AP Specialist (UK Timing)

The AP Specialist is responsible for managing the end-to-end accounts payable process across the UK and European entities, from invoice approval through to payment. Working closely with internal stakeholders across multiple locations, the postholder will help ensure accurate, timely and controlled processing of supplier transactions.

• Process supplier invoices against approved purchase orders in a timely manner, ensuring accurate coding to the general ledger.
• Work closely with colleagues across the business to ensure purchase orders are receipted in S/4HANA and to resolve discrepancies between purchase orders and supplier invoices.
• Maintain supplier master data, including updating supplier contact and banking information and setting up new suppliers as required.
• Ensure all invoices are processed with the correct VAT treatment and in compliance with relevant internal controls.
• Prepare and process weekly payment runs, including supplier payments, employee expenses, foreign currency transactions and ad hoc payments.
• Review aged creditor balances, investigate debit balances and follow up on invoices relating to direct debit payments.
• Perform supplier statement reconciliations and proactively investigate and resolve discrepancies between Accounts Payable balances and supplier statements.
• Prepare and maintain weekly cash flow forecasts to support effective financial planning and liquidity management.
• Prepare accounting entries for capitalisation of fixed assets.
• Complete bank postings and perform monthly bank reconciliations, ensuring all transactions are accurately recorded and resolved in a timely manner.
• Prepare and issue intercompany recharge invoices in accordance with internal procedures and reporting requirements.
• Prepare monthly accruals for the European entities in line with month-end reporting requirements.
• Support internal and external audit activity by providing documentation, analysis and responses to audit queries as required.
• Contribute to Accounts Payable projects, including system implementations, process enhancements and other ad hoc initiatives.
• Collaborate with the wider finance team to deliver a high standard of service to internal stakeholders.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance 
• At least 5 years of accounts payable experience
• Experience in a multinational or manufacturing environment preferred 

Technical Skills

• Experience with SAP or equivalent ERP systems 
• Intermediate to advanced Excel skills (reconciliations, pivots, analysis) 

Core Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and ownership mindset 
• Ability to work independently and meet close deadlines 
• Clear written and verbal communication skills 
• Analytical and problem‑solving capability 
• Ability to collaborate effectively across Finance and Operations