Senior Collections Manager

Right People Right Job; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 60 000 - 100 000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking company specializing in debt management as a Senior Collections Manager. In this pivotal role, you will lead a dynamic team of debt collectors, driving strategies to enhance recovery rates and ensure compliance with South African laws. This position offers significant growth potential, with a clear path to a COO role. You'll engage with clients and stakeholders to build strong relationships while fostering a high-performance culture within your team. If you're ready to make an impact in a fast-paced environment focused on innovation and operational excellence, this opportunity is for you.

Benefits

Growth potential to COO

Dynamic work environment

Supportive team culture

Qualifications

• 5+ years in leadership roles within collections, preferably in call centers.
• Registered with the Debt Collectors Council.

Responsibilities

• Oversee collections strategy and optimize performance across portfolios.
• Lead and manage a team of 20-30 debt collectors.

Skills

Leadership

Performance Analysis

Negotiation Skills

Stakeholder Engagement

Analytical Thinking

Education

Matric (Grade 12)

Degree in Finance or Business Administration

Tools

Swordfish

Excalibur

CRM Systems

MS Excel

Job description

Our client, specialists in Debt book Management and collection of outstanding accounts, is seeking an experienced

Senior Collections Manager

with over 5 years of leadership experience to join their team. The successful candidate will oversee and optimize the collections function across multiple portfolios, managing a team of 20–30 debt collectors. This key role involves driving collections strategy, performance analysis, compliance, and operational improvements to maximize recovery and meet client SLAs. There is also potential for growth into a Chief Operating Officer (COO) role, with equity consideration.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Collections Strategy & Performance Optimization
2. Develop and implement strategies to improve recovery rates and reduce delinquency.
3. Analyze KPIs and adjust tactics to enhance portfolio performance.
4. Segment debtor profiles for tailored collection approaches.
5. Oversee forecasting and reporting cycles, including performance reviews.
6. Present monthly and quarterly reports on collection trends and financial insights.
7. Ensure payments, account closures, and reporting are accurate and timely.
8. Lead and manage a team of 20–30 collectors, team leaders, and supervisors.
9. Conduct reviews, coaching, and targeted training to improve performance.
10. Foster a high-performance, motivated team culture through effective leadership.
11. Ensure compliance with South African debt collection laws and company policies.
12. Manage adherence to AOD processes and SLA obligations.
13. Collaborate with legal teams to mitigate reputational and financial risks.

1. Stakeholder Engagement & Client Relationship Management
2. Serve as the main contact for clients and senior stakeholders.
3. Resolve escalations and provide performance feedback.
4. Build strong client relationships and support business growth initiatives.

6) Technology & Process Innovation

1. Utilize systems like Swordfish, Excalibur, CRM, and automation tools to enhance efficiency.
2. Ensure optimal system usage and data integrity.
3. Drive innovation through technology adoption, predictive analytics, and continuous improvement.

Minimum Requirements:

• Matric (Grade 12) required.
• Degree in Finance, Business Administration, or related field (preferred).
• Registered with the Debt Collectors Council.

Experience:

• At least 5 years in a leadership role within collections, preferably in a call center environment.
• Extensive experience managing large teams (20+ agents).
• Proven ability to liaise with executive stakeholders.
• Proficient in Swordfish, Excalibur, and advanced MS Excel.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret trends and data.

Behavioral Skills:

• Strong leadership, team management, and staff development skills.
• Excellent negotiation, conflict resolution, and interpersonal skills.
• High attention to detail and analytical thinking.
• Resilience, adaptability, and ability to work under pressure.
• Strategic mindset with a proactive, results-oriented approach, with potential for senior leadership growth.

Why Join Them?

Growth Potential: This role offers a direct path to a COO position, with equity considerations.

Dynamic Environment: Work in a fast-paced, evolving setting focused on operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Supportive Culture: Collaborate with a dedicated team that values development, accountability, and innovation.