At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Accounts Payable team and drive process improvements in a dynamic finance environment.
- Company: Join a well-established business with a great company culture in Cumbria.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, hybrid working, generous leave, and pension.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression in a supportive and flexible workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by enhancing financial processes and leading a talented team.
- Qualifications: Experience in Accounts Payable and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and proactive Head of Accounts Payable to lead our Procure-to-Pay (P2P) and cash management functions. This is a fantastic opportunity to join a growing organisation and play a key role in driving process excellence, standardisation and continuous improvement across the finance function.
The key responsibilities of a Head of Accounts Payable will include:
- Lead the end-to-end Accounts Payable and Procure-to-Pay process, ensuring timely invoice processing, approvals, and supplier payments.
- Oversee the cash management cycle, including accounting, reconciliation, forecasting, and reporting.
- Take ownership of the Purchase Order system, driving consistency, compliance, and standardisation across the business.
- Lead automation and technology projects to improve efficiency and strengthen financial controls.
- Produce accurate reporting, including AP ageing, accruals, payment forecasts, and management information.
- Develop and monitor KPIs for the P2P and cash management functions, identifying trends, risks, and opportunities for improvement.
- Manage team resources effectively to ensure key deadlines are met, particularly during month-end close and payment runs.
- Support the month-end process by reviewing site performance against budget and posting relevant journals.
- Conduct regular reviews of transactions, identifying potential capital expenditure and prepayment adjustments where required.
- Coach, develop, and support team members, ensuring the finance function continues to evolve in line with organisational growth.
The Successful Head of Accounts Payable will include:
- Previous experience leading Accounts Payable, Procure-to-Pay, or transactional finance teams.
- Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to build relationships across all areas of the business.
- Experience working with ERP systems, ideally within a complex or multi-site environment.
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and strong financial systems knowledge.
- A proven track record of delivering process improvements, automation projects, and operational efficiencies.
- The ability to manage competing priorities and meet tight deadlines within a fast-paced environment.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a keen eye for detail.
What's on Offer:
- A salary between 50,000 - 60,000 per annum
- Hybrid working - 3 days in office, 2 days working from home
- Generous annual leave entitlement with option to buy more
- Flexible core hours
- Pension
- Free on site car parking
- Great company culture with opportunities to progress
Head of Accounts Payable in Carlisle employer: Michael Page International
Michael Page is an excellent employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Cumbria that promotes hybrid working and a strong company culture. With generous annual leave, flexible hours, and a focus on employee development, this role as Head of Accounts Payable provides a unique opportunity to lead process improvements while enjoying a supportive atmosphere that values growth and innovation.
Contact Details:
Michael Page International Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Accounts Payable in Carlisle
✨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 Michael Page International. 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 Head of Accounts Payable in Carlisle
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 Michael Page International.
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 Michael Page International'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 Michael Page International
✨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 Michael Page International.
✨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 Michael Page International 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 Michael Page International 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.
