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 50000 - 60000 £ 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
Harmonic Finance is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture within a creative design scaleup that has seen impressive growth of 25% year-on-year. Located in beautifully designed offices in Central London, employees enjoy a collaborative atmosphere with opportunities for professional development and involvement in industry events, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in finance.
Contact Details:
Harmonic FinanceTM | Certified B Corp Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounts Payable Manager | Creative Design Scaleup | London / Hybrid
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Harmonic FinanceTM | Certified B Corp. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Accounts Payable Manager | Creative Design Scaleup | London / Hybrid
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Harmonic FinanceTM | Certified B Corp.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Harmonic FinanceTM | Certified B Corp's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harmonic FinanceTM | Certified B Corp
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Harmonic FinanceTM | Certified B Corp.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Harmonic FinanceTM | Certified B Corp will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Harmonic FinanceTM | Certified B Corp employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
