Accounts Payable Assistant

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Accounts Payable Assistant to join a respected and supportive educational trust in London. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a collaborative environment, values accuracy, and enjoys being part of a team that makes a real difference to the community.

The role offers flexibility - with the opportunity of working term time, part time or full time - however the role is onsite and doesn't offer hybrid working.

As an Accounts Payable Assistant, you will be responsible for ensuring that all aspects of payment processing run smoothly within the finance team. Your day-to-day activities will involve reviewing invoices for accuracy, entering data into financial systems with meticulous attention to detail, scheduling payments according to organisational procedures, and processing transactions on the bank account. You will also play a vital role in supporting monthly reconciliations and preparing essential documentation for audits. By collaborating closely with your colleagues, you will help resolve any queries efficiently while contributing ideas for process improvements. Your ability to maintain organised records will be crucial when responding to audit requests or internal inquiries. Success in this role will come from your dedication to accuracy, your willingness to support others within the team, and your proactive approach towards improving existing processes.

• Review invoices and payment requests thoroughly to ensure all documentation is accurate, complete, and compliant with established policies and guidelines.
• Accurately input payment data into financial systems, including invoice details, payment amounts, and account codes, maintaining high standards of data integrity.
• Assist in scheduling payments within agreed terms by obtaining necessary approvals from relevant stakeholders such as head teachers or business leads.
• Process payments on the organisation's bank accounts with careful verification of transaction details to guarantee completeness and accuracy.
• Follow established financial controls for all payment processing activities while demonstrating a strong commitment to upholding data integrity at every stage.
• Support monthly bank reconciliations by contributing to the verification of financial records and assisting with month-end accruals, prepayments, and balance sheet reconciliations.
• Raise sales invoices for schools as required, ensuring all records are maintained in an organised manner for easy retrieval during audits or reporting periods.
• Maintain up-to-date records of payment documentation, invoices, confirmations, and related correspondence in accordance with statutory requirements.
• Collaborate effectively with colleagues across the finance team to resolve payment-related issues promptly and participate in process improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing efficiency.
• Support the development and improvement of financial management systems by making recommendations for change that promote consistency, efficiency savings, and compliance with audit requirements.

What you bring:

To excel as an Accounts Payable Assistant, you will bring proven experience in accounts payable functions along with a sound understanding of invoicing processes. Your background may include working within educational settings or similar environments where compliance with strict financial controls is essential. You possess excellent ICT abilities which enable you to navigate various software platforms confidently. Your communication style is approachable yet professional; you are able to explain complex information clearly whether speaking or writing. Organisational skills are second nature-you keep track of multiple deadlines without losing sight of important details. Above all else, your approachability makes it easy for colleagues to seek your assistance when resolving queries or implementing new processes. Your adaptability allows you to respond positively when faced with new challenges or changes in procedure.

• A good general standard of education with qualifications at GCSE level including English and Maths provides a solid foundation for this role.
• Experience working within an accounts payable function demonstrates your familiarity with invoice processing and payment procedures.
• Proficiency using finance systems-ideally those used within educational trusts-enables you to adapt quickly to new platforms as needed.
• Strong ICT skills across Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint allow you to manage data entry tasks efficiently while communicating clearly with colleagues.
• Outstanding written and oral communication skills ensure you can interact effectively with team members at all levels of the organisation.
• Excellent interpersonal skills foster positive relationships within the finance team as well as other departments across the trust.
• High levels of personal organisation enable you to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while meeting deadlines consistently.
• A calm attitude under pressure helps you handle confidential issues sensitively while adapting quickly to changing priorities or urgent requests.
• Meticulous attention to detail ensures that all financial records are accurate and compliant with statutory requirements at all times.
• The ability to work both independently and collaboratively means you can take initiative when needed but also value teamwork.

Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates