Hays are partnering with a well-established public sector organisation based in North Bristol to recruit an Interim Accounts Payable Assistant for an initial minimum 3-month assignment, with the potential for extension. This organisation manages and maintains significant environmental and land-based assets across England, playing a vital role in sustainability, conservation, and community engagement.The organisation is known for its collaborative culture, supportive working environment, and commitment to delivering meaningful public services. You'll be joining a busy and experienced finance team during a period of increased demand, where your contribution will be valued from day one.
Your new role
As an Interim Accounts Payable Assistant, you will support the day-to-day operation of the accounts payable function, ensuring supplier invoices and queries are processed accurately and efficiently. Working within a high-volume transactional finance team, you will take ownership of a range of accounts payable activities while maintaining excellent service levels for both internal and external stakeholders.
Key responsibilities will include:
Monitoring and managing the finance inbox, ensuring supplier queries and invoices are actioned promptly.
Processing a high volume of supplier invoices, including accurate coding, purchase order matching, and VAT treatment.
Liaising with budget holders to obtain invoice approvals in a timely manner.
Preparing and processing authorised invoices for payment.
Reconciling supplier statements and investigating any discrepancies.
Setting up and maintaining supplier accounts in line with company policies.
Responding to supplier and stakeholder queries professionally and efficiently.
Building positive relationships with internal departments and external suppliers.
Assisting with ad hoc finance administration and supporting the wider finance team as required.This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to gain experience within a respected public sector organisation while working as part of a supportive and collaborative finance function.
What you'll need to succeed
To be successful in this role, you will have:
Previous experience working in an Accounts Payable, Purchase Ledger, or transactional finance position.
Strong attention to detail and a commitment to processing financial information accurately.
A good understanding of invoice processing, supplier reconciliations, and VAT principles.
Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise a busy workload.
Strong communication skills and the confidence to liaise with stakeholders at all levels.
A proactive and professional approach to problem-solving and query resolution.
The ability to work independently while contributing effectively as part of a wider team.
Experience using finance systems and Microsoft Excel would be advantageous.
What you'll get in return
Competitive hourly rate of £16 per hour.
Minimum 3-month interim assignment, with the possibility of extension.
Hybrid working arrangement, with 5 days in the office initially for training and onboarding, followed by 3 days working from home and 2 days in the office.
Opportunity to gain experience within a respected public sector organisation.
Friendly and supportive team environment.
Excellent North Bristol location with accessible transport links.
Dedicated Hays consultant throughout your assignment.
What you need to do now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to forward an up-to-date copy of your CV, or call us now.
If this job isn't quite right for you, but you are looking for a new position, please contact us for a confidential discussion about your career.
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Salary description
£13.00 - £18.00 per hour