The accounts receivable (AR) function is being reshaped by technological advances in automation, machine learning and artificial intelligence. As the profession shifts away from purely transactional tasks toward more strategic ones, demand is increasing for AR professionals with technology proficiency, analytical capabilities and communication skills.

Below is a list of AR job titles and responsibilities, as well as reporting relationships and necessary skills and qualifications.

• Accounts Receivable Manager
• Accounts Receivable Specialist
• Accounts Receivable Clerk

Interested in exploring other functions within the finance organization? Many financial professionals widen their skill set by taking a career path that includes experiences in multiple finance functions. Explore more roles:

• Treasury Job Descriptions
• FP&A Job Descriptions
• Accounts Payable Job Descriptions

Read accounts receivable career stories.

• Career Profile: Michelle Murdock, Credit & Accounts Receivable Manager, Mitutoyo America Corporation
• Career Profile: Rich Shively, Credit Manager, Williams Distributing
• Career Profile: George Uko, Senior Territory Credit Manager, Kubota Tractor Corporation

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE MANAGER

Responsible for overseeing and managing the accounts receivable functions of a company. This includes supervising the billing and collections team, ensuring timely and accurate invoicing, monitoring customer payments and implementing effective credit control measures. Plays a crucial role in maintaining positive cash flow and minimizing bad debt for the organization.

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS AND ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Accounts Receivable Operations

• Oversee the end-to-end accounts receivable process, including invoicing, cash application and collections.
• Ensure accurate and timely processing of customer payments and resolution of discrepancies.
• Manage customer accounts, monitor aging reports and minimize overdue receivables.

Credit and Risk Management

• Assess creditworthiness of new and existing customers by analyzing financial data and credit reports.
• Establish and maintain credit limits and terms for customers in accordance with company policies.
• Monitor and manage credit risks to minimize bad debt exposure.

Collections and Customer Relations

• Implement effective collection strategies to reduce outstanding receivables and improve cash flow.
• Resolve escalated customer disputes and issues with professionalism and efficiency.
• Foster strong relationships with customers to ensure satisfaction and timely payment.

Compliance and Reporting

• Ensure compliance with internal controls, financial policies and relevant regulations.
• Prepare and present AR metrics, including DSO (days sales outstanding), collection rates and aging trends.
• Support audits by providing necessary documentation and responding to inquiries.

Process Improvement and Technology Utilization

• Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy in AR operations.
• Utilize AR automation tools and ERP systems to streamline workflows and enhance reporting capabilities.
• Stay informed of emerging technologies and best practices in accounts receivable management.
• Analyze trends, identify areas of improvement and present findings to management.

Team Leadership and Development

• Supervise, mentor and develop a team of accounts receivable professionals.
• Provide training and guidance to ensure adherence to policies and procedures.
• Foster a collaborative and results-oriented team environment.
• Keep the team updated on industry best practices and changes in regulations.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

POSITION REPORTS TO: Finance Manager, Controller, Director of Finance, CFO

POSITION(S) SUPERVISED: Accounts Receivable Specialists/Clerks, Credit Analysts, Collections Specialists, Cash Application Clerks, Billing Specialists, AR Supervisors/Team Leaders, Data Entry Clerks

ALTERNATIVE TITLE(S): N/A

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, Business or a related field, equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience may be considered in lieu of a degree
• Master’s degree preferred

RELEVANT CERTIFICATION

• CPA

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE

• Proficiency in experience with accounting software and Microsoft Excel
• Knowledge of credit risk assessment and collections strategies
• Strong understanding of AR principles, internal controls and compliance requirements

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Proven experience (5+ years) in accounts receivable management or a similar role
• Proven track record of driving process improvements and implementing AR best practices
• Hands-on experience with accounts receivable systems and ERP platforms

SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving and communication abilities
• Strong belief and practice in overcommunicating to keep teams on the same page
• Detail-oriented with a focus on accuracy and organization
• Excellent communication (oral and written) and interpersonal skills
• Exceptional problem-solving and analytical skills to address AR-related challenges
• Effective leadership and communication abilities, with a focus on teamwork and collaboration
• Ability to work collaboratively and adapt to changing priorities in an ambiguous and rapidly evolving environment

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE SPECIALIST

Responsible for maintaining and managing the daily accounts receivable function of the company function of the company. Primary duties include tracking and recording payments from customers, resolving discrepancies, ensuring the timely collection of outstanding invoices and maintaining accurate financial records. Collaborates closely with other departments, such as sales, finance and customer service, to streamline processes.

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS AND ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Invoicing and Billing

• Generate and distribute invoices accurately and on time, as well as reminder notices as necessary.
• Review customer agreements to ensure proper billing.
• Manage recurring billing schedules and update account information as required.

