Indirect AP Manager - Hybrid, Flexible Hours & Growth in Warrington

Who We Are: Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.

JOB MISSION: The AP Manager – Indirect Spend owns the end‑to‑end Accounts Payable process for indirect spend across the EMEA region. This role partners closely with Finance, Procurement, and business teams to ensure timely and accurate invoice processing, strong supplier relationships, and compliance with internal controls. The manager manages a team of four and supports nine legal entities.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Operational Leadership
  • Lead the day‑to‑day work of the Indirect AP team, including 1:1s, performance reviews, and development plans.
  • Oversee processing of indirect purchase invoices, credit notes, and supplier or internal queries.
  • Ensure payment terms, company policies, and approval workflows are followed.
  • Supervise AP ageing and support proactive resolution of overdue items.
  • Guide the back‑end AP team on data analytics and non‑PO invoice workflows.
• Process & Controls
  • Maintain effective internal controls aligned with audit, procurement, and compliance requirements.
  • Ensure accurate supplier account setup, onboarding, and periodic reviews.
  • Support PO and VAT/GL compliance across indirect procurement activity.
  • Oversee month‑end tasks including accruals, intercompany postings, and reconciliations.
• Supplier & Stakeholder Management
  • Act as a partner concern point for supplier issues and internal queries.
  • Build strong relationships with suppliers and business partners across procurement, finance, and operations.
  • Partner with procurement to improve supplier terms and streamline buying processes.
• Systems & Reporting
  • Oversee invoice and PO workflow systems, addressing issues as needed.
  • Produce dashboards and KPIs on productivity, accuracy, ageing, and compliance.
  • Support system upgrades, process automation, and digitalisation initiatives.
• Continuous Improvement
  • Identify and implement process improvements and service‑level enhancements.
  • Promote standardised AP processes across regions and entities.
  • Contribute to P2P transformation projects such as e‑invoicing, automation, and shared‑service optimisation.
  • Support data migration for ERP transitions.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

• Essential:
  • Experience leading Accounts Payable teams (relevant years of experience with managing 3 direct reports or above) within indirect spend.
  • Knowledge of P2P processes, invoice workflow tools, and AP controls.
  • Experience mentoring and developing team members.
  • Ability to handle high‑volume work across multi‑entity or multi‑country environments.
  • Strong analytical skills and experience producing operational KPIs.
  • Effective communication and partner management skills.
  • Comfortable improving processes and leading change.
  • Advanced Excel skills and familiarity with BI tools.
• Nice to have:
  • Experience with ERP systems such as Aurora System 21, Microsoft D365, or equivalent.
  • Exposure to e‑invoicing or reporting compliance models (EMEA/global).
  • Experience in shared service or centralised finance teams.
  • Accounting qualifications (AAT, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent).
  • Understanding of indirect procurement categories.

BENEFITS:

• Discretionary Bonus Opportunity
• Private Medical Insurance
• Dental Scheme
• Pension Scheme
• Flexible Working Hours
• Hybrid working (3 days on-site)
• 25 days Annual Leave per year
• Life Insurance
• On Site Gym
• Employee Discount
• Employee Referral Scheme
• Volunteering Opportunities via NB GivesBack
• Learning & Development Opportunities
• Flexibility to work 20 days from anywhere each year
• Travel Assistance and Insurance when working abroad
• Wellbeing and Mental Health Benefit (24/7 Employment Assistance Program & Support)

Equal Opportunity Employer: New Balance is committed to equality of opportunity for all current and prospective associates regardless of age, disability, race, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnership and gender reassignment. We are an equal opportunity employer and support a culture of diversity and inclusion. If you have not already done so, please let us know if you require any support so we can make the right adjustments and considerations should they be required.