Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in managing accounts payable and enhancing financial processes.
- Company: Join a creative design scaleup with a vibrant, inclusive culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, hybrid work, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: 5+ years of team management experience and a passion for motivating others.
- Other info: Work in beautifully designed offices in Central London with a collaborative atmosphere.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Harmonic are proud to have been engaged exclusively by a creative design scaleup growing 25% YOY in their search for an AP Manager. Strong people management experience is essential, as well as an individual who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment.
The Client
This role joins a business which has experienced 25% year-on-year growth, seeing turnover exceed £70m whilst delivering sustainable products and services. We are looking for an experienced AP professional with excellent managerial and stakeholder management skills, as well as an enthusiastic team-player who loves fast-paced, high volume AP environments. The business is recognised for their inclusive, down-to-earth culture. With beautifully designed offices in Central London, the team are highly collaborative, enjoy a sociable atmosphere, and regular involvement in design and industry events. They are viewed as highly entrepreneurial and are very reputable in their space.
The Role
This is a great opportunity for an experienced and technically strong Accounts Payable Manager to take ownership of a high-impact role. You'll lead a team of four, bringing structure, consistency, and clarity to the AP function. We're looking for someone who loves team management, and who can be the face of AP for the wider business. Our client is looking for someone who thrives in transactional finance, enjoys managing people, and brings a calm, methodical approach to balancing multiple priorities.
With significant investment planned across systems and processes, you'll also play a key role in transforming the purchase-to-pay cycle. There is strong appetite for automation and implementation of new processes, including use of AI, moving payment runs from Excel into NetSuite, redesigning the PO process, and introducing smarter, more insightful reporting.
Responsibilities
- Lead, support, and coach a team of four AP Assistants, encouraging their development and performance
- Establish KPIs for the team, hold regular 1-on-1 meetings, conduct appraisals and performance reviews
- Take full ownership of the Accounts Payable function across multiple entities
- Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy
- Oversee the timely and accurate processing of supplier invoices and execution of payment runs
- Manage the AP month-end close, including ledger reviews and reconciliations
- Monitor supplier accounts, ensuring statement reviews and resolution of aged items
- Collaborate with project and operational teams to ensure accurate PO alignment and approval workflows
- Establish and maintain strong internal controls across all AP procedures
- Prepare and manage cash flow forecasts linked to AP activity
- Oversee staff expenses and ensure corporate credit card transactions are accurately reconciled
- Act as a key point of contact for both internal stakeholders and external suppliers on AP-related queries
- Assist the Finance Manager with audit readiness and contribute to year-end reporting activities
What our client needs to see (essential)
- 5+ years of team management experience (ideally teams of 5+)
- A passion for upskilling and motivating teams
- Strong attention to detail and ability to thrive in high volume environments
- Excellent communication skills, with a proactive and solution-focused mindset
What our client would like to see (non-essential)
- Experience using NetSuite
- Exposure to multi-entity businesses
- Experience in product/stock based industry (retail, ecommerce, beauty, fashion, food & beverage, interiors, furniture)
Location
Central London / Hybrid (3 days in the office after probation)
Start date
ASAP (can be flexible)
At Harmonic, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace. We actively welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and assure you that every candidate will be thoughtfully considered for the roles we represent, without regard to race, religion, gender expression, disability, or sexual orientation.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Management, Accounting/Auditing, and Finance
Industries
Advertising Services, Design Services, and Accounting
Accounts Payable Manager | Creative Design Scaleup | London / Hybrid employer: Harmonic FinanceTM | Certified B Corp
Contact Detail:
Harmonic FinanceTM | Certified B Corp Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounts Payable Manager | Creative Design Scaleup | London / Hybrid
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the finance and design sectors. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company culture and values. Since this role is in a creative design scaleup, show your enthusiasm for their projects and how your experience aligns with their goals. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their growth!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your answers to common interview questions, especially around team management and process improvements. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and highlight your achievements effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your interest in the role can set you apart from other candidates. Plus, it shows your proactive attitude, which is key in a fast-paced environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Accounts Payable Manager | Creative Design Scaleup | London / Hybrid
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Team Spirit: We want to see your passion for team management! Highlight your experience in leading and motivating teams, especially in high-volume environments. Share specific examples of how you've upskilled your team members.
Be Detail-Oriented: Attention to detail is key in accounts payable. Make sure your application is free from typos and errors. We love candidates who can demonstrate their meticulous nature, so consider including examples of how you've improved accuracy in past roles.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor your application to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the job description. Mention your familiarity with systems like NetSuite or any process improvements you've implemented in previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and it helps us keep track of your application. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harmonic FinanceTM | Certified B Corp
✨Know Your Numbers
As an Accounts Payable Manager, you'll need to demonstrate your financial acumen. Brush up on key metrics related to AP, such as DPO (Days Payable Outstanding) and invoice processing times. Be ready to discuss how you've improved these metrics in past roles.
✨Showcase Your Team Management Skills
This role requires strong people management experience, so prepare examples of how you've led and developed teams. Think about specific challenges you've faced and how you motivated your team to overcome them. Highlight your approach to performance reviews and setting KPIs.
✨Emphasise Process Improvement
The company is looking for someone who can identify and implement process improvements. Come prepared with examples of how you've streamlined AP processes in the past, especially if you've worked with automation tools or systems like NetSuite. Discuss any innovative solutions you've introduced.
✨Be a Collaborative Communicator
Since this role involves liaising with various stakeholders, practice articulating your communication style. Prepare to discuss how you've built relationships with internal teams and external suppliers. Show that you can be the face of AP while maintaining a calm and methodical approach.
