Accounts Receivable Manager

As an Accounts Receivable Manager at MANN+HUMMEL, your main responsibilities include overseeing a team of AR professionals, managing the customer onboarding and invoicing processes, and ensuring proper cash application. You will also be tasked with monitoring A/R aging reports, managing credit limits, and facilitating communication within the team and across departments.

To qualify for the Accounts Receivable Manager position at MANN+HUMMEL, candidates should possess a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or equivalent work experience. Additionally, a minimum of seven years in Accounts Receivable with team management experience is essential, along with excellent Excel skills and strong communication abilities.

Essential skills for success in the Accounts Receivable Manager role at MANN+HUMMEL include exceptional Excel capabilities, strong leadership and team management skills, excellent organizational abilities, and attention to detail. Familiarity with ERP systems like SAP or Sage is a plus, but not mandatory.

The Accounts Receivable Manager contributes to MANN+HUMMEL's success by optimizing cash flow through effective management of customer invoicing, collections, and credit control processes. By ensuring accurate reporting and fostering collaboration among departments, the AR Manager plays a critical role in achieving the company's financial objectives.

A typical day for an Accounts Receivable Manager at MANN+HUMMEL involves overseeing the AR team’s daily activities, streamlining invoicing and payment processes, analyzing A/R aging reports, meeting with other departments to facilitate clear communication, and participating in audit preparations, while supporting team members in their daily objectives.

When prioritizing tasks as an Accounts Receivable Manager, assess deadlines and the impact on cash flow. Focus on high-priority invoices and overdue accounts first, while ensuring your team remains aligned on shared goals. Utilize a task management system to help keep track of progress efficiently.

In my previous roles, I've utilized various ERP systems to drive efficiency in accounts receivable processes. While I primarily worked with [insert ERP system], I am adaptable and quick to learn new systems such as SAP or Sage, ensuring that I can effectively leverage the technology to improve workflow and reporting.

Handling disputes requires a calm and diligent approach. I start by thoroughly reviewing the details of each dispute, communicating directly with the customer to understand their perspective, and collaborating with internal teams to gather necessary information. This proactive communication often leads to a swift resolution and helps maintain strong customer relationships.

Effective cash application involves matching payments to open invoices accurately and promptly. I emphasize attention to detail, using tools such as automated systems to streamline the process while also ensuring that remittance information is clearly communicated and reconciled.

I believe recognizing individual and team accomplishments builds motivation. I set clear, achievable goals and celebrate when those milestones are reached. Regular one-on-one check-ins also provide opportunities for open discussions on challenges and growth paths, increasing engagement and morale.

To ensure proper credit control, I establish clear credit policies and regularly review customer credit limits based on their payment history. Monitoring A/R aging reports helps highlight accounts that may require closer scrutiny, allowing me to make informed decisions about extending credit.

I utilize key metrics such as Days Sales Outstanding (DSO), the percentage of overdue accounts, and cash collection rates to assess our accounts receivable processes. Regularly reviewing these metrics helps identify areas for improvement and ensure that we're optimizing cash flow effectively.

One challenging situation involved a major client's persistent delays in payment. I set up a meeting with them to understand the root cause, and we developed a revised payment schedule together. This not only resolved the immediate issue but also strengthened our long-term relationship.

I stay informed about accounting standards and regulations through continuous professional development. I ensure that my team receives training when necessary and implement internal checks and balances to maintain compliance in our financial reporting and practices.

Communication is vital because it builds relationships with both internal and external stakeholders. Clear communication ensures that everyone is aligned on expectations, which minimizes misunderstandings and leads to quicker resolutions of invoicing issues and improved customer satisfaction.