Collections Manager

ExpressCredit is a global consumer finance company operating in Zambia and three surrounding countries, including Namibia, Botswana, and Lesotho.

We operate a multi-channel lending platform for private and government sector employees underserved by mainstream financiers. As a good corporate citizen, our goal is to help people in need of short-term and long-term financial assistance – all of which make a meaningful and lasting impact on the local communities. Express Credit is a game-changer and one of the fastest microlenders in the country. A combination of new technologies, mobile sales, and a network of branches and direct sales positions us well for growth and building a sizeable, well-performing loan portfolio. We are looking for a suitably qualified, competent, and highly motivated professional based in Lusaka to fill the position of Collections Manager.

Summary Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the collections team, providing guidance, mentorship, and training to ensure high performance.
• Oversee and streamline collection operations, ensuring efficient execution of departmental tasks.
• Evaluate team performance and make recommendations in line with departmental standards.
• Establish key performance indicators (KPIs) and regularly assess and report on departmental performance.
• Ensure efficient allocation of resources within the collection team to maximize effectiveness.
• Develop and implement collection strategies aligned with business objectives.
• Identify and drive process improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness in collections.
• Optimize collection processes by monitoring performance and adjusting procedures for better resource utilization.
• Generate and update performance reports, providing strategic insights to support decision-making for management committees
• Effectively monitor and maintain accurate loan and age analysis files and ensure accurate loan classification as provided for in the company credit policy
• Support and provide guidance to the back-office team in the preparation, submission, and tracking of expected collection files, ensuring timely invoicing, receipt, and reconciliation of collected amounts in alignment with financial processes.
• Escalate unpaid loans to the legal or field team for the next collection stages, in accordance with the credit policy.
• Work closely with other departments (finance, legal, and risk) to align collection strategies with broader company objectives.
• Manage and adhere to the internal service level agreements.
• Stay updated on industry regulations and best practices, ensuring the company remains compliant with evolving requirements.

Experience and Requirement

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, Accounts, business or equivalent
• 5 years of demonstrated experience in a similar role and in related field preferably in a Micro Finance institution
• Credit management training will be an added advantage
• Demonstrated strong data analysis skills and Investigative skills.
• Demonstrated collection and debt recovery skills
• Demonstrated leadership covering the work experience period
• Strong understanding of credit analysis and policies
• Good understanding of Risk management principles
• Problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
• Exceptional analytical skills and a good eye for detail.
• Ability to cope under pressure and Stress management skills.
• Good planning and organization skills
• Good communication and presentation skills
• Holder of a valid driving license