Role Description
The Credit Specialist is responsible for evaluating customer creditworthiness, processing and reviewing credit applications, monitoring customer accounts, managing credit risk, and supporting accounts receivable activities. This position plays a critical role in minimizing bad debt exposure while supporting sales growth through sound credit decisions and effective customer relationship management.
Key Responsibilities
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Credit Analysis & Approval
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Review and evaluate new customer credit applications.
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Analyze credit reports, trade references, and payment histories.
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Establish and recommend credit limits based on risk assessment and company guidelines.
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Maintain accurate credit files and supporting documentation.
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Perform periodic reviews of existing customer accounts and credit limits.
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Account Monitoring
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Monitor customer payment trends and account activity.
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Identify high-risk accounts and recommend appropriate action.
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Review aging reports and assess potential collection risks.
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Track credit exposure and ensure compliance with established credit policies.
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Accounts Receivable Support
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Assist with collection efforts on past-due accounts.
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Communicate with customers regarding payment discrepancies and account balances.
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Resolve billing, credit, and payment issues in collaboration with customers and internal departments.
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Maintain detailed notes and records of collection activities.
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Risk Management
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Evaluate and mitigate credit risk to reduce potential losses.
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Recommend account holds, release of orders, or revised payment terms when necessary.
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Monitor bankruptcy filings, liens, and other indicators of financial distress.
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Support efforts to improve Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) and overall cash flow.
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Reporting & Collaboration
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Prepare credit and collection reports for management.
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Work closely with Sales, Accounting, and Legal departments.
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Assist in developing and maintaining credit policies and procedures.
Qualifications
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Associate's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field required.
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Bachelor's degree preferred.
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2-5 years of experience in credit, accounts receivable, and collections.
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Experience evaluating commercial credit applications, preferably within the trucking, transportation, or fleet industry.
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Strong understanding of credit principles, collections, and accounts receivable processes.
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Ability to analyze financial data and assess customer credit risk.
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Knowledge of credit reporting agencies and commercial credit references.
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Proficient in Microsoft Excel and ERP systems (Karmak is a plus).
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Strong organizational and time-management skills.
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Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
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Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment.
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Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities.
Work Environment
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Position can be remote if outside of Memphis, TN area.
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May require interaction with customers, vendors, and financial institutions regarding credit and payment matters.