Accounts Payable Manager (Permanent) in Manchester

Reference: 4840863Job ID: 5422176Posted: 2026-10-28Closing date: 2027-01-26Location: Manchester/Remote workingSalary: 40-45000paJob type: PermanentWorking pattern: Full timeIndustry: Accountancy Firms / SupportCompany: HaysConsultant: Joanna Taylor-CoburnHays office: Manchester — 5th Floor, City Tower, Piccadilly PlazaPhone: 01619268605Email: joanna.taylor-coburn@hays.comYour new companyAn exciting opportunity has arisen for a highly experienced Accounts Payable Manager to join a fast-paced and evolving organisation. This is a remote role based in Manchester and would suit an accomplished AP leader who has successfully managed large overseas Accounts Payable teams. Your new roleAs Accounts Payable Manager, you will take ownership of the AP function, leading and developing a sizeable remote team whilst ensuring a high standard of accuracy, control and service. A key part of this position will be managing an overseas AP team of approximately 20+ people, so previous experience of successfully leading a remote/international finance team of this size is essential.

Your responsibilities will include:

Leading, managing and developing a large overseas Accounts Payable team, including 2 direct reportsTaking overall responsibility for the day-to-day AP function and performance of the teamManaging high-volume invoice processing and approval workflowsReviewing work completed by the team and ensuring consistently high levels of accuracyManaging supplier ledgers, statement reconciliations, payment runs and queriesDeveloping and improving AP processes, controls and automationIdentifying areas for greater efficiency across the functionManaging workloads, priorities and deadlines across a remotely based teamHandling escalations and resolving more complex supplier or stakeholder queriesBuilding effective working relationships with internal stakeholders, suppliers and clientsReviewing and approving transactions and documentation within the accounting systemSetting clear expectations and maintaining accountability across the teamWhat you'll need to succeedThis role requires an experienced AP Manager, rather than someone looking to take their first step into management.

You will need: Extensive Accounts Payable experience, with strong technical knowledge of the full AP functionA proven track record of successfully leading and developing Accounts Payable teamsPrevious experience managing a large remote/overseas AP team, ideally 20+ employeesA minimum of 3 years' AP management experienceExperience working within a high-volume, fast-paced finance environmentStrong people-management skills and the confidence to manage performance and set clear expectationsA resilient and headstrong approach, with the confidence to work effectively with strong personalitiesThe emotional intelligence to adapt your communication style and tone depending on the individual or situation, whilst remaining professionalExcellent communication and stakeholder-management skillsConfidence dealing with challenging conversations, escalations and conflictA proactive, solutions-focused approach with the ability to challenge existing processes constructivelyStrong organisational skills and the ability to prioritise effectively under pressureAdvanced Excel skills and good overall Microsoft Office knowledgeExperience with accounting/ERP systems such as NetSuite, Xero, QuickBooks, Sage or similarExperience of process improvement, controls and automated approval workflowsWhat you'll get in returnYou will be joining a growing and fast-paced environment where you can take genuine ownership of the Accounts Payable function and have a real influence over how the team operates.

The role offers: Permanent position Competitive salary 40-45,000 depending on experienceBased in Manchester - Remote working (occasional office working maybe required)Working hours of 9.00am–5.30pm with a one-hour lunchSupport towards professional qualifications 30 days holiday entitlement pro rata (including Bank Holidays) with an additional day for each year of service, plus 2 mental health days for your benefit when a break is needed.

Pension schemeEmployee Assistance Programme and professional development supportEnhanced parental leave, subject to qualifying criteriaWhat you need to do now If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now. If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career. #4840863 - Joanna Taylor-Coburn