Head of Credit.

Due to the increasing global portfolio of projects, an experienced Head of Credit is sought to align with and support future business growth aspirations in driving a best in class credit function.

With significant experience in client Credit Risk due-diligence methodology, credit control management, together with a track record of utilising and embracing technological advances in a global professional services organisation.

This role exists to define and deliver the Group Credit Policy ensuring that commercially astute cash collection becomes a standard practice across Buro Happold.

This is a hybrid role, combining office and home working. You’ll be expected to be in the office at least days per week.

Type of contract

Permanent

Grade

Associate Director

Area of Expertise

Business Services

Region

UK

Office / Project Location

Bath, London

Ref No

Head of Credit

What will success look like for this role

• Strategic direction of the Credit Risk and Credit Control Teams, acting as an escalation point for all credit matters in supporting the Credit, Finance and wider technical teams.
• Update, define and deliver an effective Group Credit Strategy that determines appropriate methods to expedite cash collection around the globe.
• Contribute to developing a culture of excellence throughout the Practice on the entire Accounts Receivable cycle, including contractual terms, invoicing and cash collection.
• Continue to develop internal credit risk methodology and client on-boarding process to mitigate the risk of delinquent debtors.
• Ensure security & credit initiatives are in place to minimise cash risk in regions with significant revenue, such as the Middle East (KSA).
• Seek out global risk mitigation tools to prevent potential loss events.
• Collaborate effectively with the wider Global Finance team and departmental heads.
• Build rapport with senior project personnel and Partners regarding cash collection and debt.
• Coach and lead the credit function to evolve continually.
• Identify process improvements and bring best practices from prior roles.

Responsibilities

• Oversee global cash inflow, working with the Credit Control Manager to drive collections.
• Collaborate with Finance Heads to meet cash collection targets.
• Implement invoicing forecasts and drive accurate cash forecast reporting.
• Deliver on DSO targets and KPIs.
• Prepare annual financial targets for DSO, invoicing, and collections.
• Work closely with the Middle East finance team to support receivables.
• Drive knowledge sharing via internal platforms.
• Build and develop the credit function to ensure organizational suitability.
• Benchmark internally and against peer organizations to improve processes.
• Ensure the global Dunning Automation platform is integrated smoothly.
• Manage team performance, including training and objective setting.
• Coordinate with the Commercial and Legal Teams on debt-related issues requiring pre-legal intervention.
• Ensure compliance with global sanctions policies.
• Own the credit risk function and report to the Global Credit and Commercial Executive committee.
• Engage with auditors annually and oversee global debtors.
• Conduct client visits with Partners to support payments.

Skills & Qualifications

• Member of the Chartered Institute of Credit Management or equivalent preferred.
• Experience in a global company, preferably with Middle East operations.
• Effective communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong influencing skills and stakeholder management.
• Attention to detail and accuracy.
• Proven leadership in credit control teams achieving targets.
• Ability to build relationships across all levels globally.
• Excellent organizational skills and workload management.
• Intermediate Excel skills (VLookups, PivotTables).
• Ability to present analytical data effectively.
• Knowledge of credit control systems and technology.
• Strong understanding of credit analysis processes.
• Experience in professional services or construction industry is advantageous.

Styles & Behaviour

• Leadership and coaching skills with a passion for team development.
• Growth mindset focused on continuous improvement.
• Vision to achieve excellence in credit control.
• Influence major stakeholders with gravitas.
• Experience in process review and enhancement.
• Ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Decisiveness and corrective action when needed.
• Commitment to ongoing learning and skill development.
• Aim to drive a “best in class” credit function and stay ahead of technological trends.

Buro Happold values flexible working and diversity. We encourage applications from underrepresented groups and are committed to supporting all candidates through the application process. Please inform us of any adjustments needed to facilitate your application.