Accounts Receivable Team Lead

The Organization

LGM is a national leader in providing warranty, finance and insurance services to the Canadian automotive industry. Since 1998, LGM has been successfully supplying quality products and leading training solutions to Canadian automotive dealerships. Dealer partnerships are complimented with the strong backing and support of their automotive manufacturing brands, which include BMW/MINI, Kia, Mazda, Volvo, Jaguar, Land Rover/Range Rover and Mitsubishi Motors.

The Job

The Accounts Receivable Team Lead is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of Accounts Receivables function. This position plays a key role of optimizing AR processes through timely and accurate collection, effective dispute resolution, as well as effective reporting of accounts receivable subledger information. This role will mentor and guide the AR team and ensure alignment with departmental goals, while driving continuous improvement and cross-functional collaboration to enhance overall AR performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the daily accounts receivable functions with a focus on cash flow optimization, achievement of financial objectives, process improvement and change management.
• Supervise the AR team, providing guidance, support, and training for AR activities including complex customer transactions and reconciliations.
• Proactively monitor and investigate aging reports and work closely with the team to resolve any overdue payments, including handling escalated collection issues.
• Investigate circumstances of non-payment, resolve conflicts, and negotiate expedited dealer payments.
• Prepare and review journal entries, assigned reconciliations and monthly AR reports
• Oversee month end cycle processes to support the preparation of working papers.
• Develop and maintain comprehensive training materials and procedures for the AR function to ensure the team is equipped with the necessary resources and support.
• Approve and sign-offs on financial transactions and reporting authorized within the scope of the role, i.e. EFT payments, month end financial schedules and reports.
• Oversee data storage and information sharing processes to ensure information is accurate and up to date, i.e. dealerships, contract holders, invoicing terms and conditions, etc.
• Identify process improvements and collaborate with leadership to implement process enhancements.
• Build trusted partnerships with key stakeholders from other areas of the business.
• Collaborate with other departments to streamline processes and resolve collection issues.
• Oversee data review and approval processes to ensure credible, timely, and accurate business reports and information for internal and external stakeholders.
• Serve as primary contact for internal and external audits by providing required documentation and reports.
• Participate in training for backup coverage of tasks and responsibilities when necessary.
• Ensure compliance with company policies, internal controls, and government regulations.
• Participate in changes to systems and processes to enhance efficiency, controls, and accuracy.
• Manage special projects as assigned.

Core Competencies:

• Communication – Able to clearly and articulately present information in both spoken and written word.
• Collaboration – Develops positive relationships with others in order to build consensus, morale and commitment to goals and objectives.
• Innovation – Displays the ability to think outside of the box in order to develop creative and new solutions that meets current and future needs.
• Flexibility – Easily adapts to changing environment and resources.
• Productivity – Strives to consistently achieve excellence in all tasks and goals.
• Accountability – Takes personal ownership and responsibility for the quality and timeliness of work commitments and decisions.
• Resilience - Responds well to pressure and the demands of daily life. Has flexibility durability, strength and speed of recovery.

Required Skills

• Strong understanding of accounting and financial practices
• Proficient with MS Office suite of products and accounting/ERP systems (i.e. Sage)
• Excellent communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
• Exceptional and efficient service to internal/external customers
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Bilingual (English/French) oral and written is an asset.

Education

• Post-secondary degree in Accounting/Finance or related discipline
• CPA candidate or equivalent

Experience

• 4+ years in accounting/finance environment
• 1-2 years in a leadership role with solid understanding in accounts receivable, collections or credit management
• Proven track record of driving improvements in collections performance and team productivity.
• Prior experience in insurance industry would be beneficial

What We Offer:

• The compensation range for this position is $65,000 - 75,000 + bonus.
• Hybrid work model, with 3 days a week required in-office.
• A competitive compensation package, including a comprehensive health benefits plan, Group RRSP, performance bonus, health and wellness benefits, and education sponsorship.
• Four paid days annually to "give back" to the community, along with your birthday off.
• A vehicle rebate program of up to $400 per month.