Credit and Collections Manager

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 abilities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• High attention to detail and analytical mindset
• Ability to work cross-functionally and manage competing priorities
• Excellent time management and organizational skills