Accounts Receivable Lead

Job Description

The Accounts Receivable (AR) Lead is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the accounts receivable team, ensuring accurate and timely processing of invoices, collections, and payment applications. This role involves managing relationships with clients, resolving payment discrepancies, and leading process improvements in AR operations. The AR Lead will also collaborate with other departments, provide financial reports, and ensure compliance with company policies and relevant accounting standards. Role & responsibilities 1. Accounts Receivable Management: Oversee the end-to-end accounts receivable process, including invoicing, collections, cash applications, and account reconciliations. Ensuring necessary open items management in SAP Monitor AR aging reports and take necessary actions to reduce overdue balances. 2. Leadership and Team Management: Lead and mentor the AR team, providing guidance, training, and performance feedback. Delegate tasks effectively and ensure workload is balanced across the team. Support the professional development of team members and ensure adherence to department goals. 3. Client Relationship Management: Serve as the main point of contact for escalated payment disputes and queries from clients. Foster strong relationships with customers to facilitate collections and resolve disputes. Negotiate payment terms and settlement agreements as necessary. 4. Reporting and Analysis: Prepare regular AR reports for management, including aging reports, cash flow forecasts, and collection performance analysis. Analyse trends in receivables, and provide insights and recommendations for process improvements. Assist in month-end and year-end closing procedures, ensuring AR data is accurate and up-to-date. 5. Process Improvement and Compliance: Identify opportunities for improving AR processes and implement automation or optimization initiatives to enhance efficiency. Ensure compliance with internal controls, company policies, and applicable accounting standards. Collaborate with the finance and accounting teams to streamline workflows and improve reporting accuracy. Preferred candidate profile Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field. MBA/CMA/CA or other relevant certifications is a plus. Minimum 5-7 years of experience in accounts receivable or a similar finance role, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or lead position. Strong understanding of accounting principles and AR processes . Excellent leadership and team management abilities. Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to handle challenging client interactions. Proficiency in accounting software (e.g., SAP HANA) and Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, etc.). Analytical mindset with attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.