Accounts Receivable Manager

Job Description

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced Accounts Receivable Manager to join a wholesale distribution and manufacturing organization in Birmingham, Alabama in a contract capacity with the potential for a permanent role. This opportunity is designed for a hands-on leader who can quickly take ownership of receivables activity, strengthen team performance, and improve cash collections during a pivotal period. The role offers strong visibility across finance and operations while supporting healthier cash flow and more consistent billing practices.

Responsibilities:

• Direct daily receivables activity, including invoicing, payment posting, cash application, and commercial collections, to maintain accurate and timely processing.

• Guide and support AR staff by setting clear expectations, monitoring output, and fostering accountability across the team.

• Lead efforts to reduce overdue balances and shorten collection cycles through focused follow-up and disciplined account management.

• Work closely with sales, customer service, and operations teams to resolve billing questions, shipment-related invoice issues, and customer disputes.

• Evaluate customer credit exposure, recommend appropriate credit limits, and help refine credit practices to manage risk effectively.

• Ensure invoices are issued correctly and on schedule in alignment with customer agreements, order activity, and fulfillment milestones.

• Track receivables performance by preparing reporting on aging trends, collection results, and near-term cash flow expectations.

• Identify opportunities to improve controls, streamline workflows, and enhance the overall efficiency of AR processes.

• Support effective use and optimization of ERP and related systems that connect receivables activity with operational workflows.

• Provide documentation and assistance for audits, compliance reviews, and other finance-related requests as needed.

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related discipline.
• At least 7 years of progressive accounts receivable experience, including prior leadership or management responsibility.
• Background working in a manufacturing, industrial, or similarly complex operating environment.
• Strong knowledge of the full order-to-cash process, including billing tied to shipping activity and deductions handling.
• Demonstrated success improving collections performance and lowering aged receivables balances.
• Experience using ERP platforms such as SAP, Oracle, NetSuite, or comparable systems.
• Advanced Excel skills with the ability to analyze data, identify trends, and support decision-making.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional stakeholders.