Commercial Collections Specialist

Collection Specialist

We are a thriving logistics company seeking a highly skilled and motivated Collection Specialist to join our team. As a leader in our industry, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional customer service and effective collections management. This position offers an exciting opportunity for professional growth, as the successful candidate will have the potential to transition into a Collection Supervisor/Lead role. We rely heavily on the expertise and dedication of our collector, as they are the sole point of contact for collections. Therefore, finding the right candidate is crucial to our success. If you possess strong leadership potential, excellent Excel skills, and have a background in accounts receivable and logistics, we encourage you to apply.

Responsibilities:

1. Collections Management: Manage the collections process for a $20 million portfolio, consisting of approximately 400 accounts. Ensure timely collection of outstanding balances by maintaining regular contact with customers through a mix of email and phone calls.
2. Customer Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, understanding their specific needs and addressing any concerns or issues related to outstanding invoices.
3. A/R Team Management: Oversee the onboarding and management of an additional collector and a cash applications person. Provide guidance and support, ensuring they adhere to best practices and company policies.
4. Reporting and Analysis: Prepare and present weekly updates on accounts receivable, including aging summaries and reports. Utilize Excel skills to extract data from systems such as Cargowise, MS Dynamics AX, and other relevant software. Perform VLOOKUPs and utilize pivot tables to analyze collection data.
5. System Enhancements: Collaborate with internal teams to identify opportunities for process improvements and automation. Assist in the development and implementation of a professional collections module within Cargowise to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
6. Collaboration and Communication: Work closely with various internal stakeholders, including finance, sales, and operations teams, to address customer disputes, resolve invoicing issues, and provide regular updates on collections activities.
7. Industry Knowledge: Stay updated on industry trends, regulations, and best practices related to collections within the logistics sector. Leverage this knowledge to enhance collections strategies and improve overall performance.

Requirements:

1. Experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in accounts receivable and collections, preferably within the logistics industry. Familiarity with handling a portfolio of similar size and complexity is highly desirable.
2. Leadership Potential: Demonstrated ability to take ownership of responsibilities, work independently, and make informed decisions. Proven potential to grow into a Collection Supervisor/Lead role in the future.
3. Excel Proficiency: Strong Excel skills, including VLOOKUPs, pivot tables, and data manipulation, are essential for data analysis and reporting.
4. Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to build rapport with customers and effectively resolve payment disputes.
5. Attention to Detail: Meticulousness and accuracy in maintaining records, tracking collection efforts, and managing customer accounts.
6. Problem-Solving Abilities: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills to identify and resolve complex payment issues and customer disputes.
7. Systems Proficiency: Experience with collections modules within enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems such as Cargowise and MS Dynamics AX is preferred.
8. Education: Associate degree in Accounting or a related field is acceptable, although industry experience and relevant skills will be prioritized.

We offer a competitive salary package, a collaborative work environment, and opportunities for career growth. Join our dedicated team in Chicago and make a significant impact on our collections process while advancing your professional development. Apply now to become an integral part of our success story.