Heriot-Watt University Student Union
Heriot-Watt University Student Union
Heriot-Watt University Student Union is an independent, democratic, student-led non-profit serving more than 10,000 students across three campuses in Scotland. Its work extends beyond academic life, combining student representation and support with hospitality and food and beverage services, advice resources, events, societies, volunteering, and personal development opportunities. Through initiatives such as The Advice Hub and its programme of activities, the Union helps students engage with university life, access practical guidance, and build connections across the Heriot-Watt community.

Accounts Payable Supervisor – Hybrid, UK

Lead invoice, expense and payment operations for Heriot-Watt University Student Union while developing the Accounts Payable team, strengthening financial controls and improving Oracle Fusion processes.

Description

  • Lead the University’s Accounts Payable function and drive its ongoing improvement
  • Provide visible, inclusive and supportive leadership to the Accounts Payable team
  • Coach, motivate and develop colleagues through one-to-ones, objective setting, feedback and Performance Development Reviews
  • Manage end-to-end daily Accounts Payable delivery across the University
  • Oversee invoice and expense processing, scholarships, payment preparation, supplier statement reconciliations and exception resolution
  • Plan capacity and priorities for routine operations, month-end, year-end, audit and other high-pressure periods
  • Resolve queries, complaints and escalations promptly and professionally
  • Maintain business continuity plans and cover for critical activities
  • Ensure compliance with financial regulations, delegated authorities, policies and procedures
  • Maintain controls for supplier data, invoice approvals, payment preparation, segregation of duties and duplicate, erroneous or fraudulent payments
  • Support audits, respond to findings and complete agreed actions
  • Maintain standard operating procedures, process maps, guidance and control documentation
  • Use root-cause analysis to improve processes and reduce manual work
  • Work with Finance Systems and stakeholders to optimise Oracle Fusion, workflows and reporting
  • Lead improvement projects from definition through implementation, adoption and benefits review
  • Develop KPIs and analyse data to identify trends, risks, capacity constraints and improvement priorities
  • Prepare reports and commentary for Finance leadership and stakeholders
  • Build relationships across the University and improve the end-to-end procure-to-pay process
  • Represent Accounts Payable in meetings, projects and working groups
  • Make operational decisions within delegated authority and escalate material issues
  • Own delivery against objectives, service measures, audit actions and improvement plans

Requirements

  • Degree-level education, an AAT qualification or equivalent relevant professional experience
  • Evidence of continuing professional development
  • Substantial experience in Accounts Payable or closely related financial operations
  • Experience managing financial controls and resolving complex issues
  • Experience leading, coaching and developing a team positively
  • Experience setting expectations, managing performance and supporting change
  • Confident use of ERP systems and management information
  • Strong Excel skills
  • Ability to use data to improve decision-making and performance
  • Practical understanding of segregation of duties, supplier and payment controls, reconciliations, audit evidence and operational risk
  • Experience diagnosing root causes, simplifying processes, documenting procedures and implementing sustainable improvements
  • Ability to build credible relationships, influence constructively and explain complex requirements clearly

Benefits

  • 33 days of annual leave plus 9 university closure days, including Christmas Eve when it falls on a weekday
  • Hybrid working in line with university arrangements
  • Flexible working patterns, including part-time and job-share options
  • Total rewards and benefits provided by Heriot-Watt University
  • An environment focused on equality, diversity and inclusion
  • Well-being and inclusiveness support
  • Professional development and continuing professional development opportunities

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