The Firmwide Accounts Receivable Manager is responsible for the day-to-day management of the collection of accounts receivable throughout the Firm, working directly with the Firm’s clients, Partners, and other revenue departments to maximize collection realization. The Firmwide Accounts Receivable Manager will lead the team to execute a consistent, systematic and progressive collection process using collection software and other tools. While ensuring the Firm’s relationships with our clients are preserved, the Firmwide Accounts Receivable Manager provides the highest level of client service to the Firm’s partners and clients. This role reports directly to the Firmwide Senior Manager of Credit and Collections.

• Oversee the daily operating functions of the Accounts Receivable department. Ensure department policies and procedures are established, documented and communicated, and that the team is complying with the policies and procedures.
• Provide guidance to the Accounts Receivable team on how to handle complex requests or situations; act as an escalation point for such situations as needed.
• Engage with Firm Leadership (e.g. Global Practice Leaders, Management Committee, Chief Financial Officer, Executive Director or others, as appropriate) in a timely manner on accounts receivable balances that are of concern in order to reduce the risk of financial loss.
• Collaborate with Firm partners and clients to develop and implement payment plans or alternative collection strategies that support strong client relationships while maximizing the recoverability of outstanding accounts receivable.
• Identify, propose and implement process, system or policy improvements related to the management of the Firm’s outstanding receivables. Enlist the support of Firm management to execute on these improvements.
• Supervise, manage, lead (by example), mentor, and coach the members of the department. Develop a world class team that will provide superior customer service to all internal and external clients. Complete staff evaluations annually.
• Promote a high level of customer service within the team, ensuring customer service standards are set and achieved.
• Assess the staffing needs of the department and work with the Firmwide Senior Manager of Credit and Collections to ensure the department has the appropriate level of support to meet the Firm’s objectives. Assist with interviewing and selecting new hires as needed. 
• Collaborate and develop strong working relationships with other departments including Billing, Electronic Billing, Revenue Management, Financial Terms Management, Client Accounting, Conflicts and New Business, and Information Technology.
• Maintain a deep understanding of the legal industry, the Firm’s practices, clients and business processes.

Salaries vary by location and are based on numerous factors, including, but not limited to, the relevant market, skills, experience, and education of the selected candidate. If an estimated salary range for this role is available, it will be provided in our Target Salary Range section. Our compensation package also includes bonus eligibility and a comprehensive benefits program. Benefits information can be found at Sidley.com/Benefits.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the Duties and Responsibilities (Duties) above satisfactorily and meet the requirements below. The requirements listed below are representative of the minimum knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job. If you need such an accommodation, please email staffrecruiting@sidley.com (current employees should contact Human Resources). 

Education and/or Experience: 

Required:

• Bachelor degree, preferably in business, accounting, or finance
• Minimum of 7 years experience in accounts receivable or related accounting functions
• Minimum of 3 years experience in a supervisory or team leadership role
• Advanced Excel skills and proficiency with other Microsoft Office products

Preferred:

• Previous experience working in a law firm or other professional services firm
• Experience with Elite 3E

Other Skills and Abilities:

The following will also be required of the successful candidate:

• Strong organizational skills
• Strong attention to detail
• Good judgment
• Strong interpersonal communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Able to work harmoniously and effectively with others
• Able to preserve confidentiality and exercise discretion
• Able to work under pressure
• Able to manage multiple projects with competing deadlines and priorities

Sidley Austin LLP is an Equal Opportunity Employer

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