Accounts Payable Officer

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 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.  This is a 4 day a week position and will initially be based in Woollahra for 4 weeks and then based in our new head office in North Sydney.
 

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to continuous process improvement, support the implementation of new systems, and work in a values-driven education environment.

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 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.
• Process and monitor charges and credits related to school activities, ensuring alignment with student accounts.
• Provide high-quality customer service to parents regarding payment queries, account charges, and transactions via phone, email, and in-person interactions.
• Support staff with questions related to invoicing, parent charges, and financial processes.
• Receive and process payments from parents, ensuring all records are maintained accurately.
• 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.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE:

• 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 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.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES:

• Passionate about education and committed to the holistic development of young learners.
• Creative and innovative in teaching approaches, with the ability to inspire and motivate students.
• Patient, empathetic, and understanding, with a strong ability to support students’ emotional and social well-being.
• Highly organised, with excellent time management skills and attention to detail.
• Collaborative team player who works well with colleagues, parents, and other stakeholders.
• Resilient and adaptable, able to handle challenges and changes.

QUALIFICATIONS:

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

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Valid Working with Children Check.
• Willingness to participate in school events and activities outside of regular school hours as required.

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.