Credit Risk & Debtors Controller

About the role

A client of ARVO is looking for a commercially minded Credit Risk & Debtors Controller to own its debtors, credit risk and international collections processes. The role brings structure, control and proactive risk management to the local and international customer portfolio, working with marketers, insurers, finance teams and external stakeholders. It is not purely administrative: the holder plays a key part in commercial decision-making and risk mitigation. The position is based in Paarl, in an office or hybrid setting, and is permanent and full-time.

Key responsibilities

• Manage and monitor customer credit limits, including seasonal requirements and utilisation, and work with marketers to plan credit exposure
• Build relationships with credit insurers and external risk partners, and explore alternatives such as shared exposure within group structures
• Strengthen debt collection processes and controls, monitor debtor ageing and manage overdue accounts
• Distinguish between normal collections, bad debt and quality control claims, and drive collections strategy and follow-up
• Oversee onboarding and pre-screening of new clients, ensure contracts and documentation are complete, and evaluate customer risk profiles across international regions
• Research international banking regulations, liquidity constraints and payment risks, identify high-risk regions and develop knowledge of international trade payment environments such as the Middle East
• Analyse clearing agents, group structures and counterparty relationships, and support risk mitigation and process improvements

Required profile

• Relevant qualification in Finance, Accounting, Commerce, Law, Risk Management or a related field
• Previous experience in debtors, credit control, credit risk, collections, trade finance or a similar role
• Strong understanding of debtor management and credit risk principles
• Experience with international clients, export environments or cross-border payments is highly advantageous
• Ideal candidate is commercially aware, assertive and proactive, able to handle difficult conversations and work in a fast-paced environment

Required skills

• Strong analytical, negotiation and problem-solving skills
• Confident communication with internal stakeholders and external partners
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail
• A combination of legal, accounting and commercial knowledge is highly advantageous