Job Description

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Legal and Collections Manager to take a lead role in managing the recovery of outstanding commercial debt. You will be responsible for handling high-value and aged accounts, overseeing the full lifecycle of debt recovery--from pre-legal collections through to litigation--and representing the company in County Court proceedings. This is a key position within the business, ensuring robust debt recovery processes and minimising financial risk from unpaid commercial accounts.

Key Responsibilities

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Debt Recovery & Negotiation

? Proactively manage and chase outstanding commercial debt in line with internal policies and credit control procedures.

? Negotiate payment plans, settlements, and dispute resolutions directly with customers or their legal representatives.

? Identify and escalate high-risk accounts or repeat offenders.

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Legal Proceedings & Case Management

? Initiate and manage court proceedings against non-paying commercial customers.

? Prepare legal documentation including Letters Before Action (LBAs), Claim Forms, Witness Statements, and Costs Schedules.

? Oversee the progression of cases through the civil court system, including Small Claims, Fast Track, and Multi-Track as appropriate.

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Court Representation

? Act as an advocate for the company in County Court hearings, including preliminary hearings, case management conferences, and trials where permitted under the Lay Representative rules.

? Liaise with external solicitors or counsel as needed for complex or high-value matters.

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Stakeholder Reporting & Compliance

? Maintain accurate records of debt recovery actions and outcomes using internal systems.

? Provide regular reports and updates to senior management on litigation status, recovery rates, and case outcomes.

? Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, including the Civil Procedure Rules, Data Protection legislation, and industry regulations.

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Process Improvement & Risk Management

? Recommend improvements to internal debt recovery processes and legal strategies. ? Work closely with commercial and finance teams to identify root causes of debt and reduce future credit risk.

Skills & Experience Required

? Proven experience in commercial debt recovery and litigation, preferably within the utility or energy sector.

? Strong working knowledge of the Civil Procedure Rules and experience handling County Court claims.

? Confident in drafting legal documents and managing files through to enforcement where necessary.

? Excellent negotiation and communication skills with the ability to manage difficult conversations.

? Experience in court advocacy is strongly preferred (e.g. Lay Representative under Practice Direction 27A).

? Strong organisational and case management skills, with attention to detail.

? Proficient in Microsoft Office and case management or collections systems (e.g., SAP, Experian, or similar).

? Legal qualification (e.g. LPC, CILEX, or equivalent) is desirable but not essential. What We Offer

? Competitive salary based on experience

? Performance-related bonus

? Pension scheme

? Career development opportunities

Join us in helping to drive financial responsibility, reduce risk, and protect the integrity of our operations.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 30,000.00-45,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Free parking On-site parking
Work Location: In person