We are seeking a proactive and diligent individual to join our real estate organisation as a Collections Officer. This key role is responsible for managing the company’s receivables, ensuring timely collection of outstanding accounts, and maintaining positive relationships with tenants and clients. If you are detail-oriented, possess strong negotiation skills, and are committed to delivering excellent customer service, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities for Collections Officer in Real Estate
- Monitor and manage the status of accounts receivable, ensuring accurate records of all client and tenant payments.
- Communicate promptly and professionally with tenants, clients, and stakeholders regarding overdue accounts through phone, email, and written correspondence.
- Initiate and follow up on collection processes in accordance with company policy and legal requirements.
- Negotiate payment arrangements, resolve disputes, and recommend solutions to outstanding receivables issues.
- Coordinate with internal teams, including Property Management, Finance, and Legal, to ensure effective resolution of account issues.
- Prepare regular reports on collections activities, outstanding debts, and performance metrics for management review.
- Maintain comprehensive, confidential, and up-to-date documentation of collections activities and client communications.
- Advise on credit control and contribute to the development of improved debt collection processes.
- Escalate high-risk accounts appropriately and support legal proceedings as required, ensuring compliance with all regulations.
- Champion a culture of accountability, integrity, and client-focused service throughout the collections process.
Essential Qualifications and Experience for Collections Officer Roles
- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Finance, Accounting, or a related field is preferred.
- Minimum of 3 years’ experience in collections, credit control, or accounts management, preferably within property, real estate, or a related sector.
- Strong knowledge of collections legislation and regulatory requirements in the UK.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to handle sensitive situations tactfully.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel) and experience with financial management or property management software.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with meticulous attention to detail and accuracy.
- Fluency in English is required; additional language proficiency is advantageous.
Key Skills and Attributes for Effective Debt Collection
- Exceptional organisational abilities to manage competing priorities and a diverse portfolio of accounts.
- Excellent negotiation and conflict resolution skills, balancing assertiveness with professionalism and empathy.
- Customer-focused approach, aiming to preserve long-term business relationships while meeting collection targets.
- Capacity to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team and across departments.
- Demonstrates discretion, confidentiality, and ethical handling of sensitive financial information.
- Proactive approach to process improvement and a commitment to delivering high-quality results.
Desirable Competencies and Additional Attributes for Collections Professionals
- Experience with collections in the real estate sector, including residential and commercial property portfolios.
- Familiarity with court processes related to debt recovery is advantageous.
- Previous involvement in developing or implementing credit policies and procedures.
- Demonstrated ability to foster positive relationships with clients and resolve complex account queries.
- Adaptable, resilient, and motivated to achieve collection targets in a dynamic environment.
If you are eager to contribute to the financial health of a growing real estate company and thrive in a dynamic, client-focused collections environment, we invite you to apply and become a valued member of our team.