Senior Debtors Controller (Manager) at CLS Human Capital Specialists

Job Purpose:

• The Senior Debtors Controller will oversee the firm’s accounts receivable processes, ensuring efficient client payment collections and maintaining precise electronic records through e-filing systems. This role is critical to enhancing cash flow, managing client trust accounts, and leading a small team to uphold financial integrity. 

REQUIREMENTS

Minimum education (essential):

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Accounting, Finance, or a related field

Minimum applicable experience (years):

• 5-7 years

Required nature of experience:

• Debtors control or accounts receivable in a professional services or legal environment
• Supervisory experience managing a finance or admin team
• Proficiency with e-filing systems for financial and client documentation

Skills and Knowledge (essential):

• Advanced proficiency in MS Excel (e.g., pivot tables, VLOOKUP) and accounting/practice management software
• Strong knowledge of e-filing processes (e.g., client billing, trust account records)
• Excellent analytical, negotiation, and team leadership skills

Other:

• Own transport and valid driver’s license

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS, WEIGHTS AND OBJECTIVES

• Debtor Management
• Monitor client invoices and ensure prompt payment collections.
• Manage trust account allocations and client payment terms.
• Reduce overdue accounts and mitigate financial risks.
• Maintain up-to-date debtor records aligned with firm standards.

E-Filing Administration

• Administer e-filing of client invoices, statements, and payment records.
• Ensure compliance with electronic record-keeping regulations and firm policies.
• Train team members on e-filing protocols and system updates.
• Enhance e-filing efficiency through process optimization.

Team Leadership

• Lead and mentor a team of debtors clerks.
• Delegate tasks and oversee team performance metrics.
• Handle escalated client payment disputes effectively.
• Promote a culture of accuracy and accountability within the team.

Reporting & Reconciliations

• Conduct reconciliations of client accounts and trust balances.
• Generate monthly reports on debtor aging and collection progress.
• Identify financial discrepancies and propose corrective actions.
• Provide insights to management for cash flow planning.

Client Liaison & Compliance

• Engage with clients to secure overdue payments professionally.
• Negotiate payment arrangements while preserving client relationships.
• Ensure adherence to South African financial and tax regulations.
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all client interactions.