Senior Accounts Payable - Events - Absolute Recruit : Job Details

Join one of London’s fastest-growing creative agencies as their Accounts Payable Lead, taking ownership of the AP function and helping to shape efficient financial processes within a dynamic, global events business. Reporting to the Finance Director, you’ll oversee all aspects of Accounts Payable, support procurement activities, and drive process improvement and financial compliance. We are ideally looking for someone with hands-on experience in AP automation and financial systems. This role is office based 4 days with 1 from home based in SW London. Key Duties • Lead and manage the full AP function, including line management responsibilities• Oversee supplier payments, invoices, purchase orders, and expense reimbursements, ensuring accuracy and compliance• Develop and implement AP policies, procedures, and controls to optimise efficiency and mitigate risk• Review and authorise all AP transactions, including domestic and international payments• Monitor and manage cash flow related to payables, optimising payment schedules and working capital• Ensure VAT compliance and identify opportunities for reclaim• Act as the primary contact for supplier and vendor finance queries• Drive automation, system improvements, and best practice across Procim, Xero, and other financial systems• Reconcile Pleo expense card payments, ensuring timely reporting and posting• Perform monthly reconciliations for AP records and resolve discrepancies• Prepare AP reports, analysis, and ageing summaries• Support month-end and year-end close with accurate data and reporting• Assist the Finance Director and Project Accountant with ad hoc analysis• Manage the supplier onboarding process and ensure robust due diligence and compliance checks• Support supplier relationship management and contract negotiations• Liaise with vendors and internal stakeholders to ensure smooth procurement operations• Contribute to company-wide supplier policies and documentation• Assist with procurement-related projects and reviews of existing suppliers• Identify and mitigate compliance or financial risks across AP and procurement• Maintain accurate documentation aligned with internal controls and external regulations• Lead audit preparations and respond to AP-related queries• Promote secure payment practices and fraud prevention measuresKey Skills • Proven experience in a senior Accounts Payable role, ideally within a creative, events, or fast-paced environment• Hands-on experience with AP automation and financial systems — proficiency in Procim and Xero preferred but not essential• Strong understanding of supplier contracts, procurement compliance, and AP regulations• Experience managing a small team or leading an AP function• Excellent Excel, analytical, and problem-solving skills• Confident communicator with strong stakeholder management abilities• Proactive, organised, and able to prioritise effectively under pressure• AAT, ACCA, CIMA, or equivalent qualification (or working towards) preferredApply today! #LI-CC1