Accounts Receivable Process Lead

The Accounts Receivable Process Lead is responsible for overseeing end-to-end accounts receivable operations, ensuring timely and maximized collections, reduction in aged debt, and continuous improvement in working capital. This role acts as the key liaison with the outsourced accounts receivable service provider, ensuring contractual obligations and service standards are met. The ideal candidate will champion process excellence, maintain strong internal controls, and build collaborative relationships with both internal stakeholders and the managed service provider. Key Responsibilities Service Provider Management

• Support internal and external audit processes as required.
• Communicate process changes or requirements clearly to both the team and the service provider.
• Conduct regular performance review meetings with the service provider.
• Promote safe and environmentally responsible practices within the team and vendor operations.
• Act as the daily point of contact for the service provider's team.
• Maintain records and documentation for audit purposes.
• Maintain up-to-date Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and process maps.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, procedures, and internal controls.
• Build and maintain effective working relationships with internal business units and the managed service provider.
• Respond to stakeholder queries in a timely and professional manner.
• Serve as the primary liaison between Downer and the outsourced accounts receivable service provider.
• Coordinate task allocations, schedules, and operational updates.
• Participate in governance meetings, representing the interface between the service provider and Downer.
• Assist in reviewing monthly charges for accuracy and investigate variances.
• Monitor key AR metrics to ensure targets and SLAs are consistently met.
• Monitor service levels against agreed SLAs and KPIs, reviewing and approving monthly service reports.
• Oversee the accurate and timely processing of collections and debtor accounts.
• Support Downer's health, wellbeing, and mental health initiatives, ensuring these are communicated and celebrated.
• Manage escalations and resolve service delivery issues promptly.
• Identify, recommend, and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

• Familiarity with JDE and Kofax is preferred; knowledge of Accounts Payable processes is a plus.
• Positive mindset with a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• High interpersonal skills with the ability to develop and maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Tertiary qualification in Finance or related discipline is preferred but not mandatory.
• Ability to build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and service providers.
• Attention to detail and adherence to processes to ensure high-quality work.
• Strong understanding of AR processes, cash application, collections, dispute resolution, and credit control.
• Proven experience in accounts receivable, credit management, or finance operations, ideally in shared services or BPO environments.
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel.
• Experience managing or collaborating with offshore service delivery teams or managed service providers.
• Strong planning, prioritization, and organizational skills to meet individual and team KPIs.
• Knowledge of process improvement, automation, and finance tools/platforms (e.g., ERP systems, collections platforms).