Job Description

Description Lead Finance Specialist - Accounts Receivable(SME) Location: Chennai, India Required Language: English Employment Type: Full-Time Seniority Level: Associate Travel Mode: Moderate About Us Buckman is a privately held, global specialty chemical company with headquarters in Memphis, TN, USA, committed to safeguarding the environment, maintaining safety in the workplace, and promoting sustainable development. Buckman works proactively and collaboratively with its worldwide customers in pulp, paper, leather, and water treatment to deliver exceptional service and innovative specialty chemical solutions to help boost productivity, reduce risk, improve product quality, and provide a measurable return on investment. Buckman is in the middle of a digital transformation of its businesses and is focused on building the capabilities and tools in support of this. Purpose The Accounts Receivable Subject Matter Expert (AR SME) drives end-to-end AR optimization by providing expert guidance, resolving complex challenges, and ensuring compliance with policies. The role focuses on leading AR automation, implementing innovative solutions, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to enhance efficiency. The ideal candidate excels in improving collections performance, leveraging analytics, and streamlining AR processes through scalable solutions. Qualifications & Experience  Minimum 10 +years’ experience in the end to end AR process.  Expertise in AR operations, credit management, and collections strategies.  Strong knowledge of ERP systems (e.g., SAP) and AR reporting tools.  Strong understanding of automation tools (e.g., RPA, AI-based cash application systems, e-invoicing).  Advanced analytical skills with proficiency in Power BI, or similar tools.  Excellent problem-solving and communication skills, with the ability to engage with stakeholders at all levels.  Strong project management skills to oversee complex initiatives and system implementations. Key Responsibilities Process Leadership & Documentation  Oversee and manage the entire AR process lifecycle: billing, credit control, collections, cash applications, and reconciliations.  Develop, document, and continuously improve AR policies, SOPs, and internal controls to drive standardization and compliance. Issue Resolution & Risk Mitigation  Resolve complex AR issues and disputes in collaboration with internal teams and customers.  Identify and mitigate risks related to overdue receivables, write-offs, and bad debts.  Provide strategic recommendations to reduce outstanding balances and improve collections. Stakeholder & Customer Collaboration  Collaborate closely with Sales, Customer Service, Finance, and IT to ensure accurate invoicing, timely payments, and efficient system integration (e.g., SAP and other platforms).  Act as a key liaison with external customers to maintain strong relationships and ensure prompt issue resolution and payment compliance. Team Development  Mentor, train, and support the AR team in mastering best practices, tools, and systems.  Lead workshops and learning sessions to foster functional excellence and drive consistency across global operations. Process Improvement & Automation  Champion continuous improvement and automation initiatives within AR (e.g., automated dunning, AI-based credit assessment, ERP enhancements).  Track and analyse AR metrics such as Days Sales Outstanding (DSO), collection effectiveness index (CEI), and dispute resolution time to identify areas of enhancement. Compliance & Reporting  Ensure full compliance with accounting principles, corporate policies, and contractual obligations.  Prepare audit-ready documentation and support both internal and external audits with timely, accurate records.  Maintain detailed transaction histories to support financial reporting and risk audits. Risk Management  Monitor AR risks including credit exposure, fraud, and operational errors.  Enforce controls around customer master data, invoice validation, and cash application processes.  Implement preventive mechanisms to avoid duplicate invoices, misapplications, and data inaccuracies. Core Competencies The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following key competencies essential for success in this role: Drives Results Consistently delivers high-quality outcomes by setting clear goals and maintaining focus, even in challenging circumstances. Demonstrates persistence and urgency to meet deadlines and exceed expectations. Collaborates Builds strong partnerships across teams and functions. Encourages open communication, mutual respect, and shared ownership to achieve common goals and improve cross-functional effectiveness. Optimizes Work Processes Knowing the most effective and efficient processes to get things done, with a focus on continuous improvement. Direct Work Providing direction, delegating, and removing obstacles to get work done. Show more Show less