Accounts Receivable Manager

Job Description The Accounts Receivable Controller plays a key role in the financial management of the School, ensuring the accurate and timely billing, reconciliation, and collection of all tuition, transport, financial aid, after-school, and extracurricular fees. The role manages billing and collection processes for over 900 families and partner organisations, ensuring data accuracy, financial compliance, and an exceptional level of customer service. /n This position supports approximately £50 million in annual tuition and related income and requires a detail-oriented, technology-savvy, and proactive professional capable of operating efficiently in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment. /n Key Responsibilities Billing and Data Management /n /n - Manage end-to-end billing for tuition, transportation, financial aid, after-school programs, and all ancillary charges for the School and its subsidiary. /n - Maintain accurate family and student billing records in the school’s finance and student information systems (Microsoft Dynamics Business Central). /n - Collaborate with Admissions, and departmental administrators and other internal stakeholders to ensure timely updates to student and fee data. /n - Generate, review, and distribute invoices within strict deadlines; ensure compliance with Accounting and VAT regulations as well as school policies and contractual obligations. /n - Monitor and reconcile data between finance, admissions, and student databases to ensure billing integrity. /n - Prepare and maintain accurate audit trails for all transactions. /n /n Collections and Customer Relations /n /n - Manage the collection of fees and ensure that payments are received in line with the School’s terms and conditions. /n - Communicate effectively and empathetically with parents, companies, and sponsors regarding outstanding balances. /n - Negotiate payment plans where appropriate, maintaining professionalism and discretion when dealing with sensitive personal circumstances. /n - Work collaboratively with the Finance Manager and Director of Finance & Operations to review overdue accounts and agree on next steps. /n /n Reconciliation and Reporting /n /n - Perform regular reconciliations between the fees ledger, bank accounts, and other sub-ledgers. /n - Analyse billing and cash flow trends; prepare reports for management, auditors, and the Board as required. /n - Produce insightful analytical reports on billing to assist in long-term financial planning. /n - Support external audits and provide all necessary documentation related to fees and revenue. /n /n Systems, Innovation, and Process Improvement /n /n - Utilise financial systems effectively; identify opportunities to improve automation, reporting accuracy, and user experience. /n - Contribute to digital transformation initiatives such as online payment platforms, automated invoicing, and data analytics tools. /n - Ensure compliance with relevant UK financial, consumer, and data protection legislation, including GDPR, Consumer Credit Act, and HMRC guidelines. /n - Maintain awareness of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) regulations and apply appropriate due diligence when processing and verifying payments from individuals and organisations. /n - Identify and escalate potential compliance or irregular payment concerns to the Director of Finance & Operations. /n - Develop and document best practices and standard operating procedures to ensure efficiency and consistency. /n /n Teamwork and Collaboration /n /n - Work closely with colleagues across Finance, Admissions, Operations, and Academic departments. /n - Provide support and training to other team members on billing processes and systems. /n - Contribute to a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and customer service. /n /n Qualifications and Experience /n Essential /n /n - A professional qualification in the accounting and finance field or equivalent. /n - Substantive experience in an accounting, billing, or accounts receivable role. /n - Proficiency with financial management systems (e.g. Business Central, iSAMS, Sage, or similar). /n - Advanced Excel and data reconciliation skills. /n - Strong understanding of financial controls and internal audit practices. /n - Awareness of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) principles and responsibilities. /n - Excellent interpersonal and cross-cultural communication skills. /n /n Desirable /n /n - Experience in the education sector, particularly within an international or independent school. /n - Familiarity with financial aid administration, bursaries, or corporate billing. /n - Experience managing large account portfolios (500+ customers). /n - Knowledge of UK accounting standards and charity finance compliance. /n /n Key Competencies and Attributes /n /n - Accuracy and Attention to Detail: Ensures precision and reliability across all financial processes. /n - Technological Proficiency: Experienced with finance software, databases, and advanced Excel functions. /n - Analytical Thinking: Able to interpret and reconcile complex financial data. /n - Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication, with diplomacy and cultural sensitivity. /n - Deadline Management: Works efficiently under pressure, meeting strict billing and reporting deadlines. /n - Compliance Awareness: Understands financial, AML, and data protection responsibilities. /n - Team Player: Collaborative, supportive, and approachable. /n - Initiative and Innovation: Continuously looks for ways to improve processes and customer experience. /n