Credit Controller – Job Description
Main Duties
The job involves deciding whether to lend money to creditors as well as managing existing debts. You may be involved with lending to businesses or to members of the public, depending on the sector you are based in. All businesses need someone working in credit control.
The job will involve checking credit rating and deciding whether to offer credit. A credit controller will need to be involved with setting up terms and conditions for loans. They will also have to deal with any queries about payments and details of the loans. They will have to make sure that payments are made in time and if they cannot be, renegotiate the payment terms. This may involve dealing with upset or irate customers so a calm and professional manner would be needed.
If money owed is not repaid then the credit controller will need to stop the supply of goods or services to the customer or even start legal action to get the payments that way. Court appearances may therefore be a possibility.
This will be an office based job and therefore would normally have standard office hours of Monday-Friday 9-5. They may be some overtime required and part-time work is often available.
Expected Salary
The starting salary would be £16,000 to £25,000 but has good prospects with £50,000 plus availbale for more senior positions.
Pros
Lots of different people and customers to deal with so great variety.
Interesting role with different things to do.
Good working hours.
Cons
Can be high pressured if terms and conditions for loans are not properly put together.
Collecting payments from bad payers can be stressful.
Having to take legal action is not pleasant.
Qualifications Required
At least 5 A-C passes at GCSE.
An HND or BTEC in business or finance would be preferable.
There is a diploma available from the Institute of Credit Management which would help your chances of a role. There are three levels – 2, 3 and 5 in credit management, that you can study for.
Financial qualifications could be advantageous too.
Required Skills
The ability to work alone or as part of a teamPolite but also firm and professional approach with customersGood communication skillsAttention to detailGood time management skills, to reach deadlines on timeIT skillsNot easily upset if customers get cross or upset