Accounts Assistant – Accounts Payable

Department: Finance

Reports: Finance Manager

The Mercure London Earls Court hotel is a newly renovated property in Southwest London. The property is a large conferencing & group hotel comprising a total of 508 keys, across two distinct brands within Accor, Ibis & Mercure. As the property is a combo there are 226 Ibis rooms & 282 Mercure rooms. The London Suite is the main ballroom for all types of events. The London Suite is extremely versatile and plays a pivotal role in the property’s overall performance. The London Suite is divisible into nine separate meeting rooms, which when combined can be one of the largest pillar free spaces in London for events up to 1200 guests. The F&B outlets in the property have been created by PARIS SOCIETY. The F&B space named Barnaby’s, is perfect for social events and either the Barnaby’s Kitchen or Barnaby’s Lounge Bar can be semi or completely privatised for groups, events or additional catering / meeting space for larger residential bookings/ functions.

As an Accounts Assistant – Accounts Payable, you will manage the end-to-end accounts payable process in a dynamic hotel environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring timely and accurate processing of supplier invoices, maintaining strong supplier relationships, and ensuring compliance with internal policies and procedures. Experience with Xero accounting software and procurement systems is essential.

MAIN RESPONSIBIITIES

• Process vendor invoices accurately and efficiently, ensuring proper authorisation and coding in accordance with the chart of accounts and cost centres.
• Match invoices with purchase orders and delivery notes through the procurement system.
• Maintain and reconcile the Accounts Payable ledger, ensuring all payments and credits are accurately recorded.
• Prepare weekly payment runs and manage payment schedules, ensuring payments are made on time.
• Liaise with suppliers to resolve discrepancies, manage queries, and maintain strong professional relationships.
• Ensure compliance with company procurement and financial control policies.
• Reconcile supplier statements and resolve any outstanding issues.
• Support month-end closing activities by providing accruals and AP reports as required.
• Assist with internal and external audit processes by providing requested documentation.
• Continuously improve AP processes for better efficiency and accuracy.
• Assisting the F&B Cost Control function during the month – Stock take, menu pricing analysis, Spot checks in all stock storing areas, preparing monthly F&B pack.
• Be flexible in working across other areas of the accounting function as assigned by the Director of Finance / Finance Manager for career development.

Undertake any other Finance and Accounting duties as requested by the Director of Finance / Finance Manager.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Proven experience in a similar Accounts Payable role, preferably in the hospitality or hotel industry.
• Strong knowledge and practical experience with Xero accounting software.
• Familiarity with hotel procurement systems.
• Good understanding of purchase-to-pay processes and internal control frameworks.
• Knowledge of VAT and general accounting principles.
• Excellent numerical accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and manage deadlines.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills for supplier and internal team coordination.
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other MS Office applications.

NOTE: The Company reserves the right to amend this job description from time to time to accommodate the requirements of the business and the evolving nature of the role.

WHAT IS IN FOR YOU

• Employee benefit card offering discounted rates at Accor worldwide
• £5 for any name mention
• £200 for the Heartist of the month (Employee of the month)
• Free and delicious meal breaks on duty
• Complimentary stays in UK and North Ireland
• Friends & Family discounts
• 50% food discounts in our restaurants
• Pension Scheme
• Health Insurance
• Eye Test Vouchers
• Cycle to work Scheme
• Staff Uniforms Provided
• Learning programs through our Academies
• Wonderful and fun colleagues
• Opportunity to develop your talent and grow within your property and across the world!
• Ability to make a difference through our Corporate Social Responsibility activities, like Planet 21

Candidates must have the right to work in the UK