Accounts Receivable Officer

Role & responsibilities

• Communicate constantly with shipping lines, principals, and clients regarding billing queries, handling dispute resolution and payment reminders.
• Build strong working relationships with key customers to support collection activities.
• Demonstrate strong English communication skills to handle customer interactions professionally and effectively.
• Make daily telephone calls to customers to follow up on outstanding balances and ensure timely collections in line with credit terms.
• Review supporting documents such as port call reports, vendor invoices, tariffs, and contracts to ensure billing accuracy.
• Monitor accounts receivable aging reports and follow up on overdue payments in a timely and effective manner.
• Reconcile customer accounts, investigate discrepancies, and ensure proper allocation of receipts.
• Maintain updated records of outstanding balances and payment commitments.
• Provide professional and timely responses to all receivable-related inquiries.
• Prepare weekly and monthly receivable reports for management review.
• Assist in forecasting cash inflows and identifying potential credit risks.
• Provide support during audits by ensuring accuracy and completeness of AR documentation.
• Ensure all invoicing and receivable processes comply with company policies, agency agreements and maritime industry regulations.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of financial data.
• Recommend improvements to streamline AR processes and enhance internal control.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Excellent English communication skills, both verbal and written
• Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Minimum 4-6 years of experience in Accounts Receivable, preferably within the shipping, logistics, or maritime industry.
• Solid understanding of port disbursements, agency agreements, and shipping operations (advantage).
• Proficiency in accounting software and MS Excel; experience with maritime ERP systems is a plus.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a high degree of accuracy.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and work under pressure to meet deadlines.

Key Competencies

• Strong numerical and reconciliation skills
• Excellent command of professional English communication
• Problem-solving and dispute resolution
• Time management and prioritization
• Professionalism and client-focused attitude
• Teamwork and collaboration