Fantastic challenges. Amazing opportunities.

GKN Aerospace is reimagining air travel: going further, faster and greener! Fuelled by great people whose expertise and creativity sets the standards in our industry, we're inspired by the opportunities to innovate and break boundaries. We're proud to play a part in protecting the world's democracies. And we're committed to putting sustainability at the centre of everything we do, opening up and protecting our planet. With over 16,000 employees across 33 manufacturing sites in 12 countries we serve over 90% of the world's aircraft and engine manufacturers and achieved sales of £3.35 bn.in 2023. There are no limits to where you can take your career.

Job Summary

The AP Assistant will report directly to the AP Manager and will be responsible for delivering the Accounts Payable process This includes, ensuring the seamless end-to-end processing of invoices and payments, handling supplier queries, and ensuring compliance with company policies and service level agreements (SLAs). They will work closely with internal and external teams to resolve discrepancies, maintain data accuracy, and support process improvements.

Job Responsibilities

The AP Assistant will be required to execute the following responsibilities:

Execute the full Accounts Payable (AP) including:

Managing supplier master data
Inputting and processing invoices
Managing the approval of invoices
Managing budget holder and supplier queries
Managing payment runs
Supplier statement reconciliations
Managing and processing adjustments
Intercompany reconciliation

Process electronic and paper invoices, ensuring timely and accurate posting in the system.
Validate invoices and resolve discrepancies in line with financial controls.
Be the first point of contact for supplier queries, ensuring timely resolution in line with SLAs.
Investigate and resolve payment discrepancies, escalating issues where necessary.
Prepare and validate payment runs, so all payments are processed accurately and on time.
Maintain accurate records of transactions to ensure data integrity across finance systems.
Support internal and external audits by providing necessary documentation and information.
Conduct supplier statement reconciliations and resolve price and quantity discrepancies.
Engage with budget holders for invoice approvals and payment authorisation.
Monitor and track outstanding invoices and payments, proactively addressing delays.
Support month-end and year-end closing activities related to AP processes.
Provide regular reports on performance, highlighting key metrics and areas for improvement.
Process and distribute payments so all transactions are completed accurately and on time.
Review and analyse invoices, complying with company policies and regulatory requirements.
Identify and escalate any risks or inefficiencies in the accounts payable process.
Contribute to continuous process improvements within the AP function.
Perform knowledge transfer and training during transition periods, including developing process documentation.
Provide training and support for new team members on AP processes and systems.
Assist in maintaining and improving relationships with key suppliers, ensuring accurate data and consistent service.
Collaborate with other departments, such as procurement and treasury, to ensure alignment and improve process efficiencies.
Ensure appropriate tax treatment of invoices in line with VAT and other regulatory requirements.
Monitor and report on KPIs related to AP processes, highlighting areas for potential improvement and cost savings.
Provide proactive solutions to enhance payment processes and vendor relationships.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of accounts payable systems and processes, ensuring continuous professional development.

Essential

Job Qualifications

Experience working in a similar role
Excellent analytical skills with strong attention to detail, ensuring high accuracy in data entry and processing
Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to interact with internal and external stakeholders
Ability to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and manage multiple tasks effectively
Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel, Word, and Outlook

Desirable

Relevant degree in Finance / Accounting or similar field is preferred
Experience in a Shared Services Centre (SSC) environment for atleast 2 years.
Knowledge of ERP systems, processes and workflow technology
Experience with data analysis and reporting tools to support AP operations
Operated in complex environment with the same size and scale
Experience from working in a similar industry

We'll offer you fantastic challenges and amazing opportunities. This is your chance to be part of an organisation that has proven itself to be at the cutting edge of our industry; and is committed to pushing the boundaries even further. And with some of the best training on offer in the industry, who knows how far you can go

A Great Place to work needs a Great Way of Working

Everyone is welcome to apply to GKN. We believe that we can only achieve our ambitions through a coming together of diverse minds who enjoy collaborating in an inspirational environment. Through our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging and by living our five powerful principles we've created a culture where everyone feels welcome to contribute. It's a culture that won us The Best Workplace Culture Award. By embracing and celebrating what makes us unique we encourage everyone to bring their full self to work.

We're also committed to providing an accessible recruitment process, so if you require reasonable adjustments at any stage during our recruitment process please get in touch and let us know.

We are the place where human dreams, plus human endeavour, shape the future of aerospace innovation and technology.

Accounts Payable Administrator