Accounts Payable Officer

Inspired Education Group; Auckland; On-site; NZD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Inspired Education Group in Auckland seeks an Accounts Payable Officer to own end-to-end AP processes within our school finance team. Reporting to NZ Finance Director, you will ensure accurate processing of supplier invoices and timely payments in a values-driven education environment.

This full-time role requires 3+ years in AP, proficiency with JDEdwards and Excel, and strong numerical accuracy. You will manage supplier records, assist with PO rollout, audits, and maintain confidentiality.

Qualifications

• 3+ years in accounts payable or similar finance role.
• Experience in a school or not-for-profit environment preferred.
• Proficiency in JDEdwards and Excel.
• Strong numerical accuracy and data entry skills.
• Able to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication.
• Customer service oriented with professional manner.
• Strong organisational skills and deadline management.

Responsibilities

• Enter and process daily supplier invoices with correct GL coding.
• Maintain supplier records and set up new suppliers.
• Manage weekly EFT, BPAY payments to vendors.
• Resolve supplier queries and invoice discrepancies.
• Perform supplier account reconciliations.
• Oversee petty cash and monthly credit card reconciliations.
• Support monthly GL reconciliations and broader reporting.
• Assist with rollout of a new purchase order system.
• Maintain confidentiality of financial information.
• Assist with internal and external audits as required.

Skills

Attention to detail

Numerical accuracy

Communication skills

Problem-solving

Organisational skills

Education

Accounting degree

Tools

JDEdwards

Excel

Microsoft Office

Job description

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Accounts Payable Officer

Location: Auckland, NZ

Date: 10 Sept 2026

Inspired Education is the leading global group of premium schools, with a portfolio of 126 premium private schools in 28 countries spanning 6 continents which utilise proven educational practices from every corner of the globe, ensuring over 95,000 students receive a world-class learning experience from Kindergarten to Year 13.

Founded in 2013 by Nadim M. Nsouli, Inspired is backed by investors such as Stonepeak, GIC, TA Associates, and the Oppenheimer and Mansour family offices. The Group is experiencing 20% per annum growth through acquisition, greenfield site expansion, and the development of existing schools within its portfolio. In 2023, Inspired was recognised by Beauhurst as one of the UK's top 10 highest-value private companies.

ROLE SUMMARY:

The Accounts Payable Officer plays a critical role in ensuring the smooth operation of the finance function by managing the end-to-end accounts payable process. Reporting directly to the NZ Finance Director and collaborating within a close-knit finance team, this role provides full ownership of the accounts payable responsibilities, ensuring accurate and timely processing of financial transactions.

The role requires a proactive individual who can work independently, manage competing priorities, and build positive relationships with internal stakeholders, staff and external suppliers. It offers the opportunity to contribute to continuous process improvement, support the implementation of new systems, and work in a values-driven education environment. This is a full time, permanent position based at ACG schools head office in Mount Eden.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Accurately enter and process daily supplier invoices, ensuring correct allocation to General Ledger (GL) codes.
• Maintain supplier records, including setting up new suppliers and updating existing details as needed.
• Manage weekly EFT, BPAY Foreign Invoice Payment runs, ensuring timely and accurate payment to all vendors.
• Investigate and resolve supplier queries, discrepancies, and invoice-related issues in a professional and timely manner.
• Perform supplier account reconciliations to ensure account accuracy and completeness.
• Oversee petty cash claims and monthly credit card reconciliations, ensuring compliance with internal policies.
• Assist with monthly GL reconciliations and analysis, supporting broader financial reporting processes. (Not essential)
• Process and monitor charges and credits related to school activities, ensuring alignment with student accounts.
• Collaborate with the Finance Director to support the rollout of a new purchase order system, including contributing to testing, feedback, and staff training.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in handling sensitive financial and personal information.

Assist with internal and external audits by preparing supporting documentation and responding to audit requests as required.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:

• At least 3 years of hands‑on experience in accounts payable or a similar financial role, preferably in a school or not-for-profit environment.
• Proficiency in accounting software, preferably JDEdwards and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
• Strong numerical accuracy and data entry skills.
• Solid understanding of accounting principles.
• Proven ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Effective problem‑solving skills and initiative to improve processes and systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain financial matters clearly.
• Customer service orientation with a professional, courteous manner.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES

• Detail‑Oriented: Strong focus on accuracy in billing, invoicing, and financial reporting.
• Excellent Communication Skills: Ability to liaise effectively with parents and colleagues, resolving queries with professionalism and empathy.
• Problem‑Solving Ability: Skilled at identifying financial risks and proposing practical solutions.
• Organisational Skills: Capable of managing multiple tasks, prioritising work, and adhering to deadlines.
• Customer‑Focused: Dedicated to delivering exceptional service while maintaining professionalism and approachability.
• Resilience and Adaptability: Ability to remain composed under pressure and adapt to changing responsibilities and systems.
• Proactive and Initiative‑Driven: Anticipates potential financial risks and takes proactive steps to address them.
• Continuously seeks opportunities to improve processes and systems.
• Integrity and Professionalism: Maintains confidentiality, upholds organisational values, and demonstrates ethical behaviour.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Tertiary qualifications in accounting, finance, or a related discipline.
• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in accounts payable or finance administration.

SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT:

Inspired Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre‑employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.