Description

Accounts payable clerks typically work for accounting firms or companies with accounting departments. They are responsible for coordinating different functions related to accounts payable for their company. Their responsibilities include, among other things the entry of data and handling customer queries as well as preparing financial statements and assisting with maintenance of vendors. In all their tasks, the clerks must ensure an extremely high level of precision.

Employers frequently encourage accountants to implement process improvements in order to make their work more efficient. These employees must adhere to their company's policies and procedures, and generally accepted accounting standards (GAAP). They must also adhere to internal audit procedures and collaborate closely together with the internal auditors. Clerks of accounts payable must stay current with the latest practices in their field. Additionally, they might be required to teach new clerks for accounts payable.

High school graduation or a similar qualification is usually required for this job, and experience in the relevant field is usually recommended or required. A bachelor's qualification in the field of accounting, or a related field is a good option. Clerks in Accounts Payable must be proficient in basic computer programs like Microsoft Office, the Microsoft Office suite and any required accounting software. They should possess good communications and interpersonal skills. They must be able to adhere to deadlines and pay careful attention to the smallest of details.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Accounts Payable Clerk with 0-3 years of experience in the United Kingdom, your main responsibilities include:

  • Processing incoming invoices, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company policies.
  • Reconciling vendor statements to ensure timely payments and resolve any discrepancies.
  • Maintaining organized and accurate financial records, both physical and digital.
  • Collaborating with internal departments and external stakeholders to resolve payment-related issues and ensure smooth operations.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For an Accounts Payable Clerk job role, the following qualifications are required:

  • Proficiency in financial software and systems to process and maintain accurate accounts payable records, including invoice coding, payment scheduling, and reconciliation.
  • Attention to detail to review and validate invoices, ensuring their accuracy and compliance with company policies and procedures.
  • Strong numerical and mathematical skills to perform calculations and verify payment amounts, detecting any discrepancies or errors.
  • Time management abilities to prioritize tasks effectively, meet payment deadlines, and handle multiple invoices simultaneously while maintaining accuracy and efficiency.

Essential Skills For Accounts Payable Clerk

1

Communicating

2

Data Entry

3

Managing Accounts

4

Accounting

Skills That Affect Accounts Payable Clerk Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Sap FI-AP

8%

Office 365

1%

Financial Accounting

10%

Account Reconciliation

1%

Career Prospects

The role of an Accounts Payable Clerk in the United Kingdom is an important position responsible for managing and processing payments. For professionals with 0-3 years of experience in this field, here are following alternative roles to consider:

  • Accounts Payable Assistant: A junior role that assists in processing invoices, maintaining vendor records, and resolving payment discrepancies.
  • Payroll Administrator: A position focused on managing and processing employee payroll, including calculating wages, deductions, and tax withholding.
  • Billing Coordinator: A role that involves preparing and sending invoices to customers, tracking payment receipts, and resolving billing inquiries.
  • Financial Administrator: A position involved in various financial tasks, such as managing accounts receivable, reconciling bank statements, and assisting with budgeting and financial reporting.

How to Learn

According to recent data, the accounts payable clerk role in the United Kingdom is expected to experience steady growth in the market. Over the past 10 years, the job role has shown consistent demand and is projected to continue to do so in the future. With businesses expanding and financial management becoming increasingly important, the need for accounts payable clerks is anticipated to rise. As a result, there will likely be a significant number of employment opportunities available in this field. This growth is supported by data from various sources and industry reports, indicating a positive outlook for individuals seeking a career in accounts payable clerk roles in the UK.