Accounts Payable Lead

Accounts Payable Lead An exciting opportunity has arisen to join a rapidly growing consumer products business operating within the retail and e-commerce sector. With significant year-on-year growth, a loyal customer base and ambitious expansion plans across multiple markets, the business is continuing to invest in its finance function and operational infrastructure. Reporting directly to the Financial Controller, the Accounts Payable Lead will take ownership of the end-to-end accounts payable function across multiple entities. This is a highly visible role offering the chance to work closely with procurement, operations and senior stakeholders while helping to shape and develop processes within a scaling environment. This position would suit an experienced Accounts Payable professional who enjoys working autonomously, takes pride in owning processes from end to end, and is looking to take a step towards future people management as the finance team grows. Key Responsibilities Own and lead the end-to-end accounts payable function across UK and international operations. Manage stock supplier invoicing processes, including three-way matching (Purchase Order, Goods Received Note and Invoice), investigating and resolving discrepancies with Procurement and Operations teams. Process and approve overhead invoices, company card transactions and employee expenses, ensuring accurate coding and timely payment. Take ownership of domestic and international payment runs, ensuring suppliers are paid accurately and in line with agreed payment terms. Act as the primary point of contact for supplier and internal payment queries, building strong relationships across the business. Perform supplier statement reconciliations and bank reconciliations, ensuring outstanding items are investigated and resolved promptly. Maintain accurate VAT treatment and general ledger coding across all supplier transactions. Support month-end close activities and financial controls relating to the accounts payable process. Assist with external audit requests, providing supporting documentation, reconciliations and evidence of financial controls. Review supplier payment terms and credit arrangements, working collaboratively with stakeholders to improve working capital and supplier relationships. Identify opportunities for process improvements, automation and increased efficiency as the business continues to scale. About You Proven experience managing the full accounts payable cycle within a retail, e-commerce, wholesale, consumer goods, manufacturing, FMCG or other inventory-led environment. Strong understanding of three-way matching (PO, GRN and Invoice) and stock-related supplier processes. Confident working independently and taking ownership of an AP function with minimal supervision. Experience managing high-volume domestic and international payment runs, including multi-currency transactions. Strong reconciliation skills, including supplier statements, bank reconciliations and control account reviews. Good working knowledge of VAT and general ledger coding. Comfortable communicating with stakeholders across finance, procurement, operations and senior leadership teams. Previous experience supporting year-end audits is advantageous. Advanced Excel skills and experience using ERP or finance systems. Highly organised with excellent attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment. What's on Offer Salary up to £35,000 per annum. Performance-related bonus scheme. 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays. Pension scheme. Genuine opportunity to build and develop an accounts payable function within a high-growth business. Excellent career progression prospects, including future team leadership opportunities as the organisation expands. Exposure to a dynamic retail and e-commerce environment operating across multiple markets. Location: Hertfordshire/Buckinghamshire border area with occasional travel to a London office as required. This is an excellent opportunity for someone seeking more ownership than a traditional Accounts Payable position offers, while gaining exposure to the challenges and opportunities of a fast-growing retail and e-commerce business.