We are recruiting for an experienced Accounts Payable Officer on behalf of our client, a respected private educational organisation. This role is responsible for supporting the day-to-day accounts payable and general accounting operations, ensuring supplier payments, financial records, reporting and administrative processes are completed accurately, efficiently and in line with internal policies and accounting standards.

You will play an important role in maintaining efficient financial operations while providing a professional, customer-focused service to suppliers, parents, students, staff and other stakeholders.

Company Information

Our client is a private co-educational educational institution committed to delivering high-quality learning and supporting the development of students within a values-led environment. The organisation promotes a culture built on integrity, collaboration, accountability and service.

You will join the Finance team, working closely with the Finance Manager and supporting the wider school administration community. The successful candidate will contribute to a professional and supportive workplace where accuracy, confidentiality and strong working relationships are highly valued.

Responsibilities and Duties

As the Accounts Payable Officer, you will be responsible for:

• Managing the day-to-day accounts payable function in accordance with financial policies, procedures and generally accepted accounting principles.
• Setting up and maintaining supplier records while ensuring vendor information remains accurate and up to date.
• Reviewing, verifying and processing supplier invoices, bills and statements, investigating discrepancies where required.
• Ensuring timely and accurate payments to suppliers, as well as processing staff reimbursements and refund requests.
• Responding professionally and promptly to queries from suppliers, parents, staff and other stakeholders regarding payments and accounts.
• Preparing online payments and cheques with appropriate supporting documentation for authorised approval.
• Recording financial transactions accurately in QuickBooks and the organisation’s online banking portal.
• Reconciling supplier accounts, accounts payable ledgers, medical insurance and pension payments.
• Preparing accounts payable reports, spreadsheets and financial statements for review by the Finance Manager.
• Assisting with monthly payroll preparation, budgeting activities and general financial reporting.
• Maintaining appropriate financial records, including invoices, statements, contracts, correspondence and supporting documentation.
• Supporting inventory controls, fixed asset registers, school supply records and procurement processes.
• Coordinating purchase orders by obtaining quotations, maintaining supplier communication and ensuring approvals are received.
• Assisting with internal and external audit requirements while identifying and escalating any accounts payable compliance issues.

Qualifications and Skills

To be successful in this Accounts Payable Officer role, you will ideally have:

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, Finance or a related discipline.
• A minimum of three years’ experience working in accounts payable, with proven experience using QuickBooks.
• Experience managing a high volume of invoices, supplier accounts and financial transactions.
• Strong knowledge of general accounting principles and accounts payable practices.
• Excellent proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Microsoft Excel.
• Strong numerical ability with a high level of accuracy, attention to detail and organisation.
• The ability to manage confidential financial information with professionalism, integrity and discretion.
• Effective communication, interpersonal, negotiation and time-management skills.
• The ability to work independently, prioritise competing demands and meet deadlines with minimal supervision.
• A collaborative mindset with the ability to build positive relationships across a diverse organisation.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to analyse information and recommend practical solutions.
• A commitment to ethical conduct, accountability and maintaining high professional standards.

Benefits and Perks

This opportunity offers the chance to join a professional and purpose-driven organisation where your financial expertise will directly support the effective operation of an established educational environment.

Benefits and advantages include:

• The opportunity to work within a respected, supportive and collaborative Finance team.
• Exposure to a broad range of accounts payable, general accounting and procurement responsibilities.
• A role that values accuracy, initiative, accountability and professional development.
• Generous benefits package including discounted tuition.