Accounts Payable Lead

HAVE YOU GOT SPIRIT?
 
In operation since 1985, Barrow Gas Terminal is a key piece of the UK’s energy infrastructure and supports the Morecambe Bay gas fields. The terminal has played a long‑standing role in processing and delivering natural gas, supporting both local employment and national energy supply.
 
With a focus on safety, environmental sustainability and community engagement, we believe in operational excellence at every stage of production. If you are ready to take the next step in your career with a dynamic and energetic team, then we are keen to hear from you.
 
 
THE OPPORTUNITY – ACCOUNTS PAYABLE LEAD
 
Responsible for the seamless execution of the inhouse AP process using Medius AP automation software; aligning AP processes across the business to one methodology, maximising the Medius software tool and creating efficiencies for the internal processes; managing and co-ordinating the AP Analysts.

Location: Barrow-in-Furness
Duration: 2-year contract
Contract Type: PAYE
Day Rate: TBC; For your application to be progressed, please ensure you provide a PAYE day rate banding expectation.  Please note that there is no travel and accommodation allowance provided.
 

• Please only apply if you have existing right-to-work in the UK.
• Please outline notice period/availability to start.

 
Closing Date for Applications: 16th July 2026
 
Spirit Energy currently have a non-contractual hybrid working arrangement for all office-based workers. 4 days must be worked in the office with compulsory days being Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. The fourth day worked in-office (either Monday or Friday) is of the worker’s choosing but should be in keeping with what is most efficient and effective for their team. The office is open 5 days a week for full time, in-office working if this is the contractor’s preference.  
 
AND NOW FOR THE TECHNICAL BIT…
In role, you will be required to:
 

• Ensure accurate and timely maintenance of ledgers, including supplier and customer reconciliations (e.g., GRIR).
• Own and coordinate aged debtors and creditors reviews, ensuring transparency and no surprises at month- or year-end.
• Maintain the integrity and effectiveness of financial systems, including Medius (AP), Treasury management, and banking platforms, driving continuous improvements in collaboration with IS.
• Develop and enhance existing KPIs and add/update to reflect use of Medius
• Ensure compliance with supplier setup processes, VAT requirements, and regulatory reporting (e.g., payment practices reporting).
• Work closely with Treasury to manage payments, clearing accounts, and ensure appropriate segregation of duties within financial processes.
• Collaborate with Tax to ensure accurate VAT recording and compliance with reporting requirements.
• Identify and resolve mis-postings promptly, implementing process improvements to prevent recurrence.
• Review and enhance purchase-to-pay (S2P) processes in partnership with Procurement and Supply Chain to ensure efficiency and control.
• Ensure all manual payments are paid accurately and on time (NB exception Treasury payments will be paid by Treasury).
• Work with Treasury to ensure no issues with clearing accounts or payments
• Strengthen internal controls through regular review and implementation of improvements.
• Act as a key point of contact for auditors, supporting audit requirements and queries.
• Deliver timely and professional resolution of business queries.
• Prepare payment practice report and submit on time (half yearly)
• Support the Finance Director in their agenda
• Provide analytical support and respond to ad hoc requests from the wider finance function.
• Any other associated duties as reasonably required.

 
 
ABOUT YOU
To be successful in this role, we are looking for:
 

• Significant experience in purchase ledger, accounts payable and team leadership
• Track record of managing and driving business control within an E&P or similar business
• Experience of SAP ERP, BW and BPC experience desirable
• Experience of Medius (or a comparable AP system) preferred
• Effective change agent
• Qualified Accountant (ACA, CA, ACCA, CIMA)

 
 
In addition to technical knowledge and credibility, we are looking for someone who lives our values - Agility, Collaboration, Courage, Care, and Delivery. A person who embraces and supports change, while ensuring the safe and efficient operation of a mature asset.  


People are our business worldwide
 
Orion Group was founded in 1987 and is now one of the largest, independent, international recruitment companies. We have a network of 200 employees working from 24 offices, delivering a range of services – Talent Acquisition, Recruitment Outsourcing Services, Retained Search, Global Workforce Solutions, Completions & Commissioning and Materials Management – across 68 countries. As a global leader in workforce solutions, we recruit personnel across the Engineering & Technical, Office & Commercial, Scientific and Skilled Trades disciplines, for sectors including Oil & Gas, Life Science, Power & Utilities, Constructions & Infrastructure, Manufacturing and Renewables.