Consumers and businesses use credit to buy houses, cars, large domestic appliance, raw materials used for manufacturing and merchandise to be sold in shops. Credit managers have the final authority to accept or reject credit applications.
In extending credit to businesses, a credit manager analyzes detailed financial reports, interviews the representatives of the various companies, and reviews credit agency reports to determine the debt repayment records of such firms.
When extending credit to individuals, credit managers rely on personal interviews, credit bureaux and banks, together with trade reference checking.
In large organisations, credit managers may be responsible for establishing a credit policy. Many establish office procedure and supervize credit department employees. They may contact customers who do not repay their debts punctually and ultimately can refer such accounts to debt collection agencies or attorneys.
Satisfying Aspects
- having a responsible position, without having to obtain advanced qualifications
- working regular hours
Demanding aspects
- dealing with individuals or organizations who fail to pay their bills
- knowing decisions could cost the company a lot of money
- mental strain of dealing with figures all day
Requirements
A credit manager should:
- be persistent and persuasive;
- have good judgement;
- enjoy detailed work;
- work well with others;
- be able to communicate ideas well in both writing and speech;
- have a pleasant personality and appearance;
- enjoy working with calculations;
- have an aptitude for mathematics.
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate meeting degree requirements for a degree course
National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course
Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements.
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics
Recommended Subjects: Accounting, Business Science, Economics
Training
Degree: BCom Accounting / BAccounting - most universities. Courses in Credit Management are offered by UJ and UNISA.
A BTech in Credit Management is also offered by UNISA.
Diploma: N.Dip: Credit Management - UNISA
Employer
- various businesses
- banks and building societies
- finance houses
- departmental stores
- retail companies
Contact
Institute of Bankers
P O Box 61420
Marshalltown, 2107
Tel: (011) 481-7000 Fax: (011) 484-8712
e-Mail: iobinfo@iob.co.za
www.iob.co.za