At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage accounts payable operations and ensure timely supplier payments.
- Company: Join Soul Foods Group, a family-owned leader in the quick-service restaurant industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, up to 28 holidays, life assurance, and on-site parking.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to community and career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic team while developing your finance skills.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in Accounts Payable with strong analytical and Excel skills.
The predicted salary is between 32000 - 38000 £ per year.
Soul Foods Group is a leading multinational quick-service restaurant franchisee. Founded in 1985, we are a family-owned business that has rapidly grown to own and manage almost 400 restaurants across the U.K. and Canada. Our mission is to make a difference to people’s lives, their opportunities and their communities through great tasting food and coffee.
We are looking for a detail-driven and proactive Accounts Payable Analyst to join our UK Finance team. This is a high-impact role responsible for managing end-to-end accounts payable operations across our multi-site estate. You’ll combine strong transactional expertise with analytical insight—driving accuracy, efficiency, and cost control while building strong supplier relationships and supporting business performance through data-led decision-making. It is a full-time, 40-hour per week role based in our Rickmansworth Head Office 5 days a week.
YOU WILL DO:
- Process high volumes of utility, service, and supply invoices accurately and on time
- Manage the full invoice lifecycle, including three-way matching
- Run weekly payments and ensure suppliers are paid on time
- Reconcile supplier statements, resolve discrepancies, and liaise with vendors
- Manage capex invoices and the fixed asset register, ensuring correct accounting treatment
- Analyse utility costs and usage to identify trends and savings
- Report monthly and quarterly on spend, budgets, and performance
- Negotiate supplier rates, terms, and discounts
- Improve processes to boost automation, efficiency, and data accuracy
- Lead month-end AP close, including accruals, reconciliations, and variance analysis
- Maintain policy compliance and strong internal controls
- Support audits by providing accurate and timely information
WHAT YOU WILL NEED:
- 5+ years’ experience in Accounts Payable, ideally within retail, hospitality, or multi-site environments
- Strong experience in high-volume invoice processing
- Experience with fixed asset accounting and utility cost analysis is highly advantageous
- Advanced Excel skills (PivotTables, VLOOKUPs or equivalent)
- Experience with ERP systems (Sage 200 desirable)
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organisational skills
- Excellent communication and negotiation abilities
- High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy
WHAT YOU WILL RECEIVE:
- Part of a great team & the Soul family
- Annual Salary of £32-£38,000 (depending on experience)
- Up to 28 Holidays including Bank Holidays
- Life Assurance
- Parking on site
Soul Foods Group are an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and diverse environment for all colleagues. If you do require any reasonable adjustments or support during the application process; please contact us.
Accounts Payable Analyst in Watford employer: Soul Foods Group
At Soul Foods Group, we pride ourselves on being a family-owned business that values its employees and fosters a supportive work culture. As an Accounts Payable Analyst in our Rickmansworth Head Office, you will enjoy a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and the opportunity to grow within a dynamic team dedicated to making a positive impact in our communities through great food and coffee. Join us to be part of a diverse workforce that prioritises career development and employee well-being.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounts Payable Analyst in Watford
✨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 Soul Foods Group. 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 Accounts Payable Analyst in Watford
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 Soul Foods Group.
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 Soul Foods Group'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 Soul Foods Group
✨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 Soul Foods Group.
✨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 Soul Foods Group 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 Soul Foods Group 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.
