Accounts Payable Assistant

Based in Luton, Up to £32,000

About the Role

A well established and growing organisation is seeking a detail oriented Accounts Payable Assistant to join its finance team on a full time, permanent basis. Reporting to the Financial Controller, this position plays a key role in the day to day management of the accounts payable function within a purchase order driven environment.

This role combines ERP based invoice processing with manual controls and requires a strong eye for detail, excellent organisational skills, and a proactive approach to resolving discrepancies and maintaining accurate financial records.

Key ResponsibilitiesAccounts Payable

• Process supplier invoices within a purchase order based accounts payable system
• Match purchase orders, invoices, and delivery documentation to complete three way matching
• Investigate and resolve pricing, quantity, and receipt discrepancies
• Maintain and reconcile GRNI balances
• Ensure invoices are accurately coded, approved, and posted within agreed timescales

Supplier Payments

• Prepare supplier payment runs in line with agreed payment terms
• Upload and process payment files through the banking platform
• Verify supplier payment information, due dates, and supporting documentation
• Maintain accurate audit trails and comply with internal payment controls
• Support approval processes and segregation of duties procedures

Supplier & Internal Relationships

• Reconcile supplier statements and resolve outstanding queries
• Liaise with purchasing, operations, and goods receipt teams to resolve invoice issues
• Act as a key contact for supplier payment enquiries

Reporting & Compliance

• Support weekly and monthly reporting activities, including aged creditors and cashflow reporting
• Ensure VAT is processed accurately in line with UK regulations
• Adhere to internal financial controls and company procedures
• Assist with audit requests and month end close activities

Skills & ExperienceEssential

• Previous experience in an Accounts Payable or Purchase Ledger role
• Experience processing supplier payments using ERP systems and banking platforms
• Strong understanding of three way matching processes
• Knowledge of UK VAT requirements
• Experience reconciling supplier accounts and GRNI balances
• Good Excel skills and strong attention to detail
• Confident communicator with the ability to build effective working relationships

Desirable

• Experience working within manufacturing, engineering, or technical industries
• Familiarity with ERP or MRP systems
• Understanding of financial controls and audit processes

Qualifications

• AAT qualified, part qualified, or qualified by experience
• Relevant finance or business related qualifications beneficial but not essential