Experience: 5+ years of Accounts Payable management or supervisory experience in a law firm or professional services environment
We are seeking a high‑calibre interim finance leader to take ownership of our global Payable function during a critical period of operational optimisation.
This role goes beyond traditional Accounts Payable management. It is ideally suited to an Accounts Payable Manager, Finance Manager, Finance Director or CFO‑level professional who is comfortable operating both strategically and hands‑on, bringing leadership, control, and transformation to a complex, multi‑jurisdictional environment.
Based at our Southampton office and reporting to the Group Finance Director, you will be responsible for providing leadership across process, governance, systems and team performance to ensure a best‑in‑class AP function aligned with wider finance and business objectives.
* Oversee daily Accounts Payable operations across multiple jurisdictions, ensuring timely and accurate processing of invoices, expenses and payment runs.
* Manage the firm‑wide expense reporting system and ensure compliance with policies and tax regulations.
* Act as the escalation point for internal and external queries.
* Implement and enforce robust internal controls to safeguard assets and mitigate fraud risk, especially for high‑value international payments.
* Ensure compliance with local and international tax requirements such as VAT, GST and withholding tax.
* Maintain accurate vendor and employee data across all entities.
* Liaise with auditors, providing clear documentation and process explanations.
* Lead, mentor and develop the AP team, setting goals and fostering a culture of accountability and excellence.
* Identify opportunities to streamline workflows, drive automation and optimise ERP functionality.
* Collaborate with Finance Systems to maintain correct system configuration and data integrity.
Professional Qualifications / Skills / Experience
* 5+ years of Accounts Payable management or supervisory experience in a law firm or professional services environment.
* Proven experience managing Accounts Payable in a multi‑entity, multi‑currency environment.
* Demonstrated experience designing, implementing and enforcing robust internal controls and process improvements.
* Exposure to 3E, Cosine or similar platforms.
* Proficient in the use of Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Visio, PowerPoint, Teams and Outlook).
* Some system change management experience is desirable.
* Knowledge of offshore financial service regulations or operational experience in one of the firm’s key jurisdictions.
Personal characteristics required
* Ability to lead a team, delegate effectively and develop talent.
* Exceptional precision and accuracy in financial processing and data review.
* Strong analytical skills to quickly resolve complex payment, vendor and compliance discrepancies.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills to liaise with senior stakeholders, legal professionals and external vendors across different cultures and time zones.
* Ability to work under pressure and flexibly when required.
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