Job Title : Credit and Collections Manager
Location : Kansas City, MO or DeKalb, Illinois (hybrid)
This role is responsible for overseeing the evaluation of customer creditworthiness, establishing credit terms, managing accounts receivable performance, and ensuring timely collections - all while partnering closely with Sales and Operations to enable growth with minimal risk.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop, implement, and enforce credit and collections policies and procedures that align with business goals and risk tolerance.
- Analyze credit applications, customer financials, and payment trends to establish or adjust credit limits and terms.
- Manage the full accounts receivable cycle, including aging analysis, collection strategies, and dispute resolution.
- Lead and mentor the accounts receivable team; provide direction, training, and performance management.
- Monitor and report on key credit metrics, including DSO, bad debt exposure, and collection efficiency.
- Partner with Sales, Project Management, and Legal teams to manage delinquent accounts while preserving customer relationships.
- Oversee third-party collections or legal processes when necessary.
- Support audit processes related to receivables and reserves.
- Continuously improve systems, processes, and controls to enhance cash flow and reduce credit risk.
Qualifications
Education :
Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or related field.Preferred : Credit certification (e.g., NACM, CCE)Experience :
Minimum 5-7 years of experience in credit and collections, preferably within the manufacturing sector.Proven experience managing a team and driving measurable improvement in cash collections.Experience working with diverse customer portfolios (distributors, B2B, national retailers).Experience with International customers.Technical Skills :
Proficiency in D365 ERP systems.Strong Excel and reporting skills; experience with BI tools a plus.Familiarity with credit risk assessment tools and collection workflows.Soft Skills
Strong leadership and negotiation abilitiesExcellent written and verbal communication skillsHigh attention to detail and analytical mindsetAbility to work cross-functionally and manage competing prioritiesExcellent time management and organizational skills