JOB PURPOSE

 The Director - Accounts Receivable leads the end-to-end sundry and student billing, revenue collection, and credit control operations.  They ensure institutional cash flow stability, manage system automation, and enforce strict compliance with financial regulations.

• To ensure the smooth and efficient running of finance accounts receivable/student finance  operations and oversee overall processes and controls for receivable management
• Accounts Receivable matters, including cash flow forecasting, receivable reporting; managing the customer accounts
• Oversee activities to ensure cost-effective receivables management
• To liaise with external stakeholders and partners, ensuring smooth running of accounts receivable process and operations

KEY RESULT AREAS / RESPONSIBILITIES

Accounts Receivable/Student Finance Operations

• Oversee the end-to-end accounts receivable process, including invoicing, cash application and collections.
• Ensure accurate and timely processing of customer payments and resolution of discrepancies.
• Manage customer accounts, monitor aging reports and minimize overdue receivables.

Credit and Risk Management

• Establish and maintain credit management procedures in accordance with the University’s policies.
• Monitor and manage credit risks to minimise bad debt exposure.

Collections and Customer Relations

• Implement effective collection strategies to reduce outstanding receivables and improve cash flow.
• Resolve escalated customer disputes and issues with professionalism and efficiency.
• Foster strong relationships with customers to ensure satisfaction and timely payment.
• Reduce the number of all overdue accounts

Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure compliance with internal controls, financial policies and relevant regulations.
• Prepare and present AR metrics, including DSO (days sales outstanding), collection rates and aging trends.
• Support audits by providing necessary documentation and responding to inquiries.
• Ensure related policies and procedures are updated on a regular basis. Document new ones
• Oversee all receivable account reconciliation and prepare monthly reports for discussion

Process Improvement and Technology Utilization

• Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy in AR operations.
• Utilize AR automation tools and ERP systems to streamline workflows and enhance reporting capabilities.
• Stay informed of emerging technologies and best practices in accounts receivable management.
• Analyse trends, identify areas of improvement and present findings to management.

Team Leadership and Development

• Supervise, mentor and develop a team of accounts receivable professionals.
• Provide training and guidance to ensure adherence to policies and procedures as well as to ensure that the team is equipped to do their jobs.
• Foster a collaborative and results-oriented team environment.

Other Responsibilities

• Ensure the team operates in a robust control environment
• Any other responsibilities assigned from time to time. 

JOB SPECIFICATIONS  

• Responsible for the collection of payments from customers on behalf of the company
• Supervise accounts receivable team and oversee timely and accurate invoicing of customers and handling of overdue payments according to the company’s policies

 RELATED EXPERIENCE

At least 10 years of working experience in a related field, with a minimum 3 years of experience in a supervisory role.

COMPETENCIES (KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES)

1. Advanced knowledge of financial operations and accounting principles, with the ability to analyze complex financial data and develop actionable insights.
2. Strong skills in project management, process improvement, and system implementation, with the ability to lead cross-functional teams to achieve objectives.
3. Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making skills, with the ability to identify root causes and develop innovative solutions.
4. Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize competing demands and meet tight deadlines.
5. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels.