Accounts Payable Assistant in Worksop

Job Purpose / Overview

The Accounts Payable Assistant supports the Accounts Payable Lead in delivering an accurate, timely and well-controlled end-to-end purchase-to-pay service. The role is responsible for processing supplier invoices, credit notes and payments, resolving queries and maintaining accurate supplier accounts. It also provides practical support to the wider Finance team, including bank reconciliations, month-end journals, balance sheet reconciliations and other financial close activities. Contextual Information Operating Environment Support the Accounts Payable Lead in delivering the Accounts Payable service, working closely with the wider Finance team, site Supply Chain team, budget holders and external suppliers. The role requires effective coordination across the business to ensure invoices, payments, reconciliations and queries are completed accurately and on time. Framework & Boundaries The Accounts Payable Assistant reports directly to the Accounts Payable Lead and works within established Finance policies, procedures, delegated authorities and internal controls. The role has no direct reports and is expected to escalate significant or unresolved issues promptly. Principal Accountabilities Process supplier invoices and credit notes accurately and within agreed timescales, ensuring appropriate purchase orders, coding and approvals are in place. Prepare supplier payment runs and supporting documentation for review and approval by the Accounts Payable Lead and authorised signatories. Monitor invoice approvals and follow up with budget holders to minimise delays and overdue items. Investigate and resolve supplier invoice and payment queries, liaising with suppliers, Supply Chain, Engineering and other business functions as required. Complete supplier statement reconciliations, investigate differences and ensure reconciling items are resolved promptly. Maintain accurate supplier master data and supporting records in accordance with authorised processes and segregation-of-duties controls. Support the Commercial Power Settlements team with invoice and payment activity as required. Complete daily and month-end bank reconciliations, investigate unmatched transactions and clear reconciling items on a timely basis. Prepare and post routine month-end journals, with appropriate supporting evidence and review, including accruals, prepayments, reclassifications and other recurring entries where assigned. Prepare assigned balance sheet reconciliations to the required standard and timetable, investigating and resolving outstanding items. Support the wider Finance team with cash allocation, customer invoice creation, ledger maintenance and other month-end close activities. Maintain complete and accurate audit trails and provide supporting documentation for internal and external audit requests. Follow Finance policies, standard operating procedures and internal controls, including delegated authorities, segregation of duties and controls designed to prevent duplicate or unauthorised payments. Monitor agreed Accounts Payable service measures and highlight emerging backlogs, control issues or recurring errors to the Accounts Payable Lead. Contribute to process improvement and problem-solving activity across Accounts Payable and the wider Finance function. Build effective working relationships with colleagues and suppliers, communicating clearly and professionally. Undertake other reasonable ad hoc duties as directed by the Accounts Payable Lead or wider Finance management team. Knowledge & Skills Essential Good working knowledge of Accounts Payable and purchase-to-pay processes Good Microsoft Excel skills and confidence working with financial data High level of accuracy and attention to detail Ability to organise and prioritise a varied workload to meet payment and month-end deadlines Clear and professional written and verbal communication skills Ability to investigate differences, resolve routine queries and escalate issues appropriately Collaborative, customer-focused approach with a commitment to strong financial control Qualifications & Experience Essential Previous experience in an Accounts Payable, finance assistant or similar transactional finance role Experience of processing invoices, resolving supplier queries and completing account reconciliations An understanding of basic accounting principles and financial controls Experience of using an ERP or finance system Desirable Experience of bank reconciliations, month-end journals or balance sheet reconciliations SAP experience Experience within the energy, utilities or other regulated sector Working towards, or an interest in working towards, an AAT or equivalent accounting qualification Behavioural Competences Delivers accurate, complete and timely work, taking ownership of assigned tasks through to resolution. Works collaboratively with colleagues and provides a responsive, professional service to internal stakeholders and suppliers. Applies sound judgement, follows agreed controls and escalates issues at the appropriate time. Communicates clearly, listens to others and builds constructive working relationships. Responds positively to changing priorities and maintains focus during busy payment and month-end periods. Looks for practical ways to improve accuracy, efficiency and the quality of service provided. Demonstrates integrity, discretion and respect for confidential financial information.