Payment Processing and Reconciliation

• Record and reconcile customer payments, including checks, ACH, wire transfers, and credit card transactions.
• Monitor and apply payments accurately against open invoices.
• Address and resolve discrepancies between payments and invoices.

Collections Management

• Implement collection strategies to minimize outstanding balances.
• Monitor accounts receivable aging and identify overdue accounts.
• Contact customers to follow up on outstanding balances and negotiate payment plans when necessary.
• Escalate unresolved accounts to management or legal teams as needed.

Reporting and Analysis

• Generate and maintain accounts receivable aging reports, payment status updates and collection progress.
• Provide regular updates to management on AR metrics and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Support month-end and year-end close processes by reconciling AR accounts.

Customer and Internal Relations

• Respond to customer inquiries regarding billing, payments, and account discrepancies.
• Collaborate with the sales and customer service teams to resolve disputes.
• Ensure customer satisfaction while enforcing payment terms and conditions.
• Build and maintain positive relationships with customers to facilitate prompt payment.

Compliance and Documentation

• Maintain accurate records of invoices, payments and communications.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, financial regulations and internal controls.
• Assist with audits by preparing documentation and responding to auditor inquiries.
• Analyze trends and identify opportunities for process improvement or risk mitigation.
• Stay updated on industry best practices and technological advancements to optimize AR processes.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

POSITION REPORTS TO: Finance Manager, or Controller, Accounts Receivable Manager, Accounting Manager

POSITION(S) SUPERVISED: None. However, depending on the company structure, Accounts Receivable Specialists may oversee the work of Accounts Receivable Clerks or Assistants.

ALTERNATIVE TITLE(S): N/A

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance or a related field (preferred)

RELEVANT CERTIFICATION

• Certified Accounts Receivable Manager (CARMTM)
• Certified Credit and Collection Manager (CCCM)

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE

• Strong understanding of accounting principles and practices
• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP) and MS Excel
• Familiarity with AR automation tools and customer relationship (CRM) software
• Knowledge of collection laws and regulations is a plus

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Proven experience (5+ years) in accounts receivable management or a similar role
• Proven track record of driving process improvements and implementing AR best practices
• Hands-on experience with accounts receivable systems and ERP platforms

SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective interaction with customers and internal stakeholders
• Attention to detail and accuracy in processing invoices and payments
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage workload efficiently and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE CLERK

Responsible for managing the company’s incoming payments by ensuring accurate and timely invoicing, monitoring customer accounts and processing payments. Critical in maintaining positive cash flow and strong customer relationships.

PRIMARY FUNCTIONS AND ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Invoicing and Billing

• Prepare and issue accurate customer invoices in a timely manner.
• Verify billing details, including prices, terms and account information.
• Manage recurring billing schedules and update customer records as needed.

Payment Processing

• Record and apply customer payments, including checks, ACH, wire transfers and credit cards.
• Monitor and reconcile daily payment batches with accounting records.
• Address and resolve payment discrepancies with customers.

Account Reconciliation

• Reconcile customer accounts and maintain accurate AR aging reports.
• Investigate and resolve discrepancies between payments and invoices.
• Collaborate with the accounting team to ensure accuracy in financial statements.

Collections and Customer Relations

• Monitor outstanding balances and follow up with customers on overdue accounts.
• Monitor and enforce credit policies and procedures.
• Contact customers to resolve billing disputes and negotiate payment plans if necessary.
• Maintain professional and positive relationships with customers.

Reporting and Documentation

• Generate AR reports, including aging schedules and collections status.
• Maintain organized records of invoices, payments and correspondence.
• Assist in preparing documentation for audits or compliance reviews.

Process Improvement

• Identify opportunities to enhance AR processes and workflows.
• Implement automation tools to improve efficiency and accuracy.
• Stay updated on best practices and new technologies in accounts receivable management.

Stay informed about changes in accounting regulations and best practices related to accounts receivable processes.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

POSITION REPORTS TO: Accounts Receivable Supervisor, Accounts Receivable Manager, Controller, Finance Manager/Director

POSITION(S) SUPERVISED: None

ALTERNATIVE TITLE(S): AR Associate

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Associate or bachelor’s degree in accounting or related field preferred

RELEVANT CERTIFICATION

• Certified Accounts Receivable Associate (CARA)

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE

• Knowledge of accounting principles and practices
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements related to accounts receivable processes

EXPERIENCE REQUIRED

• Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, SAP, Oracle) and Microsoft Excel
• Experience with process improvement initiatives is a plus
• Familiarity with AR automation tools and payment processing platforms

SKILLS & ABILITIES

• Ability to prioritize tasks, manage workload efficiently and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent organizational and time management skills
• Ability to prioritize tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team

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8/1/2025