Specialist | Finance Operations - Collection | WPP SSC MY

Why we're hiring:

JOB PURPOSE : 

The Collection Specialist is responsible for managing and collecting outstanding accounts receivable from clients. This role involves communicating with customers to resolve payment issues, negotiating payment plans, and ensuring timely payments while maintaining positive client relationships. Leading up any escalation issue and resolving disputes with cross function team and stakeholders. 

What you'll be doing:

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES : 

• Monitor accounts receivable aging reports and follow up on overdue accounts.
• Contact customers via phone, email, or written correspondence to secure payment.
• Investigate and resolve payment delays, billing disputes, and account discrepancies.
• Analyse customer payment history and assess potential credit risks. 
• Prepare reports on collection status, cash flow forecasts, and delinquency trends. 
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to address account issues. 
• Recommend accounts for escalation, payment plans, or write-offs as needed. 
• Ensure compliance with internal credit policies, legal requirements, and regulatory standards. 
• Point of escalation. 
• Support process improvement initiatives to increase collection efficiency. 
• Maintain accurate documentation of collection activities and customer interactions. 
• Maintain accurate records of collection activities and customer interactions 
• Update account status and document all communications in the system 
• Collaborate with internal departments (e.g., billing, sales, customer service) to resolve issues 
• Ensure compliance with company policies and legal regulations related to debt collection 
• Prepare reports on collection status and aging accounts and month end closing. 

What you'll need:

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS : 

• Bachelor’s degree in finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field. 
• Proven experience in collections, accounts receivable, or credit control. 
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. 
• Excellent communication and negotiation abilities. 
• Proficiency in MS Excel and financial systems (SAP, Oracle, or similar). 
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines. 

PREFERRED ATTRIBUTES : 

• Attention to detail with a high level of accuracy.
• Strong interpersonal skills to manage customer relationships professionally. 
• Results-driven mindset with focus on reducing past due percentage. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE : 

• Diploma or Degree in Finance & Accounting or a related field with a relevant mix of qualifications and experience 
• 3-5 years of relevant experience in a shared service environment  
• Attention to Detail- Ability to maintain a high level of accuracy in preparing and entering information into the AR System 
• Ability to handle high-volume tasks and able to adapt the complex work environment 
• Time management and Organization skills 
• Able to communicate and work within a team environment 
• Basic knowledge of fundamental accounting concepts, practices, and procedures 
• Having shared service centre experience is preferred 
• Knowledge of SOX Compliance norms relating to the process 
• Experience in using ERP systems is an added advantage 
• Excel skills mandatory 
• Familiar with Office 365 

COMPETENCIES SKILLS : 

• Fluent in written and spoken English 
• Strong interpersonal & Customer service skills 
• Teamwork - Able to communicate and work within a team environment 
• Proactive – Time management, Business Acumen, and Manage Customer Expectation 
• Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills 

Who you are: