Accounts Payable Team Leader
Description
General information
Entity
Safran is an international high-technology group operating in the fields of aerospace (propulsion, equipment and interiors), space and defense. Its mission is to contribute sustainably to a safer world, where air transport becomes ever more environmentally friendly, comfortable and accessible. Present on every continent, the Group employs 110,000 people and generated €31.3 billion in revenue in 2025. Safran holds, either independently or through partnerships, leading global or European positions in its markets.Safran was ranked second in the Aerospace & Defense sector in TIME magazine's ""World's Best Companies 2025"" ranking.
Reference
2026-186504Position description
Domain
Performance and Support
Job field / Job profile
Finance and management - Accounting
Job title
Accounts Payable Team Leader
Employment type
Permanent
Professional category
Employees / Staff
Part time / Full time
Full-time
Job description
Accounts Payable Team Lead
Gloucester
Safran UK (SUK) is a shared services entity within the Safran Group. We are at the heart of the Group's companies across UK, providing administrative and operational support. By centralising processes and services, we help improve operational efficiency, standardise procedures, and optimise resources throughout the organisation.
We primarily provide financial and administrative support services in areas such as Finance and Purchasing; as well as specialised Human Resources functions and a broad range of expertise areas including HR Management Systems, Talent Acquisition, Central Payroll Account Management, UK Graduate Scheme Management, International Tax & Mobility and Safran University, which is responsible for talent development through training programs and structured learning and career paths.
Using best practices and technological tools, we work closely with Safran Group companies across the UK, ensuring compliance with corporate policies and promoting continuous process improvement - acting as an important contributor to the Group's growth and competitiveness.
About the Role
We are looking for an experienced and proactive Accounts Payable professional to join our team as an Accounts Payable Team Leader. This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership of the day-to-day AP function, deliver a high-quality service across the business and play a key role in driving operational excellence.
Combining strong financial and analytical skills with effective people leadership, you will lead, support and develop the Accounts Payable team, ensuring accuracy, efficiency and compliance across all activities. You will build strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders, identify opportunities for process improvement and support the introduction of new technologies to enhance the service we deliver.
As the key point of contact for Accounts Payable within the business unit, you will work closely with operational teams, Financial Controllers and Directors to provide accurate financial information, support business decision-making and help shape the future of the Accounts Payable function.
But what else? (benefits, specificities, etc.)
Looking after the people who make Safran great is our priority. We offer a range of flexible benefits designed to support you, both in and out of work, including:
• Competitive salary
• Company performance bonus scheme
• Pension scheme - up to 10% employer contribution
• Private medical insurance
• 25 days annual leave + bank holidays
• We support your ambitions with training, development, a personalised career plan and mobility opportunities.
Key Responsibilities
• Lead, coach and develop the Accounts Payable team, supporting performance, engagement and professional growth.
• Ensure accurate and timely processing of invoices, credit notes, supplier reconciliations and multi-currency payments.
• Oversee month-end activities and support operational teams with financial information, contract margins and provisions.
• Build strong relationships with suppliers and internal stakeholders, resolving queries promptly and maintaining high service standards.
• Act as the key contact for Accounts Payable within the business unit, including regular reviews with Financial Controllers and Directors.
• Identify and implement process improvements, supporting the introduction of new technologies.
• Ensure compliance with Group accounting policies, accounting standards, audit requirements and internal controls.
• Maintain secure supplier master data and bank details processes to protect against fraud.
Candidate skills & requirements
Essential
• Demonstrate experience of working within similar Accounts Payable roles.
• Proficient with MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint).
• Previous experience of working with ERP systems.
• Proficient administration, numerical, planning and organizational skills.
• A comprehensive understanding of the ‘purchase to pay' process.
• Knowledge of general accounting procedures
• Proficient and accurate in data entry and management
• Significate accounts payable or general accounting experience
• Analytical skills covering written, graphic, numerical & statistical information
Desirable
• Previous experience of working with SAP.
• Previous experience of working within a managerial role.
• Previous experience within a dynamic, responsive, fast paced team.
• Experience of working within a Shared Service Centre environment.
• Implemented new technologies
• Previous project work experience
• Change Management
• Strong coaching and people management skills
• AAT Accounting Qualification
Position location
Job location
Europe, UK, England, South West