Job Description

William Smith 1832 Ltd has been established in Barnard Castle for over 190 years and is a leading manufacturer of signs and a key distributor of vinyl products throughout the UK.

We are looking for a proactive and detail-oriented Credit Controller to join our Finance team. Reporting to the Finance Manager, you will take ownership of managing the company's accounts receivable portfolio, reducing debt levels, and maintaining excellent customer relationships. This is a great opportunity to make a real impact in a growing business while working within a supportive and collaborative team.

What you will do

:

You will be responsible for, but not limited to, the following duties and responsibilities:

Credit risk management

: Assess and monitor the creditworthiness of new and existing customers through financial analysis, credit checks, and payment history reviews.

Debt collection

: Engage with customers to agree payment plans, negotiate terms, and resolve queries or disputes. Where necessary, escalate problem accounts and initiate proceedings to secure outstanding debts.

Customer relationships

: Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, ensuring excellent service and clear communication. Work collaboratively with internal teams to resolve billing issues and implement process improvements.

Sales ledger administration

: Manage daily invoicing, credit notes, and payment allocations. Reconcile customer accounts, produce month-end reports, and issue account statements. Proactively monitor accounts to ensure timely payments.

Reporting & documentation

: Maintain accurate records of customer interactions, transactions, and sales activities in the CRM system. Generate regular reports on Accounts Receivable balances.

About you

Essential:

We're looking for someone who is organised, confident, and commercially aware. You'll thrive in this role if you enjoy problem-solving, building strong relationships, and working with numbers.

Minimum of 2 years' experience in accounts receivable, credit control, or a similar finance role. Strong knowledge of accounting principles and credit risk management Proficiency with accounting software and MS Office (especially Excel) Excellent communication skills and professional telephone manner Ability to build rapport, resolve conflicts, and maintain a customer-focused approach Highly organised, self-motivated, and able to work both independently and as part of a team

Training & Support

Full training will be provided, this is a great opportunity for someone looking to build skills in a supportive, well-established company.

What we offer:

Competitive salary Pension Scheme Life Assurance 6 x Salary Free Parking Employee Assistance Programmes Training and career development Holiday Purchase Scheme Cycle to Work Scheme Techscheme and Employee Discount
If you are a motivated individual who thrives in a dynamic environment, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and any additional information detailing your relevant experience.

Location: Barnard Castle, County Durham

Job Type: Full-time

Hours: Mon-Fri, 40 hours per week (8am-5pm and 9am-6pm on a rota basis)

Salary: 28,000 to 30,000 per annum, depending on experience.

Office-based with the possibility of hybrid working after the initial training period.

Closing Date: 10/10/2025

To apply please send your CV to hr@williamsmith.co.uk

Please note:

Only applicants selected for interview will be contacted. If you do not hear from us, please assume your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.

Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: 28,000.00-30,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Company pension Cycle to work scheme Free parking Life insurance On-site parking
Ability to commute/relocate:

Barnard Castle DL12 8JQ: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)
Work authorisation:

United Kingdom (required)
Work Location: In person