Collections Officer

Job Purpose

The Collections Officer is a new, field-based role created to strengthen the company’s cash flow and reduce overdue receivables. The officer will manage an assigned portfolio of trade customers throughout Trinidad, visiting them to collect payments for goods delivered in keeping with agreed credit terms. The role follows up on outstanding and overdue invoices, agrees and monitors payment commitments, handles payments securely and keeps accurate collection records. The officer will work closely with the Sales and Accounts teams to resolve payment queries while maintaining positive, long-term customer relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage an assigned portfolio of customer accounts, including supermarkets, shops and distributors throughout Trinidad, and collect payments when due.
• Plan and follow an efficient weekly visit route, prioritising overdue, high-value and at-risk accounts.
• Follow up with customers in person, by phone and by email on outstanding invoices, agreed payment dates and payment commitments.
• Negotiate payment arrangements for overdue accounts within limits approved by the Credit / Accounts Manager.
• Check payments against invoices and statements, and issue official receipts for all payments received.
• Keep all payments (cash and cheques) secure, and deposit or hand them over on the same day or within the agreed timeframe, in accordance with company procedures.
• Follow company cash-handling, documentation and personal safety procedures at all times.
• Update payment records, customer visit notes and commitments to pay in the company’s accounting or collections system daily.
• Keep an accurate mileage and trip log to support travel and fuel claims.
• Submit weekly collection reports, receipts and supporting documents, including an update on overdue accounts.
• Work with the Sales and Accounts teams to confirm customer balances and resolve disputes, short payments and invoice queries.
• Report persistently overdue accounts, disputes and collection difficulties promptly, with recommended next steps (for example, credit hold or revised terms).
• Share customer feedback and market information that may affect credit risk or sales.
• Maintain professional relationships with customers and handle all customer and company information confidentially.
• Carry out other related duties as required.

Qualifications and Experience

• A minimum of five CSEC subjects, including English Language and Mathematics. CSEC Principles of Accounts or an accounting certificate would be an asset.
• A minimum of two years’ experience in collections, accounts receivable, credit control or route sales, preferably in distribution, manufacturing or FMCG.
• Experience handling payments and visiting trade customers.
• Sound understanding of invoices, receipts, statements and credit terms.
• Computer skills, including Microsoft Word and Excel; experience with an accounting system (for example, QuickBooks or Sage) would be an asset.
• A valid driver’s permit and ownership of a reliable vehicle, with insurance that covers business use.
• Good knowledge of Trinidad’s road network and willingness to travel throughout Trinidad.
• A clean Police Certificate of Character.

REF: J.C