Accounts Payable & Receivable Assistant

Robert Walters UK; Watford; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading recruitment consultancy is seeking an organised Accounts Payable & Receivable Assistant in Watford. This role aims for accurate invoice processing and management of accounts, supporting operational success in a dynamic environment. Ideal candidates will have hands-on experience in accounts, strong attention to detail, and proficiency in Microsoft Office applications. Opportunities for growth within the organisation are supported, emphasizing continuous development and learning.

Qualifications

• Experience working in a fast-paced leisure and hospitality environment is advantageous.
• Ability to work independently and proactively.

Responsibilities

• Process all venue invoices including verifying purchase orders and approvals.
• Set up and maintain new supplier accounts.
• Reconcile supplier statements and follow up on unprocessed invoices.
• Assist with supplier payment runs according to schedules.

Skills

Hands-on experience with Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable

Solid understanding of basic accounting principles

Strong interpersonal and communication skills

Excellent attention to detail and accuracy

Proficiency in Microsoft Excel (Pivot Tables, LookUps, SumIFs)

Ability to multitask and meet tight deadlines

Education

GCSE Maths and English grade C/5 or above

Part-qualified AAT is desirable

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Outlook

SAP S4

Job description

We are seeking an organised and detail-oriented Accounts Payable & Receivable Assistant to join our UK finance team. This role ensures timely processing of supplier invoices, accurate management of receivables, and strong internal controls. The position supports both operational and financial success, offering opportunities for growth in a dynamic, fast‑paced leisure and hospitality environment.

Purpose of Role

The Accounts Payable & Receivable Assistant plays a critical role in ensuring suppliers are paid accurately and on time while managing Accounts Receivable activity according to best practice. The role also ensures strong internal controls are maintained and supports smooth day‑to‑day finance operations. This position contributes to the operational and financial success of the business and supports growth both in the UK and internationally.

Key Responsibilities

• Accurately process all venue invoices in line with internal procedures, including verifying purchase orders, approvals, and correct coding
• Set up and maintain new supplier accounts
• Reconcile supplier statements weekly and follow up on unprocessed invoices
• Resolve or escalate internal and supplier queries promptly
• Assist with supplier payment runs in accordance with payment schedules
• Support and deputise for the Transactions Manager as required
• Raise invoices for franchise and partnership income and chase outstanding balances
• Support ad hoc projects, year‑end audit, and statutory reporting
• Contribute to UK HQ engagement initiatives, share ideas, support colleagues, and maintain a positive environment
• Respond to external auditor requests
• Operate the open purchase order reporting system
• Travel to venues as required
• Manage Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable mailboxes

Skills and Experience

• Hands‑on experience with Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable
• Solid understanding of basic accounting principles
• Ability to multitask, remain organised, motivated, and positive
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong organisational skills with ability to prioritise and meet tight deadlines
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Outlook, and Excel (Pivot Tables, LookUps, SumIFs)
• Experience with SAP S4 is desirable
• Background in retail, leisure, or hospitality is advantageous
• Ability to work independently and proactively
• Desire for continuous personal and professional development
• Adaptable to a fast‑changing business environment
• Strong problem‑solving mindset and sense of urgency
• Foundation‑level accounting knowledge

Qualifications and Education

• GCSE Maths and English grade C/5 or above
• Part‑qualified AAT is desirable

Working Environment

Based at Watford with a minimum of four days per week in the office (Monday to Thursday). The role requires collaboration with operational teams, venue leadership, and senior stakeholders. The environment is fast‑paced, commercial, and hands‑on, offering exposure to UK and international operations. The team values accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement, and encourages knowledge sharing and practical problem solving.

Systems and Controls

Operate within a structured financial control framework to ensure accuracy, compliance, and consistency. Follow established approval processes, maintain audit trails, and ensure documentation is complete and accessible. Contribute to process improvements and system enhancements as the business grows.

Development and Progression

This role offers strong career development opportunities within a growing organisation. Support for ongoing learning, exposure to complex accounting activities, projects, and stakeholder interactions is provided. The leadership team is committed to developing talent from within and providing increased responsibility over time. A proactive approach and willingness to learn are key to success.