The Accounts Receivable Specialist is responsible for the timely collection and accurate application of customer payments for North America. The role manages customer accounts throughout the collection process, maintains accurate and complete collection records, resolves payment issues, and supports cash forecasting and Accounts Receivable reporting.

The AR Specialist works closely with customers and internal stakeholders to resolve outstanding balances and ensure collection activity is handled consistently with company policies. The role also identifies opportunities to improve collections and payment processes, documentation, and systems.

Responsibilities & Duties Collections & Customer Account Management

- Manage the day-to-day collection of outstanding customer accounts and ensure timely and consistent follow-up.
- Monitor accounts receivable aging and prioritize collection activity based on aging, balance, risk, and customer circumstances.
- Contact customers regarding outstanding balances, investigate reasons for non-payment, and work with customers to resolve issues and expedite payment.
- Negotiate and manage payment arrangements when required, in accordance with company policies.
- Escalate significantly past-due or high-risk accounts in accordance with established collection procedures.
- Partner with Account Management and other internal stakeholders to resolve disputes or other issues preventing payment.
- Maintain complete and current records of collection activity, customer commitments, disputes, and correspondence within the appropriate systems.
- Implement and consistently follow company collection policies, procedures, and escalation timelines.

Payments & Reconciliation

- Record and apply customer payments and ad-hoc deposits accurately and promptly.
- Investigate and resolve unapplied cash, unidentified deposits, and payment discrepancies.
- Reconcile cash receipts to the general ledger and investigate discrepancies.




- Maintain accurate records of payments, deposits, and related supporting documentation.
- Support month-end accounts receivable reconciliation and close activities as required.

Reporting & Cash Forecasting

- Prepare regular reporting on collections activity, past-due balances, payment commitments, and collection risk.
- Prepare and analyze accounts receivable aging reports and identify trends or accounts requiring additional attention.
- Support cash forecasting by maintaining accurate information on expected customer payments and timing.
- Track collection performance and other key AR metrics and provide information to Finance leadership as required.

Process, Controls & Systems

- Identify and implement opportunities to improve Collections & Payments processes, controls, and system usage.
- Maintain current procedures and documentation for collection, payment, and reconciliation processes.
- Ensure collection activity complies with company policies and applicable requirements.
- Maintain knowledge of relevant requirements and procedures related to debt collection.
- Contribute to AR operational standards by identifying opportunities to improve productivity, quality, accuracy, and customer service.
- Support implementation and optimization of systems and tools related to Collections & Payments.
- Provide documentation and information required for internal and external audits.
- Provide coverage and support for other Finance activities as required.
- Leverage AI tools responsibly to increase the efficiency of the Collections & Payments function in accordance with company privacy, security, and fairness standards.

Qualifications & Competencies

Certificate or Diploma in Accounting, Bookkeeping, a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience

Experience required 2+ years in accounting or a similar role

Typical experience range 2-4 years Education level College degree, skilled training, or technical program Field of education Accounting, Bookkeeping, or related discipline

📌 Accounts Receivable Specialist (Toronto)
🏢 Axxel HR
📍 Toronto