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

Newly fitout offices based in North Sydney, hybrid role 3-4 days office based..

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.
• 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.

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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

• Valid Working with Children Check.
• Ongoing commitment to professional development.

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.