Job Overview
We are seeking an experienced Head of Accounts Payable to lead the function across NHS Wales, overseeing the Accounts Payable, e‑Enablement, and Salary Sacrifice benefits teams. The role will manage all non‑pay related payments, valued at over £7 bn, and collaborate closely with procurement to deliver seamless procure‑to‑pay processes.
Salary
Salary will be set in accordance with the Agenda for Change Pay Award 2026/27, effective from 1 April 2026.
Main Duties
Provide strategic, leadership and operational management of the Accounts Payable, e‑Enablement, and Salary Sacrifice teams across NWSSP.
Lead the full Accounts Payable cycle, ensuring accuracy, timeliness, and robust financial controls.
Implement best‑practice processes, automation, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external suppliers.
Manage Accounts Payable reporting, KPIs, and month‑end close activities.
Ensure compliance with NHS Wales policies, audit requirements, and regulatory standards.
Drive strategic initiatives to enhance efficiency and support business objectives.
Develop people and foster a positive team culture.
Lead service transformation to deliver long‑term strategic objectives through increased automation and improved procure‑to‑pay capabilities.
Apply data analytics to prioritize improvements and identify quick wins in non‑pay payment processes.
Deploy IT solutions such as duplicate payment prevention software, early payment income‑generating software, and robotic process automation to improve non‑pay payments.
Qualifications and Knowledge
Degree level education or equivalent experience.
Post‑graduate qualification (MA/MSc/MBA) or equivalent experience in procurement, Accounts Payable, change management, leadership, business planning, or service improvement.
Professional qualification (e.g., MCIPS) or equivalent finance qualification.
Evidence of continuing professional development, education, and training at senior management level.
In‑depth knowledge of strategic procurement, financial management, performance measurement, and staff management.
Expert knowledge of procurement strategy and relevant legislation.
Proven ability to influence strategic thinking of senior health board and trust management.
Knowledge of e‑business systems.
Knowledge of best practice, benchmarking, and performance measurement techniques.
Desirable: Project Management qualifications such as PRINCE2.
Experience
Significant senior‑level experience in complex procurement, finance, or purchase‑to‑pay initiatives.
Experience managing contractors, professional, and administrative staff to achieve corporate objectives.
Experience developing and implementing purchase‑to‑pay solutions.
Experience in project planning and meeting deadlines.
Desirable: Political awareness and understanding of national and local agendas.
Desirable: Experience in risk management, corporate governance, and quality management systems.
Skills & Attributes
Creative and dynamic thinking with lateral solutions and risk‑evaluated proposals.
Organisational change management skills.
Excellent written and oral communication; clear and robust presentation abilities.
Strong influencing and negotiating skills; ability to build productive relationships.
Proficient in all Microsoft Office products.
Ability to develop consensus with a variety of key players both within and outside NWSSP.
Ability to travel off‑site across Wales and other parts of the UK.
Desirable: Welsh speaking.
Desirable: Interest in healthcare.
Other Requirements
UK professional registration (where applicable).
Submission of Disclosure & Barring Service check.
Work permission for non‑UK or Republic of Ireland citizens: Health and Care visa or Skilled Worker visa (or have a route of permission). Self‑assessment required.
Equal Opportunities
We are committed to flexible working and equal opportunities. We welcome applications from all candidates, including those fluent in Welsh and/or English.
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