Accounts Receivable & Collections Specialist

Overview

We are seeking a highly organized and detail-oriented Collections Specialist to join our dynamic team.  The ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills and the ability to work independently to manage delinquent accounts and ensure the timely collection of outstanding payments. You will play a critical role in maintaining healthy client relationships while effectively managing past due accounts.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage Daily Collections: Prioritize and execute daily collections tasks, including monitoring past due accounts, maintaining collection notes, and ensuring appropriate follow-up actions.
• Account Management: Send timely communications to clients regarding overdue accounts, and manage the placement of delinquent accounts with external collection agencies when necessary.
• Collaboration with Agencies: Act as a liaison between the company and collection agencies, coordinating efforts and reconciling accounts to resolve outstanding balances.
• Payment Plans: Establish and manage payment plans for clients, ensuring compliance with agreed terms.
• Client Relationship Management: Communicate with the management team to identify slow-paying customers, and proactively engage with clients to strengthen and maintain positive relationships.
• Risk Mitigation: Identify "at risk" accounts early and initiate the appropriate action before they progress into the formal collections process.

Daily and Monthly Duties

• Collections Outreach: Contact delinquent accounts by phone, email, or written correspondence to resolve outstanding balances, while maintaining a professional and firm approach.
• Account Reconciliation: Ensure accounts receivable records are accurate and up-to-date, and regularly review aging reports to monitor outstanding balances.
• Cash Management Support: Provide backup for daily cash management tasks, including recording bank deposits, ACH payments, and credit card payments, and accurately posting transactions to the accounts receivable sub-ledger.
• Cross-Department Collaboration: Work closely with the Billing Coordinators and Service Department to resolve issues and ensure smooth account management.

Requirements

 Skills and Qualifications

• Experience: Minimum of 2 to 5 years of relevant experience in collections or a similar role.
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education or certifications in accounting/finance a plus.
• Financial Knowledge: Solid understanding of basic accounting, finance principles, and bookkeeping practices.
• Technical Proficiency: Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) and Google Drive.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to handle sensitive conversations professionally and diplomatically.
• Time Management: Exceptional organizational and time management skills with great attention to detail.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze accounts, identify issues, and apply appropriate solutions.