Our client currently has an opening for an experienced and proactive Accounts Receivable and Cash Flow Manager within a fast-growing company. This forward-thinking individual will bring their experience, skills and knowledge to manage and report real-time data on a large number of construction projects, enhance company level cash flow management, maximise revenue as well as contribute to process improvements. The role is imperative to the smooth running and continuing growth of the business.
This is a unique and exciting opportunity to be part of a tight-knit and supportive team while making impact and adding value to a growing business. In terms of career progression, this role is likely to develop over time to meet the increasing growth demands of the business and industry.
The individual will work within the small but fast-paced Finance Team, reporting to the Finance Manager (and Operations Director). You will work closely with Accounts Payable and all members of the team (including the Senior Team, Contracts Manager, Quantity Surveyor). The role will also involve contact with clients, their Finance teams, Quantity Surveyors, Commercial Managers, as well as our external Accountant, and our on-site sub-contractors.
Responsibilities of the job
Accounts Receivable
- Responsible for ensuring the weekly cash needs (outgoings) are met (wages/salaries, bills and suppliers, sub-contractors, direct debits, overheads and reinvestment initiatives)
- Increasing revenue - generate ideas for and implement strategies to increase revenue (and decrease costs) in order to maintain financial growth and stability
- Invoice lifecycle
- Communication and reporting
Cash flow management
- Track the cash that flows into the company against the cash that flows out, and it's timing
- Implement strategies to improve and maintain positive and reliable cash flow, ensuring optimal liquidity levels, in order to secure financial health and daily operational viability
- Identify ways to mitigate the critical nature of construction cash flow management due to long-term nature of projects with significant upfront costs and staggered income
- Build a safety net through a cash reserve to avoid liquidity issues
- Ensure timely payments from clients and ascertain any deductions that will affect weekly revenue
- Forecasting cash flow (payment due dates, payment schedules) while assessing risks
- Leverage different contract types to enhance cash flow
- Provide information for strategic decision-making for future project planning and investment.
- Communication and reporting
Process development
- Harnessing the power of current systems and leveraging technology to tap into useful tools for invoicing, cash flow management, budgeting, and forecasting
- Assess current processes for their efficiency, identify and implement improvements
- Self-learning to optimise use of project management and accounting software tools
- General office tasks/administration
- Answering phones in a prompt, friendly but professional manner
- Responding fast via online messaging system (Microsoft Teams)
- Daily procurement - assisting the team where necessary with orders of materials (e.g. concrete, etc) and waste disposal (muck away), plant hire & off-hire, and obtaining supplier quotes for materials required on site (e.g. manhole rings, etc). Raising Purchase Orders
- Logging new job enquiries
- Arranging payment of parking for sub-contractors/colleagues attending meetings, where necessary
Person specification
- Self-starter who is able to hit the ground running with minimal assistance and training
- Energetic, self-motivated, and pro-active individual who can work independently with little instruction and using own initiative
- Assertive, persistent, and shows tenacity in securing payments on time, to meet weekly budget
- Able to influence clients for the benefit of the company, while maintaining self-awareness to maintain client relationship
- Excellent record-keeper who understands the importance of real-time financial data and reporting
- Excellent problem solver, takes ownership of challenges and exercises perseverance and patience
- Works fast under pressure and remains calm and stoic
- Practical and efficient individual who is highly organised
- Keen to identify and develop efficiencies and improvements in current processes, as well as harnesses the power of technology
- Forward thinking, revenue focused attitude, striving for company savings and increased revenue to support business growth
- Demonstrates trustworthiness and maintains confidentiality (due to access to sensitive information)
- Flexible, adaptable, and helpful to support ever changing priorities within the team in a fast-paced office. A team player who is receptive to the needs of colleagues around them
- Has a confident but friendly, professional manner
Experience
- At least three years experience managing accounts receivable and cash flow
- Proven success in improving cash flow, ideally in a Construction setting
- Good experience in using accounting software Xero and in using a construction online project management system
- Extensive experience using Microsoft Word and Excel
- Experience in implementing/developing/improving new systems and/or processes
Skills / Qualifications
- Excellent level of understanding of accounting principles
- Proficient with Microsoft Excel and Word
- Possesses attention to detail and a high level of accuracy
- Excellent prioritisation, multi-tasking, time management and planning skills
- Methodical, organised and efficient approach to duties
- Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal