Divisional Credit Operations Manager

PG Bison a proudly South African world-class manufacturer of wood-based decorative panels and associated products is seeking an experienced Divisional Credit Operations Manager to join our dynamic Credit Operations team.

To manage and optimise the divisional credit operations function by leading Regional Credit Managers driving collections performance improving ageing profiles and ensuring disciplined credit execution. The role focuses on operational effectiveness cash flow improvement and consistent reporting to support financial oversight and decision-making.

1. Credit Operations & Risk Control

• Implement and enforce credit policies procedures and approval frameworks
• Approve credit limits and escalated credit decisions within mandate

Monitor customer exposures and proactively manage credit risk

• Ensure adherence to internal controls audit and governance standards

1. Leadership & Regional Oversight

• Lead and manage Regional Credit Managers across all regions
• Drive consistency in credit processes and collections execution
• Set clear targets and monitor performance against KPIs
• Develop capability and succession within the credit team

1. Collections & Performance Management

• Drive improvements in:
• Days Sales Outstanding (DSO)
• Overdue debt
• Cash collections
• Ensure timely follow-up and resolution of outstanding accounts
• Lead interventions on high-risk and overdue accounts
• Partner with regions to resolve complex debtor issues

1. Efficiency & Process Improvement

• Identify and implement process improvements across the credit lifecycle
• Streamline workflows and reduce manual processes
• Improve turnaround times for credit approvals and collections
• Strengthen tracking and accountability for outstanding items

1. Reporting & Microsoft Tools

• Oversee accurate and timely reporting using:
• Microsoft Excel (advanced)
• Microsoft Teams and SharePoint
• Provide regular reporting to the Divisional Finance Manager including:
• Ageing analysis
• DSO performance
• Overdue trends
• Key risk exposures
• Bad debt and provisions
• Ensure data accuracy consistency and visibility across regions

1. Financial & Working Capital Management

• Drive improvements in working capital through effective collections
• Monitor and manage bad debt provisions
• Support budgeting and forecasting processes
• Identify and escalate financial risks

1. Stakeholder Engagement

• Partner with Sales and Operations to balance growth with credit control
• Drive accountability for collections across business units
• Escalate key issues and risks to the Divisional Finance Manager
• Engage with auditors and external stakeholders as required

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• DSO improvement
• Reduction in overdue and aged debt
• Collection targets achieved
• Bad debt levels within acceptable thresholds
• Process efficiency improvements
• Reporting accuracy and timeliness
• Compliance with credit policies

• Degree in Finance Accounting or related field
• 810 years experience in credit management
• 35 years experience managing teams (including managers)
• Strong experience in collections ageing management and credit operations
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills
• Strong leadership and people management ability
• Results-driven with a focus on cash and delivery
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Commercial and business acumen
• Effective communication and stakeholder management
• High accountability and attention to detail