This progressive vision is accompanied by an effective credit management policy. Five of Shanks’ nine subsidiary companies have been using credit management software by OnGuard since 2007.
Since OnGuard was introduced, a project team consisting of André Meyer, Adil Kurçak, Peter Jan Bussink, Dennis Hermsen and IT Manager Berry van de Schans has been responsible for credit management at Shanks and the professionalization and optimisation of OnGuard credit management software.
In order to improve the engagement and knowledge of all credit management and debtor management staff, the fifth edition of Shanks’ debtor day was organised on 16 September. Chairman for the day, Bervin Janssen (VCMB chairman), was also present. He was quick to praise the organisation: ‘It’s a unique initiative which should be a source of inspiration for other companies. Coming together and actually discussing with one another improves the knowledge of employees and makes them aware of their own position within the company.’
The reactions from participants were also positive: ‘A day such as this underlines the importance of our position within the company. Not only the directors of Shanks and managers from subsidiary companies are represented, but also people who are involved with day-to-day debtor management.’
Adil Kurçak and Andre Meyer spoke with great passion about their work and their efforts to professionalise and focus on credit management. They were very positive about their contact with the account managers and consultants of OnGuard. Adil Kurçak: ‘There is a good relationship, which is partly the reason why our wishes have been translated into OnGuard software. An example of this is the unique link that has been realised between OnGuard and our existing complaint registration system. OnGuard has made it possible to implement an update twice a day. Thus our data is always up-to-date, which helps to effectively limit our risks. We are pleased because this enables us to keep our DSO stable in today’s precarious climate.’
André Meyer adds: ‘We continue to focus on implementing credit management and Onguard software in the most effective manner. In the meantime, we have also shared our enthusiasm for OnGuard solutions and services with Shanks’ international subsidiary companies – thus there are enough challenges for the future.’
