Collections Specialist

About the role

Responsible for reviewing aged accounts receivable, analyzing account history, and determining the proper collection approach to ensure timely collection. Contacts clients, updates the collections system with call details, creates reports on problematic accounts for upper management, and works with clients and/or attorneys to resolve disputes or misunderstandings. Collaborates closely with billers to address billing questions while maintaining confidentiality of client and firm matters.

Responsibilities

• Proactively and professionally interact with firm clients and billing attorneys to facilitate timely payment of invoices and identify challenges to timely payment.
• Review aged accounts receivable, analyze account history, and determine the proper collection approach.
• Contact clients directly via telephone, email, and formal letters in accordance with the firm's collection policies and procedures.
• Enter and maintain accurate, complete, and up-to-date information summarizing all collection-related activities in the firm's collection software; schedule and maintain follow-ups.
• Research and resolve, or initiate the resolution process for, problematic, disputed, and/or past-due invoices.
• Provide information to firm attorneys regarding the status of their clients' accounts receivable.
• Monitor payment arrangements to ensure compliance with payment terms.
• Promptly respond to inquiries from clients, attorneys, and staff while maintaining a high level of tact and professionalism.
• Prepare reports and analysis on the status of collection matters; provide regular updates to management.
• Recommend write-offs and/or placement with outside collection agencies or law firms when collection efforts have been exhausted.
• Assist with the backup of Cash Receipts and their responsibilities on an occasional basis.
• Assist the Director of Receivables as required.

Requirements

• A minimum of 3 to 5 years of related financial experience in a professional services organization; law firm experience preferred.
• Working knowledge of credit practices and strong working knowledge of collection techniques.
• Proficiency in MS Office; strong knowledge of Excel preferred.
• Excellent organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills, with the ability to work with all levels of personnel within the firm.
• Strong writing skills.
• Ability to effectively handle telephone calls with tact, diplomacy, and professionalism.
• Highly self-motivated, self-directed, and attentive to detail.
• Ability to multi-task and work in a team environment as well as independently.
• Ability to effectively prioritize and execute tasks in a high-pressure environment.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills.
• Ability to foster an atmosphere of support, teamwork, and effective collaboration.

Working Conditions

• Normal office environment with little exposure to excessive noise, dust, temperature, and the like.
• Work occasionally requires more than 37.5 hours per week to perform the essential duties of the position.