AR Collection Specialist at Maersk

Maersk is seeking a dedicated Accounts Receivable (AR) Collection Specialist to join our team in Port Harcourt - Onne Port, Nigeria. In this role, you will play a key part in managing accounts receivable processes, ensuring timely payments, and maintaining strong relationships with clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and collect outstanding accounts receivable from clients to ensure timely payments and address issues related to overdue accounts.
• Assist walk-in customers with inquiries related to their account statements and disputed invoices.
• Visit customers to address challenges and ensure alignment with credit management policies.
• Act as a liaison between operations and finance teams to facilitate smooth communication and collaboration.
• Monitor and follow up on aging outstanding accounts to minimize the impact on the country’s GP and EBIT performance.
• Enhance customer satisfaction by delivering positive experiences in finance-related processes.

Core Duties

• Contact customers to remind them of overdue payments and arrange suitable payment plans.
• Negotiate payment arrangements and settlements in compliance with company guidelines.
• Maintain accurate records of all communications and transactions.
• Investigate and resolve discrepancies in customer accounts.
• Provide exceptional customer service and build positive relationships with clients.
• Manage cash flow and produce necessary management reports.
• Ensure the debt profile aligns with agreed credit terms.
• Develop and execute a customer visitation plan.
• Follow up on overdue caution deposits and escalate issues promptly.
• Clear accounts in a timely manner and provide weekly updates on monthly turnover.
• Collaborate closely with the Global Service Center (GSC) and drive cross-functional communication.
• Ensure processes are automated, efficient, and well-controlled.
• Adhere to and enforce credit policies.
• Process credit application requests promptly and maintain the credit limit list.
• Maintain and validate credit control procedures to ensure compliance.
• Prepare accounts for litigation and engage cost-effective legal assistance when necessary.
• Raise awareness of the cost of capital on overdue accounts.
• Monitor and achieve agreed Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).

Qualifications and Skills

• A college degree in business, accounting, or a related field.
• Minimum of two years of experience in general accounting and collections.
• Strong understanding of accounting principles, cash transactions, and financial concepts.
• Proficiency in using financial database software for data entry and analysis.
• Excellent attention to detail and strong numerical and mathematical skills.
• Organized with the ability to maintain accurate records and files.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
• Strong organizational and planning skills to manage workflow efficiently.
• Ability to handle confidential and sensitive information with integrity.
• Excellent interpersonal skills for effective communication with internal and external stakeholders.
• A collaborative team player with a proactive approach.
• Knowledge of the shipping industry is preferred.
• Experience working in a multinational organization is an advantage.