Collections Specialist at Airgas in Independence, OH

Summary: Airgas is a leading U.S. supplier of industrial, medical and specialty gases, and they are seeking a Collections Specialist. The role involves managing and reconciling an accounts receivable portfolio, resolving customer account issues, and collaborating with various teams to ensure timely collections and maintain professional relationships. Responsibilities: - Manage and reconcile an account portfolio, prioritizing efforts to maximize collections while identifying accounts at risk of delinquency - Resolve customer account issues, including past due invoices, and negotiate payment settlements as necessary. Assist in resolving non-payment issues - Collaborate with Cash Applications, Dispute Management, and Special Handling teams to resolve unpaid cash, non-payment issues, and customer disputes. Initiate reviews and recommendations regarding final demand notices and outside collections with Field Sales and Collection management - Maintain professional relationships with branch managers, account managers, and area sales managers. Inform regional managers of issues when appropriate Required Qualifications: - Strong passion for fostering an environment of Diversity, Inclusion and Respect - Experience with developing, contributing, and supporting Airgas' commitment to a World Class Service, exceeding customer expectations and building brand loyalty - Manage and reconcile an account portfolio, prioritizing efforts to maximize collections while identifying accounts at risk of delinquency - Resolve customer account issues, including past due invoices, and negotiate payment settlements as necessary - Assist in resolving non-payment issues - Collaborate with Cash Applications, Dispute Management, and Special Handling teams to resolve unpaid cash, non-payment issues, and customer disputes - Initiate reviews and recommendations regarding final demand notices and outside collections with Field Sales and Collection management - Maintain professional relationships with branch managers, account managers, and area sales managers - Inform regional managers of issues when appropriate - Demonstrated excellence in oral and written communication and interpersonal skills - Ability to adapt communication style to various customer situations - Positive attitude and willingness to learn, coupled with the ability to collaborate effectively within a team - Customer-focused behavior, including building positive relationships and understanding customer needs - Ability to handle challenging situations diplomatically and professionally - Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make independent decisions and escalate issues when necessary - Proficiency in Google Suite applications and/or Microsoft Office (Word, Excel) - High School Diploma/GED required Preferred Qualifications: - SAP experience preferred - Associate's/Bachelor's degree preferred Required Skills: Accounts receivable management, Collections, Payment negotiation, Customer dispute resolution, Google Suite, Microsoft Office, SAP, Diplomacy, Customer-focused behavior Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D, Short Term and Long Term Disability Insurance, Vacation, Sick, Paid Holidays, 401(k) Retirement Plan with company match, Tuition Assistance, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), Pre-tax commuter transportation benefit, Parental leave, Floating holidays, Jury duty and funeral/bereavement leave, Discounted college tuition for eligible employees’ dependents, Airgas Scholarship Program for dependent children