Ability to work flexibly and collaboratively as part of a team. Able to work independently with minimal supervision. Ability to learn and apply relevant legislation to provide sound legal advice. Ability to guide and supervise legal assistants and administrative staff. Personal Attributes Effective team member with strong interpersonal skills. Commitment to delivering high-quality work. Able to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Dedication to upholding the organisation’s equality, professionalism, and quality standards. Special Circumstances Strong understanding of confidentiality and commitment to maintaining it.
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