Purchase Ledger Controller

Solent Group work with a diverse portfolio of Retailers and supply bespoke products within various categories, including Health & Beauty, Household Impulse Snacking and Reusable Bags. We are proud to be best-in-class when it comes to own-label product innovation. Our Categories are fast-paced with ever-evolving trends and a host of ground-breaking products coming to market on a regular basis – we add value to retailers by leading and owning each category

Here at Solent we want people to be extraordinary. We pride ourselves on creating and producing amazing products and brands for our Global Customers. You will be joining a company with offices globally across South Africa, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Vietnam, and the UK

LOCATION: Hybrid (2 days per week in Christchurch, Dorset)

Purpose of the role:

The Purchase Ledger controller is responsible for managing the company’s financial transactions, ensuring that invoices are accurately recorded, approved, and paid on time. This role is crucial for maintaining strong vendor relationships and upholding financial transparency. The position requires attention to detail and good organisational skills in a fast paced, deadline-driven environment.

The role involves working closely with internal and external stakeholders at all levels, including overseas contacts, and maintaining positive supplier relationships through regular communication. The Purchase Ledger Controller must strictly adhere to group requirements regarding new supplier acceptance, supplier profile creation, and supplier payment procedures

Key Responsibilities:

• Invoice Management Preparing and processing high volumes of invoices across multi databases. Verifying, processing and recording invoices to ensure they match purchase orders and receipts preventing duplicate or unauthorised payments
• Payment Processing Schedule weekly payments, ensuring that all financial obligations are met on time to maintain vendor trust and credibility. Manage bank balances and accounts - ensuring sufficient currency in each account for payment runs, daily cash receipt management. Assist in weekly cashflow forecasting
• Monitor AP aging and resolve discrepancies to ensure timely payments and avoid late fees
• Maintain positive relationships with vendors and respond to enquiries professionally, resolving invoices discrepancies, payment issues, vendor disputes in a timely manner
• Request and review monthly statement of accounts for all vendors
• Support purchase order approvals and compliance with authorization thresholds
• Management of the accounts inbox
• Assist in leading and developing accounts payable function
• Establish and enforce standard operating procedures (SOPs) to improve efficiency and accuracy
• Support internal and external audits by providing documentation and explanations.
• Support month end and year end close processes

 

About you:

• Proven experience in accounts payable /Finance role is essential
• Experience in working under multi-company environment would be an advantage
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications - with strong Excel skills
• Proficient in accounting systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, or similar)
• Knowledge of accounting principles and AP best practices
• Familiar with accounts reconciliation
• Strong attention to detail with a dedication to accuracy
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with leadership ability
• Ability to analyse large sets of data and work in a fast-paced environment, with ability to under pressure
• Collaborative team player
• Commercially aware, with a strong grasp of the bigger picture

What we offer:

• Competitive salary with annual salary reviews
• 25 days holiday per annum, increasing to 27 days after 3 years’ service and 30 days after 5 years’ service
• Extensive benefits programme including buying additional holiday, medical cash plan, access to mental health support and many other benefits
• Flexible hours and work from home available to all staff
• Great learning and development and progression opportunities · Yearly bonus structure (based on company targets)
• Enhanced Maternity and Paternity Leave
• Generous Company Sick Pay
• Pension Scheme Contribution
• Solent social events run by our inhouse Social Team
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Free parking on Christchurch Quay