Credit Controller Job Description

Ever wondered if Credit Control might be the right career path for you? GAAPweb have created this post to guide you through the role and responsibilities of Credit Controller jobs. Keep reading to learn more about what a Credit Controller does, and whether you have the skills to pursue a career in Credit Control.

• What is the role of a Credit Controller?

  Credit controllers are responsible for collecting unpaid money from individuals or corporations who have failed to process payments on time. They are also responsible for ensuring that accounts are kept fully up to date and accurate.

  Credit Controllers fulfil a challenging yet crucial role within any business – they work towards maximising sales and profit whilst minimising the risk of non-payment.

  There are two types of credit:

  • Commercial = business related
  • Consumer = credit attributed to individuals

  Credit Controllers typically work in a company’s finance or credit department, or at a 'third party' collection agency. As part of a department, they will chase late payments from suppliers and customers on behalf of the company.

  Credit control roles vary depending on the business and industry sector. However, the responsibilities and skills required remain the same.

• What are the typical duties and responsibilities of a Credit Controller?

  • Manage cash flow
  • Maximise revenue, mitigate credit risk and minimise bad debt
  • Check customer’s credit and approve or deny applications based on company standards and requirements
  • Build strong relationships with customers to create a rapport based on trust and mutual respect
  • Ensure customers pay on time
  • Resolve account queries both internally and externally
  • Set up the terms and conditions of a credit loan, negotiating repayment plans
  • Set up and maintain customer files, keeping accurate records of loans
  • Initiate legal action if debts have not been paid within the agreed time
  • Analyse the effectiveness of the credit control system and suggest improvements / implement strategies to increase profitability and reduce bad debts

• Credit Controller Qualifications and Experience

  • There is no minimum qualification to become a credit controller, however a good academic background is key for most employers
  • Strong GCSEs with particular confidence in English & Maths is important in credit control. If you have enrolled in Higher Education, then a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Mathematics, Business or the related field would be beneficial
  • Previous experience of working within an accounts function advantageous
  • Previous experience of credit control, customer service, accounts and bookkeeping
  • Whatever your experience level, CICM Qualifications can be taken to enhance your Credit Control potential.

• What skills do you need to be a Credit Controller?

  There are several hard and soft skills that Credit Controllers are required to have. These skills include:

  • Excellent communication skills which translates into excellent customer service
  • Able to exercise good business judgement; listen to customer needs and negotiate solutions
  • Excellent customer service; able to explain financial matters clearly to clients and other employees
  • Strong critical thinking and decision-making skills
  • Strong analytical skills, able to reconcile complex accounts
  • Strong organisational skills, able to work to strict deadlines and prioritise a demanding workload
  • Able to keep calm in high pressure situations
  • Excellent eye for detail
  • Competence in all elements of Microsoft Office, Excel and accounting software programmes

• Credit Controller Salaries

  According to our latest Salary Survey, 44% of Credit Controllers received a salary increase and the average Credit Controller salary was £32,778. In addition, 61% of Credit Controllers took home a bonus on top of their earnings.

• Credit Controller jobs on GAAPweb

  Hopefully this Credit Controller job description article has helped you to decide whether this career path is right for you. If you want to know more about the credit control challenge or a career in accountancy then you can read more career advice on GAAPweb.

  Ready to apply? Browse the latest Credit Controller jobs on GAAPweb today and set up a job alert so you can be one of the first to apply.