The Head of AP and AR is responsible for taking ownership of the strategic and operational management of supplier an client payments, ensuring efficient processing, robust controls and accurate transaction recording across the organisation. The successful candidate will develop a performance-driven culture and shared-service approach to enhance service levels, strengthen governance, and minimise payment fraud risks while remaining hands-on to meet deadlines when necessary.


Key Responsibilities:
*Oversee efficient processing and recording of payment transactions in a high-volume environment.
*Deliver a client-focused transaction processing service for departments, clients, and suppliers.
*Implement payment solutions that align with shared-service principles and drive continuous improvement.
*Develop and execute the overall payments strategy.
*Lead the transition from manual invoice processing to an automated invoice capture and PO matching system, embedding validation controls, improving user experience, and supporting phased rollout through training and clear procedures.
*Be a proactive team player with strong motivation and a commitment to delivering excellent customer service.
*Utilize technical expertise and analytical skills to identify anomalies and flag potential issues or risks to management on an ongoing basis.
*Analyze performance metrics and produce KPI reports to assess the effectiveness of payment operations.
*Identify opportunities to enhance client experiences and implement improvements.
*Resolve operational payment issues promptly and effectively.
*Act as the primary contact for payment service providers.
*Manage escalations related to payment concerns.
*Ensure timely management of payment-related inboxes, prioritizing queries appropriately.
*Guarantee client payments are processed accurately, adhering to contractual terms, while providing timely updates to clients.
*Deliver outstanding service to both internal teams and external stakeholders.
*Collaborate with leadership on developing procurement policies and procedures.
*Work closely with teams across the business to identify process improvements, training needs, and enforcement measures.
*Report poor practices, suspected fraud, or other risks to management as required.
*Ensure all users have adequate knowledge and skills to adopt shared-service principles and uphold best practices across the organization.
*Inspire, lead, and motivate the payments team to achieve high standards of operational excellence while fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
*Provide guidance, support, and advice to local teams as well as regional payments teams.
*Manage the shift from manual invoice matching processes to automated systems while addressing evolving skillset requirements within the team.
*Allocate tasks effectively by setting targets/KPIs, monitoring progress, and implementing contingency plans when deadlines are at risk.
*Oversee processes for facilitating single-release payments in a timely manner.
Robert Walters Operations Limited is an employment business and employment agency and welcomes applications from all candidates