Department: Finance / Accounts
Reports To: Finance Manager / Head of Accounts
Job Summary
The Accounts Receivable Officer is responsible for managing incoming payments, ensuring accurate invoicing, monitoring outstanding receivables, and maintaining healthy cash flow for the organization. The role involves close coordination with the sales and distribution teams to ensure timely collections, especially within a manufacturing and distribution environment.
Key Responsibilities
Prepare and issue accurate invoices to customers and distributors.
Monitor customer accounts to ensure timely payments and follow up on outstanding debts.
Maintain up-to-date records of all receivables and customer transactions.
Reconcile accounts receivable ledger to ensure all payments are properly posted and accounted for.
Investigate and resolve discrepancies in billing and payments.
Generate aging reports and provide regular updates on receivables status to management.
Ensure compliance with company credit policies and procedures.
Liaise with the sales team to track customer balances and support collection efforts.
Process and record incoming payments (cash, bank transfers, POS, etc.).
Assist in evaluating customer creditworthiness and recommending credit limits.
Support month-end closing activities related to receivables.
Maintain proper documentation and filing of financial records.
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
Reduction in outstanding receivables (Debtors Days)
Timeliness and accuracy of invoicing
Collection efficiency rate
Accuracy of account reconciliations
Reduction in bad debts and write-offs
Compliance with credit policies
Qualifications & Experience
Bachelor's degree or HND in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
Minimum of 1 - 3 years' experience in Accounts Receivable, Accounting, or a related finance role.
Professional certification (e.g., ATS, ICAN - in view, or equivalent) is an added advantage.
Key Requirements
Basic knowledge of accounting principles and financial reporting.
Familiarity with receivables processes, invoicing, and credit control.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting software.
Experience working in a manufacturing or distribution environment is an added advantage.
Strong numerical and analytical skills.
Skills & Competencies
Attention to detail and high level of accuracy
Strong organizational and time management skills
Good communication and interpersonal skills
Problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities
Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
Basic negotiation and customer handling skills
Personal Attributes
Honest and trustworthy
Result-oriented and proactive
High level of integrity and accountability
Ability to work under pressure
Good team player
Working Conditions
Office-based role with occasional interaction with warehouse and sales teams
May require extended hours during month-end or financial reporting periods
Job Specification (Ideal Candidate Profile)
The ideal Accounts Receivable Officer should:
Have a good understanding of customer billing and collections processes
Be able to effectively follow up on payments without damaging customer relationships
Demonstrate accuracy in financial record-keeping
Be comfortable working with sales teams and handling customer accounts
Have the ability to analyze aging reports and take proactive action on overdue accounts
Possess basic knowledge of credit risk management in a manufacturing/distribution setup