Lead Accounts Officer

About the role

The Lead Accounts Officer will act as a key liaison for the Head of Accounts Payable, supporting overall planning, review and analysis of the accounts payable function. The role ensures timely processing of payment requests and maintains strong relationships with internal customers and vendors.

Key responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all Accounts Payable inquiries.
• Review and approve payments efficiently and accurately.
• Monitor dashboards, vendor balances, aged payables and outstanding advances, providing data for analysis.
• Maintain accurate records, reconcile vendor statements and employee expenses, and resolve discrepancies.
• Engage regularly with business teams to address critical financial and operational matters.
• Escalate critical issues to the Head of Accounts Payable and Finance Director.
• Collaborate with IT to automate processes and improve reporting.
• Enhance the quality, accuracy and presentation of existing reports and design new ones as needed.
• Assist in developing and implementing Accounts Payable policies and procedures.
• Train and mentor Accounts Payable staff on best practices.
• Work closely with other departments to troubleshoot operational issues.
• Liaise with external auditors during annual audits and support VAT and internal tax audits.
• Perform ad‑hoc tasks and projects assigned by the Head of Accounts Payable.

Required profile

• Minimum of 3 years’ experience in a similar accounts payable role.
• Semi‑Qualified Chartered Accountant, Bachelor/Master of Commerce, or equivalent qualification.
• Proven ability to build strong relationships with vendors and suppliers.
• Strong prioritisation and multitasking capabilities.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong organisational skills.
• Experience leading a team of accountants.
• Proficiency in Arabic (written and spoken).

Required skills