At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and optimise the Accounts Payable team while driving innovation and efficiency.
- Company: Join Safetykleen, a top provider of environmental services across Europe.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private healthcare, enhanced parental leave, and wellness discounts.
- Other info: Opportunities for career growth and continuous professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a fast-paced environment with big ambitions.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in Accounts Payable, with strong leadership and problem-solving skills.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Head of Accounts Payable - Lead, Optimise & Innovate!
Are you an experienced Accounts Payable specialist with a passion for leadership, efficiency and process optimisation?
We’re looking for a proactive leader to manage and develop our AP team, streamline invoice and payment processes, strengthen relationships with internal teams and external vendors, and drive innovation in a fast‑paced, high‑growth environment.
About Us
Safetykleen is a leading provider of Parts Cleaning, Waste Collection and Environmental Advisory services to businesses across Europe.
Safetykleen employs over 2,000 people and serves over 50,000 businesses in 15 countries.
We deliver over 1 million services per year through our unparalleled branch network.
Our headquarters are based in London, and we are backed by Apax, a leading Private Equity firm.
We’re driven by big ambitions and a clear strategy – putting customers first while making the planet Safer and Kleener.
About You
- A strategic and hands‑on leader with deep expertise in accounts payable operations.
- Experienced in fast‑paced, high‑growth environments – private equity experience is a plus!
- Passionate about process improvements and driving efficiency.
- A problem‑solver with a proven track record of delivering positive change.
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field (preferred).
- Have 5+ years of AP experience, including 2+ years in a managerial or supervisory role.
- Strong understanding of accounting principles and AP best practices.
- Proficient in ERP systems (Microsoft Dynamics preferred) and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and ideally a curiosity around AI.
- A strong people leader with excellent team management and communication skills.
The Role
Team Leadership –
Manage, train, and mentor our Accounts Payable team.
- Oversee Accounts Payable Operations
- Ensure timely and accurate processing of invoices and payments while maintaining strong financial controls.
- Drive Efficiency & Best Practices –
Develop, implement, and refine accounts payable policies and procedures to enhance accuracy, compliance, and efficiency.
- Strengthen Vendor Relationships
- Manage vendor onboarding, maintain strong relationships, and resolve payment discrepancies or disputes.
- Collaborate Cross‑Functionally –
Work closely with finance, accounting, and other departments to ensure seamless financial reporting and month‑end closing.
Monitor & Reconcile Transactions –
Oversee the accounts payable aging report, reconcile transactions, and ensure compliance with tax regulations and company policies.
- Support Audits & Compliance
- Assist with audits, provide necessary documentation, and maintain compliance with internal controls.
- Implement Process Improvements
- Continuously identify and execute enhancements to streamline AP operations and support business growth.
- 5% Contributory Pension scheme.
- Family Life assurance of 3 times life cover salary.
- Private healthcare scheme from day 1.
- Enhanced maternity and paternity pay.
- Corporate discount scheme focussed on your wellbeing, including discounted Virgin Active Gym membership – and Gymflex.
- Discount and cashback at many retailers.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Employee Assistance Program with 24/7 confidential helpline support for employees.
- Enhanced occupational sick pay scheme for employees with illness and/or conditions requiring treatment.
- Employee recognition program.
- We provide support and access to a range of internal and external courses to help and progress your career with us.
If you’re ready to make an impact and lead the way in Accounts Payable excellence, we’d love to hear from you!
#J-18808-Ljbffr
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Accounts Payable in London
✨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 Safetykleen. 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 London
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 Safetykleen.
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 Safetykleen'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 Safetykleen
✨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 Safetykleen.
✨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 Safetykleen 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 Safetykleen 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.
