Debt Recovery Officer

About the Role

Hunter Douglas is a global leader in innovative window coverings and architectural products, recognised for quality, craftsmanship, and industry‑leading design. As part of our Finance team, the Debt Recovery Officer plays a key role in safeguarding business cash flow and reducing financial risk by managing the full debt recovery process in-house. You will oversee cases from early‑stage arrears through to litigation, enforcement, and final resolution. The role requires a balance of analytical thinking, sound judgement, and confident communication, particularly when managing sensitive or defended matters.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage a portfolio of overdue accounts through to recovery or closure.
• Carry out pre‑action communications and negotiate short‑term payment plans.
• Prepare, issue, and manage County Court claims.
• Handle defended claims, including drafting responses and preparing evidence.
• Conduct in‑house enforcement actions (e.g., warrants, charging orders).
• Assess case risks to determine appropriate enforcement or escalation.
• Maintain accurate case records and documentation.
• Produce internal reports on recovery performance and enforcement outcomes.
• Ensure compliance with data protection requirements.
• Engage with debtors professionally and empathetically to encourage repayment.
• Resolve disputes and collaborate with internal teams.
• Provide guidance on debt recovery processes and escalation routes.
• Ensure recovery actions comply with CPR, GDPR, and sector regulations.
• Apply fair and proportionate approaches, including for vulnerable customers.
• Escalate complex or high‑risk cases appropriately.

Key Skills and Experience

Essential

• Strong negotiation skills and the ability to manage difficult conversations confidently.
• High attention to detail, particularly when working with legal documentation.
• Excellent organisational skills with the ability to manage a high‑volume, varied caseload.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience using case management or CRM systems.

Desirable

• Experience within debt recovery, litigation support, credit control, or case management.
• Understanding of civil claims processes and enforcement routes.
• Experience handling defended claims or enforcement action.
• Knowledge of Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) or similar legal frameworks.
• Experience within finance, legal services, housing, utilities, or other regulated environments.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a globally recognised, innovative organisation with a strong heritage.
• Work in a collaborative Finance team that values your expertise and encourages continuous improvement.
• Opportunity to manage end‑to‑end recovery activity in‑house, developing your legal and case management skills.
• A culture that prioritises integrity, professionalism, and supporting each other to succeed.
• Competitive benefits package and opportunities for professional development.

You’ll receive many benefits, such as discounted gym memberships, generous staff discount (including family and friends!), healthcare and lifestyle benefits packages, and a fantastic working environment. We are an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all our colleagues. If you require any reasonable adjustments to be made for you to attend an interview, please let us know and we will be happy to accommodate.