Summary
The Credit Manager is responsible for overseeing accounts receivable, collections, credit administration, customer account management, and cash application processes. This role ensures timely collection of outstanding balances, establishes and monitors customer credit limits, supports compliance requirements, and partners with sales and operations teams to manage customer account risk while maintaining positive business relationships.
Primary Responsibilities
- Manage customer credit accounts and monitor credit exposure to minimize financial risk.
- Review aging reports and oversee collection activities to ensure timely payment of outstanding balances.
- Establish, evaluate, and maintain customer credit limits and payment terms.
- Investigate and resolve customer account discrepancies, payment issues, short pays, and invoice disputes.
- Oversee cash application activities, including checks, EFT payments, ACH transactions, and unapplied cash.
- Review and approve account holds, releases, and credit-related adjustments.
- Partner with Sales, Operations, and Customer Service teams to resolve account issues and support business objectives.
- Prepare account analyses, collection reports, and credit-related metrics for leadership review.
- Maintain compliance with applicable state and industry regulations.
- Train and support employees on credit policies, account management procedures, and financial controls.
- Develop and maintain positive working relationships with customers, sales teams, and business partners.
- Complete special projects and other duties as assigned.
Key Competencies
- Credit and collections management
- Financial analysis and risk assessment
- Customer relationship management
- Problem-solving and decision-making
- Negotiation and conflict resolution
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Written and verbal communication skills
- Time management and organization
- Microsoft Office proficiency, particularly Excel
- Ability to manage confidential information
People Management
May supervise Accounts Receivable, Collections, or administrative personnel, depending on location and business needs.
Work Environment
This position operates primarily in an office environment and regularly interacts with customers, sales teams, finance personnel, and operational leadership.
Physical Demands
- Ability to remain seated for extended periods.
- Frequent use of computers and standard office equipment.
- Occasionally lift or move items up to 20 pounds.
Expected Hours of Work
This is a full-time position. Standard business hours are Monday through Friday, with additional hours as needed to support business operations and month-end activities..
Travel
Occasional travel may be required for meetings, training, or branch support.
Required Education and Experience
- High School Diploma or GED required.
- Minimum 5 years of experience in accounts receivable, credit, collections, or finance.
- Experience managing commercial credit accounts and collections processes.
- Advanced knowledge of financial and accounting practices.
Preferred Education and Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Beverage distribution, wholesale distribution, or consumer products industry experience.
- Previous leadership or supervisory experience.
Compensation
- Actual compensation packages are based on a wide array of factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, years and depth of experience, certifications, and specific location.
- Employees (and their families) are eligible for medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance. Employees can enroll in our company's 401(k) plan. Employees are also eligible for vacation and paid holidays in accordance with company policy.
- Hired applicants may be eligible for incentive, bonus, or annual bonus programs.
Reports to: VP
Classificaiton: Exempt
Req Benefits: Columbia Distributing offers a comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, 24/7 virtual care, paid vacation, sick and holiday time, and a 401(k) plan with company match. Additional offerings inclu