The versatile role of a Credit Controller is crucial to the financial health of an organisation. Els Vander Borght, consultant at staffing specialist Walters People, explains more about the job responsibilities, career opportunities and salary of a Credit Controller. Furthermore, she also reveals which skillset is key to success in this role.

What does the job of Credit Controller entail?

"The role of Credit Controller is twofold and the practical interpretation of this position depends to a large extent on the organisation you are employed by," Els explains. "On the one hand, there is the analytical part, where as Credit Controller you check the creditworthiness of customers and determine payment and credit limits. On the other hand, as Credit Controller you are responsible for following up payments. If, for one reason or another, customers do not pay outstanding invoices on time, it is your job to quickly intervene and find a solution together with the customer. If that fails and the situation persists, you take further legal action and engage a bailiff or collection agency."

As Credit Controller, you will be assigned a fixed client portfolio, the scope of which depends on the size and operations of the company. On a monthly basis, you will report the status of both good and bad debtors to management and other relevant departments within the organisation so that they maintain an overview of the financial situation.

"In some organisations, the Credit Controller is also called customer accountant," Els notes. "This usually does refer to an accounting function in which you not only enter invoices, but also take care of monitoring payments."

What skills do you need as a Credit Controller?

While a bachelor's or master's degree in finance is a good starting point for this position, it is not a must. However, possessing the right personality is crucial. A good Credit Controller is constantly focused on building strong relationships with the customers in his or her portfolio. "You must therefore enjoy interacting with people, have a good listening ear and possess a diplomatic way of communicating. After all, money is and will always be a sensitive issue. At the same time - and this is what makes the desired profile for this job so specific - you need to have a firm grip to act decisively when needed. You determine the rules and must also ensure that they are followed. In other words, you are strict but fair," Els continues.

Also contributing to your success as a Credit Controller are accuracy, strong planning skills and the ability to deal with deadlines. Since the customer portfolio in most organisations includes customers from both parts of the country, a good knowledge of Dutch and French is essential. With an international client base, knowledge of English will come in handy as well.

What is the demand for Credit Controllers?

Figures from Jobfeed show that 11% more vacancies for Credit Controllers have been published since the beginning of this year than in the same period last year. Els confirms this upward trend: "We are currently experiencing economically tense times. Many companies are in worse shape than, say, a year or a year and a half ago and therefore feel the need to boost their cash flow - including through tighter credit control and payment monitoring. Combine this increased need with the fact that organisations demand a very specific set of soft skills for this role, and you understand that opportunities are up for grabs for professionals with the right profile."

What are the career opportunities for Credit Controllers?

Els: "To start with, Credit Controller is a role you grow into. Do you have a first experience with bookkeeping and/or monitoring payments and do you enjoy contact with customers? Then Credit Controller is a good next step in your career. Experienced Credit Controllers can then evolve into a management position and lead a team of Credit Controllers. However, if you do not have the ambition to supervise a team, you can of course develop further into a true expert within credit control, or expand your scope to several countries or even continents."

How much does a Credit Controller earn?

"A Credit Controller with around 3 years of experience can expect a gross monthly salary of EUR 2200 to 2900. Professionals with 3-6 years of experience will see their gross monthly salary go up to 2800 - 3400 EUR. If you have more than 6 years' experience, you can expect a salary between EUR 3300 and 4200 gross per month. On top of that, of course, there are fringe benefits such as meal vouchers, group and/or hospitalisation insurance. Depending on the sector and the size of the organisation and the level of the position, some organisations also offer a company car," Els concludes.

 

Find out more?

Would you like to work as a Credit Controller? Take a look at our most recent jobs in credit control.

In need of reinforcement within your team? Submit your vacancy to Walters People or contact one of our offices. Our consultants will be happy to help you.

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