A collections officer is responsible for managing and collecting outstanding debts from clients or customers, ensuring timely payments, and minimizing company losses[5].
Main Duties and Responsibilities:
- Review and manage the debtors list to identify overdue payments and follow up as necessary[1].
- Initiate and maintain communication with debtors via phone, email, letters, or in-person visits to remind them of their obligations and discuss payment options[1][5].
- Advise debtors on payment methods, negotiate payment plans suited to individual circumstances, and provide guidance for settling debts[1][5].
- Update and maintain accurate customer payment and account records; prepare financial statements as required by banks or credit departments[1][5].
- Issue final notice warnings when debts remain unpaid and, if necessary, initiate legal proceedings or involve external agencies to recover debts[1][7].
- Work with legal and insurance professionals to ensure compliance with debt collection laws and regulations, and assist in the resolution of complex cases[1][5].
- Respond to customer queries regarding their accounts or the collections process, escalating issues when needed[1][5].
- Investigate and research debtors’ ability to pay using internal and external records, including contact with employers or public agencies[3][7].
- Maintain accounts with relevant documentation, initiate appropriate collection actions, and perform necessary account adjustments or cancellations[3].
- May include fieldwork to enforce collections, seize property if necessary, and appear in court on collection matters[7].
Key Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in accounting, business management, or related field (often preferred)[5].
- Previous experience in collections or a related financial role[5].
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills[5].
- Attention to detail and familiarity with payment plans, accounting software, and state/federal debt collection laws[5].
- Resilience and patience for handling challenging or uncooperative debtors[5].