Credit Collections Manager

This role leads the Credit and Collections function across the Americas, owning the end-to-end accounts receivable process and customer credit strategy. You will play a critical role in optimizing cash flow, managing credit risk, and enabling sustainable business growth. Partnering closely with Sales, Operations, and Finance, you will balance commercial objectives with disciplined financial controls while driving process improvements, including the adoption of automation and AI-driven solutions. Role Overview Lead and continuously improve the credit review and collections function across the Americas (USA, Canada, Mexico) Optimize working capital and cash flow while minimizing credit risk exposure Own accounts receivable and customer credit decisioning Partner cross-functionally with Sales, Operations, and Shared Services to support revenue and business growth Key Responsibilities Working Capital Management Monitor account balances and drive collections across all entities Investigate and resolve customer claims and deductions Forecast collections and prepare cash flow projections Identify payment trends and escalated risks Debtor & Bad Debt Management Ensure accounts operate within approved credit limits and terms Conduct ongoing credit reviews and evaluate new applications Manage potential bad debt accounts and recovery efforts Partner with Legal on escalated cases Month-End Close Reconcile cash receipts and resolve unallocated payments Ensure accurate and timely journal entries Prepare monthly AR reporting (DSO, aging, collections commentary) Ensure accuracy and consistency of financial data Provide timely account balance reporting Collaborate with Sales, Operations, and Customer Service Manage credit holds with minimal disruption Act as escalation point for complex disputes Leadership & Team Management Lead, coach, and develop Credit & Collections team Manage hiring, onboarding, and retention Establish performance goals and development plans Foster a collaborative, high-performance culture Audit & Compliance Support external audits and internal compliance reviews Prepare required documentation and schedules Decision-Making Authority Approve or deny credit applications and set credit limits Ensure timely collections across all entities Resolve customer claims and deductions Develop and improve credit policies, procedures, and controls Implement automation and AI tools where appropriate Manage team performance and structure Qualifications & Experience 7+ years of progressive credit and collections experience Experience in consumer goods, wholesale, or retail preferred Multi-entity and multi-currency experience strongly preferred ERP experience (D365 preferred) Exposure to AI/automation tools preferred Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Proven leadership and team management experience Proactive and process improvement mindset Excellent communication and influencing skills Strong stakeholder management abilities Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-changing environment #J-18808-Ljbffr Breville | Sage