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.
- Other info: Work in beautifully designed offices in Central London with a collaborative atmosphere.
- 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.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 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 Finance™ | Certified B Corp
Harmonic Finance™ is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture within a creative design scaleup that has achieved impressive 25% year-on-year growth. Located in beautifully designed offices in Central London, employees enjoy a collaborative atmosphere with opportunities for professional development, innovative projects, and regular engagement in industry events, making it a truly rewarding place to advance your career in finance.
Contact Detail:
Harmonic Finance™ | 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 pitch! You want to be able to clearly articulate your experience in team management and AP processes. Highlight your achievements and how you’ve improved efficiency in past roles. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate candidates who fit the bill. Let’s get you that interview!
We think you need these skills to ace Accounts Payable Manager | Creative Design Scaleup | London / Hybrid
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience mentioned in the job description. Highlight your team management experience and any relevant achievements in high-volume AP environments to catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to showcase your passion for accounts payable and team management. Share specific examples of how you've led teams and improved processes in previous roles, as this will resonate with us.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since excellent communication is key for this role, make sure your application is clear and concise. Use a friendly tone and demonstrate your proactive mindset throughout your written application.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. This way, we can easily track your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harmonic Finance™ | 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 previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Team Management Skills
Since strong people management experience is essential, prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams. Think about specific challenges you've faced, how you motivated your team, and the outcomes of your leadership. This will show that you're not just a numbers person but also a great leader.
✨Emphasise Process Improvement Experience
The role involves transforming the purchase-to-pay cycle, so be prepared to talk about any process improvements you've implemented in the past. Highlight your experience with automation and any systems like NetSuite that you've used to enhance efficiency.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills. For instance, how would you handle a late supplier payment or a discrepancy in invoices? Practising these scenarios can help you articulate your thought process clearly during the interview.
