Call for Credit Controllers to further their education to better career prospects

Leading finance recruiters and professionals are advising Credit Controllers (across the North West) to continue their education and "stand out from the crowd," in a competitive industry.

"The Institute of Credit Management (ICM)'s qualification has gained increased recognition over the last few years and caught the attention of employers. The ICM unit awards and diplomas are nationally recognised and provide a benchmark for credit control. Subsequently, employers are now more frequently requesting fully qualified Credit Managers, i.e. candidates who have gained the ICM Level 5 Diploma - MICM (Grad)" said Ceinwen Walker, National Business Director of Hays Accounting and Finance Credit Control Division.

"This qualification sets candidates apart from the rest; vital in a recession when the number of applicants competing for positions is so high."

ICM Level 3 only provides an A-Level standard qualification however Level 5 which provides a Foundation Degree, level standard of qualification and Graduate (MICM Grad) ICM membership.

"Not proceeding after Level 3 could limit a candidate's career opportunities," said Ceinwen. "It could also make a potential employer question a candidate's motivation and ambition for career development."

ICM qualifications are recognised nationally and are held at learning centres across the UK. OLC Europe, a Greater Manchester College, is the only provider of ICM courses in the North West.

"The Level 5 qualification is highly respected in the industry as it provides students with a true understanding of the profession and focuses on areas of expertise within credit management such as Risk Assessment, Legal Proceedings and Insolvency," says OLC's ICM Course Leader, Gloria Bodell.

"We have students on our Level 5 course from a range of blue chip companies including Kellogg's, Hewden, ITV and PC World who are all furthering their education and therefore advancing their careers within these prestigious companies."

OLC Europe, who has been awarded Premier Education Centre status by the ICM, runs their Credit Management courses at the University of Salford. They offer a flexible course structure including home study.

"To provide an overview, an experienced credit control candidate who has gained the Level 3 diploma could expect to earn up to £25,000. Whereas, experienced and qualified Credit Managers with the Level 5 Diploma (MICM Grad) could earn £50,000 to £60, 000," said Ceinwen.

"To stop at Level 3 is ultimately putting a stop on your career in credit management."

OLC Europe has established a reputation for delivering and facilitating training courses throughout the UK and abroad.

"OLC's ICM students have consistently achieved well above the national average, four students this year alone have won the ICM National Award for Highest Achiever," said Gloria.

"Without a doubt, Level 3 provides a great overview into Credit Management, however, it's the Level 5 qualification that is more acknowledged and leads to career progression."