Freelancer in finance: the experiences of Sisi Engelbosch

Did you know that iCredit does not only place consultants on its payroll, they also hire freelancers in finance? We link them purposefully with the right projects. One of them is Sisi Engelbosch. She has been self-employed for some time now, has successfully completed many assignments and today focuses on a client from the energy sector. With great passion, she talks about her experiences as a freelancer and her collaboration with iCredit. An inspiring interview!

You also specialize in credit management. Where does that passion come from?

“That’s right, I now have 25 years of experience in credit management, of which 10 years as a freelancer in finance. What I like about accounts receivable is that it is one of the most measurable departments in finance. You know perfectly how many customers there are, how many invoices have been sent, how many payments are still outstanding… I like a challenge myself and I strive to keep the number of unpaid invoices as low as possible. I also enjoy the social contact that comes with credit management. You not only communicate with colleagues, but also with partner companies, end customers and stakeholders.”

Today you mainly support companies as an interim manager. What gives you the most energy in that role?

“I find it interesting to look for the weak links in a project and to optimize the processes. I like to compare it to a train with rusted wheels, completely entangled in the weeds. First you need to prune hard and lubricate the wheels. You then lay the tracks again where necessary, with the correct foundation. Then you set all business processes in motion step by step and the train starts to move. As soon as he picks up speed and all the problems are gone, it’s time for me to take on another project.”

“I am a true problem solver and I enjoy challenges. People management is also very important to me. I want to give positive feedback and never put employees down, but rather point out points for improvement so that they can learn and grow.”

Were you immediately interested?

“Absolutely! I had already done projects in the energy sector and they are always very exciting companies. Their environment is changing rapidly and the employees are always central. I listened to the wishes of the customer and was able to present the right experience. That is how I started at Eneco, in the name of iCredit. There I focus on the implementation of credit insurance for B2B customers.”

How is the collaboration with iCredit going so far?

“The feeling I always had was confirmed: it is very pleasant to work with iCredit. They monitor the project closely, regularly check how I am doing and organize fun afterworks. Moreover, iCredit complies with all agreements very correctly, which is certainly not unimportant as a freelancer in finance.”

“From the correspondence, over the contracts, to the payments… The partnership with iCredit runs like clockwork. It is nice to work with a party that inspires a lot of confidence and that is also worth it.”

So many words of praise! What are the main benefits of working as a freelancer for you?

“As a self-employed person, you are in control. You choose which sector you want to work in, who you want to work with and which distance you want to cover. For example, I have determined a radius for myself, although I am flexible. Today, hybrid working is well established and you no longer have to be in the office for a full week, so that distance plays less of a role. In addition, you develop a broad network. You meet a lot of people, and it is also essential that they get to know you. As a freelancer you are your own calling card. All the more reason to do a good job, so that companies want to work together.”

Are there also disadvantages?

“I see only one drawback: no project means no income. Fortunately, I have never experienced that as an insurmountable risk. The demand for experts in credit management is high, especially in the current climate, which means that my assignments always follow each other nicely.”

What is your most important tip for people who are hesitating to start as a freelancer in finance? How can iCredit help them?

“Let yourself be assisted by a good accountant. There are regular changes in the field of taxation and the right support is crucial. In addition, I would like to advise starting freelancers to clearly state their wishes at the start of a project. For example, indicate what the minimum duration is for you, because that can vary greatly. If you communicate this openly and honestly, clients and consultancy firms will certainly listen.”

“Take a parachute and jump. If you really want to work as a freelancer, just do it. Passion is contagious: people feel when you put your heart and soul into your job, and that leads to success. It will not always run smoothly, but with a positive mindset you make the difference.”

How can iCredit help them take the plunge?

“iCredit really wants to put the right person in the right place, both in terms of job content and character. After all, they want you to be happy in your workplace so that you can perform optimally. So be sure to have a conversation, define your field and indicate what you attach importance to and what energizes you. When iCredit knows you well, they will bet on your strengths and certainly find the right project.”

Which assignments do you want to take on yourself in the future?

“I am happy to take on any assignment related to credit management, in the broad sense of the word. I prefer to manage a team as a manager, but I also want to take on some operational tasks myself. I am very flexible in this. So bring it on!”

Were you inspired by Sisi’s story and are you considering starting as a freelancer in finance? Or are you a seasoned self-employed person interested in a new project? iCredit listens to your ambitions and is happy to offer the right support.