Senior Credit and Collections Associate

As a Senior Credit and Collections Associate at iT1, your responsibilities will include processing credit applications, conducting detailed credit investigations, managing a large accounts receivable portfolio, and performing collection calls on overdue accounts. Additionally, you will analyze customer financial data to establish payment terms and credit limits, and work closely with various internal teams to resolve discrepancies and enhance operational efficacy.

To excel as a Senior Credit and Collections Associate at iT1, candidates should have a minimum of 3 years of relevant Accounts Receivable experience and 3 years in credit and B2B collections. A degree in Accounting (AA or BS/BA preferred) is highly advantageous, alongside proficiency in accounting software such as Sage Intacct and Salesforce. Strong analytical and organizational skills are also crucial for this role.

Key skills for a Senior Credit and Collections Associate at iT1 include advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office and Excel, strong attention to detail, excellent verbal and written communication abilities, and the capability to build effective working relationships with customers and the sales team. Additionally, a solid understanding of accounting processes and the ability to negotiate and resolve issues is essential.

The work environment for a Senior Credit and Collections Associate at iT1 is dynamic and collaborative, reflected in our recognition as one of the best places to work in Arizona. Employees can expect a supportive team culture, opportunities for professional growth, and a focus on process improvement while balancing independent work with teamwork.

iT1 provides a comprehensive benefits package for Senior Credit and Collections Associates, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, flexible spending accounts, a 401K plan with company matching, and life insurance options. Additionally, employees enjoy an in-house fitness center and a workplace culture that prioritizes well-being and job satisfaction.

When answering this question, articulate your past experiences in conducting credit checks and analyses. Highlight specific methods you used to assess creditworthiness, such as analyzing financial statements or leveraging credit reports. Provide an example of a challenging investigation and how your efforts led to effective credit decisions.

To effectively manage multiple accounts, discuss your organization and time management strategies. You might mention using software tools for tracking interactions, setting reminders for follow-ups, and categorizing accounts based on urgency. Describe a systematic approach that ensures no account slips through the cracks, emphasizing your commitment to reducing overdue accounts.

When negotiating during collection calls, focus on building rapport and understanding the customer's situation. Share techniques such as active listening, empathizing with their challenges, and clearly communicating payment options. Provide an example of a successful negotiation that resulted in a positive outcome for both the client and the company.

Discuss your methodical approach to adhering to credit policies, including regular training, documentation, and updates regarding changes in guidelines. You might also mention how you collaborate with your team and the importance of clarity when managing customer credit accounts.

Use this opportunity to demonstrate your analytical and problem-solving skills. Provide a specific example, describe the steps you took to investigate the discrepancy, how you communicated the issue with involved parties, and what the outcome was to underline your capacity to navigate conflicts successfully.

Emphasize the value of teamwork in the credit and collections process, highlighting how collaboration with sales and operations teams can enhance customer experience and streamline processes. Share an example where teamwork led to overcoming a challenging situation.

In answering this, showcase your organizational tools and techniques, such as utilizing spreadsheets, CRM systems, or task management software. Illustrate how you've developed strategies to maintain focus and productivity even when facing tight deadlines and increased workloads.

Discuss your level of expertise with Sage Intacct and other relevant tools. Share specific tasks you've accomplished using the software, such as managing accounts receivable or producing reports, and describe how your skills with such tools enhance efficiency and accuracy in your work.

Highlight your communication skills and emotional intelligence in navigating tough conversations. Discuss techniques like maintaining a calm tone, being empathetic while asserting the importance of payment, and striving for mutually agreeable solutions.

Share personal motivations such as the satisfaction of maintaining the company's financial health, the challenge of problem-solving, and the opportunity to develop strong customer relationships. Relate this to your career goals and align it with iT1's values.