Accounts Payable/Receivable Officer (FTC) in London

The Opportunity

If you're looking for an opportunity to join a busy, fast-paced finance team where accuracy, organisation and strong stakeholder management are key, this is an excellent opportunity to join a leading UK rail operator on a 12-month fixed-term contract.

We are seeking an experienced Accounts Payable / Receivable Officer to support the day-to-day operation of both the purchase and sales ledger functions. Working closely with the Accounts Receivable & Payable Manager and Financial Controller, you will play an important role in ensuring the efficient processing of financial transactions, maintaining accurate financial records and delivering excellent support to both suppliers and customers.

This role offers the opportunity to work within a well-established finance function responsible for managing a large supplier network and high transaction volumes. You will take ownership of end-to-end Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable processes, helping to ensure financial controls, compliance requirements and service standards are consistently achieved.

You'll join a collaborative and supportive team environment where your contribution will directly support the smooth running of the wider Finance function while allowing you to further develop your accounting and finance experience.

Accounts Payable / Receivable Officer Responsibilities

• Invoice Processing: Process supplier invoices accurately and efficiently, ensuring transactions are correctly coded, approved and recorded within agreed timescales.
• Purchase Ledger Management: Maintain supplier accounts, monitor outstanding balances and ensure timely payment processing.
• Sales Ledger Administration: Support the Accounts Receivable function through customer invoicing, receipt allocation and account reconciliations.
• Supplier & Customer Queries: Act as a key point of contact for suppliers and customers, promptly resolving invoice, payment and account-related queries.
• Financial Controls & Compliance: Ensure all financial processes are carried out in line with company procedures, internal controls and audit requirements.
• VAT Compliance: Assist with VAT-related activities and ensure transactions are processed in accordance with current VAT regulations.
• Account Reconciliations: Perform regular supplier and customer account reconciliations, investigating and resolving discrepancies where required.
• Month-End Support: Provide support during month-end close activities, ensuring financial information is complete, accurate and submitted within deadlines.
• Records Management: Maintain accurate financial records and documentation to support reporting, auditing and compliance requirements.
• Stakeholder Collaboration: Work closely with colleagues across the Finance team and wider business to support efficient financial operations and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Performance & Service Delivery: Contribute to the smooth and efficient running of the Finance department by consistently delivering high levels of accuracy and customer service.

Ideal Accounts Payable / Receivable Officer

• Accounting Qualification: AAT qualified or currently studying towards a recognised accounting qualification.
• Finance Experience: Minimum 2-3 years' experience within an Accounts Payable, Accounts Receivable or similar finance position.
• Purchase & Sales Ledger Knowledge: Strong understanding of Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable processes, including invoice processing and account management.
• Systems Experience: Proficient in Microsoft Office applications. Experience using Oracle E-Business Suite would be advantageous but is not essential.
• VAT Knowledge: A good understanding of VAT requirements and financial compliance processes.
• Attention to Detail: Exceptional accuracy and commitment to maintaining high-quality financial records.
• Time Management: Ability to prioritise workloads and meet tight deadlines within a fast-paced environment.
• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to build effective relationships with suppliers, customers and colleagues.
• Teamwork: A collaborative and supportive approach with a willingness to contribute to team success.
• Confidentiality & Professionalism: Ability to handle sensitive financial information with discretion and professionalism.

Location & Working Arrangements

• Location: London (SE1)
• Working Pattern: Monday to Friday, standard office hours
• Working Arrangement: Office-based initially, with hybrid working available following successful completion of onboarding, training and competency requirements.

Accounts Payable / Receivable Officer Salary & Benefits

• Salary: £30,000 - £35,000 per annum, dependent on experience
• Benefits: 12-month fixed-term contract providing valuable experience within a leading rail organisation. Hybrid working available following successful training and onboarding. Opportunity to join a well-established and supportive Finance team. Exposure to a high-volume, commercial finance environment. Opportunity to further develop accounting and finance skills within a respected organisation.