Assistant Debt Control Officer

Job Title: Assistant Debt Control Officer

Reports To: Head Finance and Operations

Location: Lusaka, Zambia

Company: Aflife Properties Limited

Job Overview:

The primary objective of this role is to manage and facilitate the collection of rental debt efficiently and effectively, ensuring adherence to established policies and procedures while maintaining high levels of client service. Additionally, the Debt Control Officer will support accounting functions related to rental collections and contribute to financial reporting processes.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Rental Debt Collection: Implement strategies for timely collection of rental arrears, including but not limited to sending reminders, making follow-up calls, and negotiating payment agreements.

2. Accounting Support: Assist in month-end financial statement preparation, focusing on rental income and related accounts.

3. Reporting: Generate regular reports on rental debt status, aging analysis, and collection performance for management review.

4. Customer Account Management: Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of tenant accounts, including payment history and correspondence.

5. Query Resolution: Investigate and resolve tenant queries related to rental payments in a timely and professional manner.

6. Reconciliation: Reconcile rental income accounts at month-end and quarter-end, ensuring accuracy and completeness.

7. Risk Assessment: Identify and assess significant credit risks associated with tenants and recommend appropriate actions.

8. External Engagement: Liaise with external debt collectors when necessary to escalate collection efforts.

9. Audit Support: Assist in supporting financial statement audits by providing relevant documentation and information.

10. Ad Hoc Support: Provide assistance in other accounting processes and tasks as required by the Assistant Accountant – Receivables.

Qualifications:

Education: Degree in Accounting/Finance or Business related field. Professional certification such as ACCA, CIMA, or ZICA will be an added advantage.
Experience: At least 1-2 years of practical experience in accounting, with a focus on receivables or debt collection.
Training: Completion of ACA International Training or similar courses focused on debt collection techniques is preferred.
Skills: Proficiency in basic accounting tasks, data entry, and reconciliation. Strong negotiation and communication skills are essential.
Software: Competence in spreadsheet applications, particularly Microsoft Excel, and familiarity with accounting systems.
Customer Relations: Ability to maintain positive relationships with tenants while enforcing payment obligations.
Behavioral Attributes: Demonstrated integrity, honesty, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. Must be a confident team player with no criminal record.

Behaviors/Characteristics Required for the Job:

Proactivity: Ability to anticipate and address emerging issues in rental debt collection.
Integrity: Commitment to honesty and ethical conduct in all interactions.
Confidence: Self-assuredness in dealing with tenants and stakeholders.
Collaboration: Willingness to work cooperatively within a team environment.
Maturity: Professional demeanor and ability to handle sensitive situations with discretion.

Application Process:

Interested candidates should submit their resume and a cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience to jobs@aflife.co.zm. The closing date for applications is Thursday 14/08/2025.

Aflife Properties Limited is an equal opportunity employer. We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.