Summary:

The Accounts Receivable Collection Associate is responsible for managing and collecting outstanding invoices from customers, ensuring timely payments, and maintaining strong customer relationships. This role plays a critical part in the company's cash flow management and financial health. The ideal candidate will be highly organized, detail-oriented, possess excellent communication and negotiation skills, and be proficient in using accounting software.

Key Responsibilities:

• Proactively contact customers (via phone, email, and mail) regarding overdue accounts to secure payment.
• Negotiate payment plans and resolve billing discrepancies in a professional and timely manner.
• Maintain detailed and accurate records of all collection activities, communications, and payment arrangements.
• Follow up consistently on outstanding payments according to established procedures.
• Identify and escalate complex collection issues to the Accounts Receivable Manager when necessary.
• Investigate and resolve payment discrepancies, short payments, and unauthorized deductions.
• Work collaboratively with sales, customer service, and other departments to resolve customer disputes and ensure accurate invoicing.
• Process customer credit card payments and apply payments accurately to customer accounts.
• Assist with month-end closing activities related to accounts receivable.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with customers to facilitate collections and improve future payment compliance.
• Provide excellent customer service while upholding company collection policies.
• Prepare and analyze aging reports to identify delinquent accounts and prioritize collection efforts.
• Generate various accounts receivable reports as required by management.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of collection processes and procedures.
• Adhere to all company policies and procedures related to credit and collections.
• Ensure compliance with relevant legal and regulatory requirements concerning collections.

Qualifications:

• Education:
  • Post-secondary education in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• Experience:
  • 1-3 years of experience in accounts receivable, collections, or a similar financial role.
  • Experience working with an ERP system (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite) or dedicated accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, Sage) is an asset.
• Skills:
  • Proven track record of successful collections.
  • Strong negotiation and persuasive communication skills, both written and verbal.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport and handle difficult conversations professionally.
  • High level of accuracy and attention to detail.
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel (for data analysis and reporting).
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
  • Strong problem-solving and analytical abilities.
  • Knowledge of basic accounting principles.
  • Fluency in English is required; proficiency in French is an asset.