Job Purpose
To lead and oversee the purchase ledger function, ensuring all supplier invoices are processed accurately and on time, payments are managed efficiently, and the team delivers a high standard of financial control and service. The role combines hands-on processing with team leadership and process improvement.
Key Responsibilities
Team Leadership
1. Supervise and support the purchase ledger team, providing guidance, training, and performance management
2. Allocate workloads and ensure deadlines are met
3. Conduct regular reviews, appraisals, and one-to-one meetings
4. Promote a positive, high-performance team culture
Purchase Ledger Management
5. Oversee the end-to-end purchase ledger process, including invoice processing, matching, and coding
6. Ensure timely and accurate processing of high-volume invoices
7. Manage supplier accounts, resolving queries and discrepancies efficiently
8. Authorise payment runs (BACS, CHAPS, international payments where applicable)
9. Ensure all transactions are recorded in line with company policies and procedures
Reconciliation & Reporting
10. Perform and review supplier statement reconciliations
11. Support month-end processes, including accruals and reporting
12. Produce regular reports on ledger performance, outstanding invoices, and aged creditors
13. Assist with audits by providing accurate documentation and explanations
Process Improvement & Compliance
14. Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and reduce errors
15. Ensure compliance with financial controls, company policies, and GDPR requirements
16. Maintain accurate financial records and documentation
17. Support system improvements or upgrades (e.g. SAGE, ERP systems)
Key Skills & Competencies
18. Strong leadership and team management skills
19. Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
20. Strong organisational and time management abilities
21. Effective problem-solving and decision-making skills
22. Confident communication with internal and external stakeholders
23. Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
Technical Skills
24. Experience with accounting software (e.g. SAGE, SAP, Oracle, or similar ERP systems)
25. Strong Microsoft Excel skills (pivot tables, VLOOKUP desirable)
26. Solid understanding of purchase ledger processes and financial controls
Experience Required
27. Proven experience in a purchase ledger or accounts payable role
28. Previous experience supervising or leading a team
29. Experience managing high-volume invoice processing
30. Experience handling supplier queries and reconciliations
Desirable
31. AAT qualified or studying (or equivalent)
32. Experience in process improvement or system implementation
33. Experience in a fast-paced commercial environment
Personal Attributes
34. Proactive and results-driven
35. Reliable and professional
36. Strong attention to detail
37. Approachable and supportive leader
38. Committed to continuous improvement
KPIs / Performance Measures
39. Invoice processing accuracy and turnaround time
40. Reduction in outstanding queries
41. Timely completion of payment runs
42. Supplier satisfaction
43. Team performance and productivity
44. Compliance with financial controls
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