Purchase Ledger Manager

Baseline Recruit Ltd; Derby; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A rapidly expanding business in Derby is seeking an experienced Accounts Payable Manager to lead and develop a five-member team. The role involves managing the full Accounts Payable function, driving efficiency through automated processes, and ensuring accurate high-value payment runs. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in AP management and a proactive approach to change. This is a fantastic opportunity for those looking to step into a pivotal role within a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Demonstrable experience managing a Purchase Ledger / Accounts Payable team.
• Strong understanding of AP processes from start to finish.
• Highly organized with excellent problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the Accounts Payable function.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of five.
• Drive efficiency through automation and improved processes.

Skills

Management of Purchase Ledger / Accounts Payable team

Problem-solving skills

Proactive mindset

Challenging status quo

Education

AAT or part-qualified

Tools

Sage Intacct

Zahara

Job description

Accounts Payable Manager - Exciting Opportunity in a High-Growth Business

A fantastic opportunity has arisen for a commercially minded and experienced Accounts Payable / Purchase Ledger Manager to join a rapidly expanding business at a pivotal stage in its growth journey. This role is perfect for someone who is technically strong, confident in challenging existing processes, and passionate about developing a high-performing finance team.

Reporting to the Group Financial Controller and working closely with the Senior Financial Accountant, this is a hands‑on leadership role with full responsibility for the end‑to‑end Accounts Payable function. The successful candidate will thrive in a dynamic environment, embrace system and process change, and bring a proactive, assertive approach to team management and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of the Accounts Payable function, including PO processing, supplier payments, and trade liability.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of five, fostering performance, motivation, and accountability.
• Support the integration of new acquisitions, ensuring smooth system transitions and enhanced controls.
• Drive efficiency through automation, improved processes, and best‑practice AP methodologies.
• Ensure accuracy and control over high‑value weekly payment runs (£200k-£500k).
• Collaborate closely with the management accounts team and wider finance leadership.
• Resolve historic/legacy issues and ensure robust knowledge transfer within the team.

About You

• Demonstrable experience managing a Purchase Ledger / Accounts Payable team.
• Strong understanding of AP processes from start to finish.
• Highly organised with excellent problem‑solving skills and a proactive mindset.
• Confident in challenging the status quo and leading change initiatives.
• IT‑literate, ideally with experience in Sage Intacct, Zahara, or similar systems (training provided if needed).
• AAT or part‑qualified (preferred), or qualified by experience.

If this sounds like the next step in your career, please contact Tracey Ellis for more information on (phone number removed).