Purchase Ledger Clerk – High-Volume Invoicing & VAT in Gateshead

About Argenbright Security Europe

Argenbright Security Europe Limited (ASEL) is a leading provider of integrated security solutions across the United Kingdom and Europe. We combine advanced security technology with highly trained security professionals to deliver intelligent, risk-based security services to commercial clients. Due to continued growth within the business, we are seeking a highly organised and detail-focused Purchase Ledger Clerk to join our Finance team at our Rochdale office. This role plays a critical part in maintaining accurate financial records, ensuring timely invoicing, and supporting strong relationships with our customers through effective accounts receivable management.

Key Responsibilities

• Invoice Processing and Reconciliation
  • Timely and accurate processing of high-volume supplier invoices, including those received in foreign currencies.
  • Reconciling purchase orders and delivery notes to invoices to ensure accuracy prior to payment.
  • Reconciling supplier statements on a regular basis to maintain ledger integrity.
  • Ensuring correct VAT treatment is applied to all invoices and that records meet compliance requirements.
  • Maintaining accurate purchase ledger records within Sage 200.
• Supplier Account Management
  • Creating new supplier accounts and maintaining the accuracy of existing supplier records.
  • Managing multiple supplier accounts simultaneously, including those operating in foreign currencies.
  • Updating payment terms, contact details, and banking information in line with internal authorisation procedures.
  • Processing authorised supplier payments in accordance with agreed payment schedules.
• Query Identification and Resolution
  • Identifying, investigating, and resolving invoice-related queries from suppliers or internal teams.
  • Liaising with operational and procurement departments to resolve discrepancies in a timely manner.
  • Escalating unresolved queries appropriately and maintaining clear records of query status.
• Process Improvement and Cross-Functional Working
  • Working across departments to address upstream problems that impact the purchase ledger function.
  • Contributing to process improvement initiatives to drive efficiency and accuracy within accounts payable.
  • Identifying opportunities for cost savings and actively supporting a cost-conscious culture within the finance team.
  • Cross-training with and providing cover for other team members where required.
• Finance and Compliance Support
  • Ensuring all purchase ledger activity complies with internal financial procedures and VAT regulations.
  • Maintaining organised and audit-ready records to support financial reporting requirements.
  • Supporting the wider finance team during month-end processes and general administration duties as required.

Skills and Experience

Essential

• Demonstrable experience working on large purchase ledgers, including handling in excess of 500 invoices per week.
• Experience managing accounts involving foreign currency transactions.
• Strong working knowledge of Sage 200 or a comparable purchase ledger system.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills with the ability to work with large data sets accurately.
• High level of accuracy and meticulous attention to detail.
• Proven ability to work under pressure and meet strict deadlines without compromising quality.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to liaise professionally with suppliers and internal stakeholders.
• A proactive attitude with a genuine drive to identify cost-saving opportunities.

Desirable

• Previous experience within a service-based organisation.
• Understanding of VAT regulations and financial compliance processes.
• Desire to cross-train and assist other members of the finance team.
• Ability to contribute to process improvements and work collaboratively across departments to address root cause issues.

What We Offer

• £26,500 per annum salary.
• 25 days holiday plus BH.
• Perkbox recognition and employee rewards platform.
• Employee of the Month recognition scheme (£50 award).
• 110 Percent Club recognising outstanding performance.
• WageStream flexible pay access platform.
• Employee Assistance Programme.
• Career progression opportunities within a growing organisation.
• Ongoing training and professional development.

Equality and Diversity

Argenbright Security Europe values the diverse skills and experience of its employees and is committed to creating an inclusive working environment where individuals are treated with dignity and respect. We are proud to be an equal opportunities employer.