At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the B2B Credit function, driving cash generation and managing risk.
- Company: Join Sysco, the world's largest foodservice distributor with a global presence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, company car allowance, generous holiday, and private healthcare.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with opportunities for career growth and development.
- Why this job: Shape strategy and influence decisions in a high-profile leadership role.
- Qualifications: Extensive B2B credit management experience and professional qualification required.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 88000 £ per year.
Sysco is the world's largest foodservice distributor, operating at global scale with multi-billion-dollar revenues and serving customers across numerous international markets. We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Head of Credit Management to lead our end-to-end B2B Credit function, driving cash generation, managing risk, protecting the balance sheet, and supporting sustainable business growth.
This is a high-profile leadership role requiring a proven Credit professional who has operated within £billion+ turnover organisations with >20,000 customers. Reporting into the Finance Director, you will lead a team structure comprising 3 direct reports and an overall Credit organisation of approximately 70 colleagues, ensuring the delivery of best-in-class credit, collections and risk management practices across the business, business partnering with sales teams and customers on a daily basis.
This role is offering a hybrid working contract with up to 3 days per week in the Ashford (Kent) office, and occasional business travel; as such, a good degree of self-motivation and flexibility is required.
The successful candidate will be accountable for developing and executing the organisation's Credit Management strategy, ensuring a balanced approach to customer growth, risk management and working capital optimisation. They will bring extensive experience in B2B credit management, collections, customer risk assessment and debt performance improvement, alongside the credibility and influence to work effectively with senior stakeholders across Finance, Commercial and Legal functions. They will provide strategic guidance on customer risk, payment terms and cash flow performance, while building strong partnerships that support both commercial growth and effective risk control.
A strong track record in leadership, stakeholder management and organisational development is essential, together with the ability to build, coach and motivate high-performing teams. You will have significant expertise in credit risk management, financial analysis and regulatory compliance, with the ability to interpret complex financial information and translate it into sound commercial decisions. Experience of credit management systems such as High Radius is preferable and also ERP systems such as SAP, Microsoft Dynamics, together with advanced analytical skills and a data-driven approach to reporting, forecasting and decision-making. Experience leveraging technology, automation and process improvement initiatives within a Credit environment will be highly advantageous.
Applicants must hold a professional qualification, ideally a qualified accountant or CICM qualification. This is an outstanding opportunity for an experienced leader to shape strategy, influence senior decision-making and lead a sizeable, high-performing team within one of the world's largest and most successful organisations.
What we offer:
- A competitive salary
- Company car or car allowance of £8,000 per annum
- Pension scheme
- Family private medical healthcare cover
- Generous holiday allowance of 25 days, with option to purchase additional holidays + bank holidays
- Huge discounts on all sorts of lovely food and award-winning products through our staff shop
- Discounts on Cinema tickets, shopping and earn cashback on purchases.
- Recognition awards and Incentives
- Real career opportunities - being part of Sysco, the world’s leading foodservice business, opens up a world of possibility
Head of Credit Management in Ashford employer: Sysco GB
As a Team Manager in the Credit Management department, you will thrive in a dynamic work environment that prioritises employee development and collaboration. With a competitive salary, generous holiday allowance, and extensive career progression opportunities within Sysco, the world’s leading foodservice business, you will be part of a culture that values accountability and continuous improvement. Enjoy unique benefits such as discounts on food products and cinema tickets, all while contributing to the financial health of the company through effective credit management practices.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Credit Management in Ashford
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
✨Connect on Professional Platforms
Join finance-focused groups on platforms like LinkedIn and engage in discussions. This can really help you stand out from the crowd, allowing potential employers to see your knowledge and interest in industry trends. Plus, you might stumble upon job postings shared exclusively within the group.
✨Apply Directly and Be Proactive
Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Sysco GB. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Credit Management in Ashford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Sysco GB.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Sysco GB's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sysco GB
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Sysco GB.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Sysco GB will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Sysco GB employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
