Job Mission: As a Credit Controller at L'Oréal, your mission is to manage the accounts receivable ledger and optimize the "Order-to-Cash" process. You will be responsible for ensuring timely collections from our customers (retailers, salons, or pharmacies), minimizing financial risk, and supporting the business's growth by providing expert financial insights to the sales and commercial teams. You act as a bridge between finance and business, ensuring that beauty reaches our consumers through a healthy and sustainable financial ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Credit Risk Management & Assessment

• Evaluate the creditworthiness of new and existing customers using financial statements, credit reports, and payment history.
• Establish and review credit limits in accordance with L'Oréal’s global credit policies.
• Monitor customer risk profiles and proactively identify potential bad debts or financial instability.

2. Collection & Accounts Receivable Oversight

• Manage the collection of outstanding debts via phone, email, and regular meetings, ensuring targets for Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) are met.
• Analyze aging reports to prioritize collection efforts and identify delinquent accounts.
• Reconcile complex customer accounts and ensure all payments are accurately allocated.

3. Dispute Management & Resolution

• Collaborate closely with Customer Service, Sales, and Supply Chain teams to resolve disputes related to pricing, returns, or logistical errors.
• Investigate and clear deductions or "chargebacks" claimed by retailers.
• Act as a mediator to maintain positive commercial relationships while ensuring the firm's financial interests are protected.

4. Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare and present monthly reports on DSO, aging balance, and collection performance to the Finance Director.
• Provide cash flow forecasts based on expected collection patterns.
• Participate in month-end closing activities, including the calculation of provisions for doubtful debts.

5. Process Improvement & Digitalization

• Contribute to the optimization of credit management tools and ERP systems (e.g., SAP).
• Propose and implement innovative ways to automate manual processes and improve the efficiency of the credit department.

Professional Profile & Competencies:

• Analytical Mindset: You have a high affinity for numbers and the ability to interpret complex financial data to make sound decisions.
• Negotiation & Communication: You are a firm but diplomatic communicator who can navigate difficult conversations with customers while maintaining a "business partner" mindset with internal sales teams.
• Resilience: You thrive in a fast-paced environment and can manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong command of Excel is essential. Experience with SAP or specialized credit management software is a significant advantage.
• Education: A degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.