Credit Controller

A credit controller for a real estate company is responsible for managing and overseeing the credit policies and procedures related to property transactions. This role is crucial for ensuring that the company maintains healthy cash flow and minimizes credit risk.

Responsibilities:

1. Credit Assessment:
   • Evaluate the creditworthiness of potential clients, including tenants and buyers.
   • Analyse financial statements, credit reports, and other relevant information to assess risk.
2. Payment Processing:
   • Ensure timely collection of payments from clients.
   • Monitor accounts receivable and follow up on overdue payments.
3. Debt Collection:
   • Develop and implement strategies to recover overdue payments.
   • Liaise with clients to negotiate payment plans and resolve payment issues.
   • Initiate collection/legal proceedings if necessary to recover outstanding debts.
4. Financial Reporting:
   • Prepare regular reports on the status of accounts receivable, including aging reports and collection forecasts.
   • Provide management with insights and recommendations based on credit control performance.
5. Client Relations:
   • Maintain positive relationships with clients through effective communication and problem-solving.
   • Address client inquiries and provide information regarding payment terms and credit policies.
6. Compliance and Risk Management:
   • Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and company policies related to credit control and collections.
   • Monitor market trends and regulatory changes that may impact credit control practices.
7. Internal Collaboration:
   • Work closely with other departments, such as sales, legal and finance, to ensure a coordinated approach to credit control.
   • Provide input on credit terms and conditions in contracts and agreements.

Skills:

1. Analytical Skills:
   • Strong ability to analyze financial data and credit reports.
   • Attention to detail and accuracy in credit assessments and reporting.
2. Communication Skills:
   • Excellent verbal and written communication skills for interacting with clients and colleagues.
   • Ability to explain complex financial information clearly and concisely.
3. Negotiation Skills:
   • Strong negotiation skills to work out payment plans and resolve disputes with clients.
4. Organizational Skills:
   • Ability to manage multiple accounts and prioritize tasks effectively.
   • Strong time management skills to meet deadlines and handle high volumes of work.
5. Technical Skills:
   • Proficiency in using credit management software and financial databases.
   • Familiarity with MS Office, especially Excel, for data analysis and reporting.

Requirements

1. Education:
   • A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field is often required.
   • Additional certifications in credit management, debt collection, banking or finance can be advantageous.
2. Experience:
   • Previous experience in credit control, collections, or a related role within the real estate industry is highly desirable.
   • Knowledge of real estate transactions, property management, and the housing market is beneficial.
3. Regulatory Knowledge:
   • Understanding of relevant laws and regulations and debt collection regulations.
   • Familiarity with real estate-specific regulations and compliance requirements.