Collections Manager
London, ENG, GB
Inspired Education is the leading global group of premium schools, with a portfolio of 121 premium private schools in 28 countries spanning 6 continents which utilise proven educational practices from every corner of the globe, ensuring over 95,000 students receive a world-class learning experience from Kindergarten to Year 13.
Founded in 2013 by Nadim M. Nsouli, Inspired is backed by investors such as Stonepeak, GIC, TA Associates, and the Oppenheimer and Mansour family offices. The Group is experiencing 20% per annum growth through acquisition, greenfield site expansion, and the development of existing schools within its portfolio. In 2023, Inspired was recognised by Beauhurst as one of the UK's top 10 highest-value private companies.
ROLE SUMMARY:
The Northern Europe region has a central finance function which covers multiple countries. As the team expands, we are looking to recruit an ambitious Collections Manger (North Europe) who are looking to work in an ambitious company whilst progressing their career. The role holder will be responsible for leading the credit control function.
Reporting to the Head of Accounts Receivable (AR) Northern Europe, you will be responsible for the delivery of billing, grounded in the principles of customer service excellence and the values of the company. The successful candidate will bring innovative thinking and a collaborative leadership style to advise the Head of Accounts Receivable and motivate and empower the Accounts Receivable team, resulting in enhanced billing and customer service.
The Collections Manager responsibilities include collection of contract and non-contract invoices. Managing and working with the rest of the Accounts Receivable Team to collect cash and minimise overdue by proactive collection protocols and strong query management processes. Working with the cash and treasury department to ensure all receipts are allocated promptly. Assist with the training of new employees in the Accounts Receivable Department.
This is an on-site role, with a 4 day office 1 day working from home split.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Provide day-to-day leadership for the Credit Control team, setting clear priorities, expectations, and performance goals.
- Foster a collaborative, accountable, and supportive team environment that drives accuracy, ownership, and continuous improvement.
- Manage aged debt, reduce overdue receivables, and drive improved cash flow through structured collection strategies.
- Managing Direct Debit process with the rest of the AR team.
- Act as the primary point of contact for key debtor accounts and complex escalations.
- Foster strong internal relationships with Admissions, Billing, Banking teams to streamline dispute resolution.
- Work closely with external partners such as legal advisors, collection agencies, or vendors when required.
- Implement best practices, automation tools, and new technologies where applicable.
- Prepare and present AR month end reports, and KPIs to senior leadership.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:
- 5-10 years’ experience in a fast-paced credit control environment bring structure and clarity to the priorities to the team with clear targets and objectives.
- Demonstrable experience in a leading a small team.
- JDE Experience (essential) otherwise strong financial system experience, where workflow approvals were used
- Fully proficient in Excel, Word and Outlook
- Great attention to detail.
- Works well under pressure with clear vision.
- Strong understanding of the role billing and AR play in the customer experience, journey and the impact of incorrect invoices has on Inspired Reputation essential.
- Outstanding interpersonal skills with an ability to lead and motivate a team of staff and build effective and trusting relationships and professional networks in the wider community
- Strong data analysis and interpretation skills
- A self-starter with the drive, determination and commitment to getting things done
- Organised - able to plan and prioritise
- A good team player, flexible, able to adapt and be pro-active with a positive attitude, enthusiastic and self-motivated
- Sector experience preferred, but not essential
SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT
Inspired Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.
Visit our careers site for more information; https://jobs.inspirededu.com