PRIMARY FUNCTION: The Deduction Specialist manages customer short pay/ deductions through the identification, research and resolution of issues surrounding deductions for an assigned portfolio of clients. Secondary responsibilities include assisting with collection efforts, research, and other accounts receivable duties.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS:        

• Perform daily processing of payment discrepancies (i.e. research, update and reconcile accounts receivable) using applicable accounting practices, making necessary adjustments to resolve customer disputes ensuring accounts are maintained in an effective, up-to-date manner
• Review, investigate, and resolve allowance related deductions by clearing valid ones, communicating with internal and external parties to resolve discrepancies, complex issues, and secure financial reimbursement of invalid deductions
• Prepare reports of delinquent or problem accounts, notifying appropriate personnel of habitual delinquencies
• Complete deduction reconciliation for assigned portfolio of accounts including documenting conversations via email, phone or face to face with external/internal customers, plants and logistics
• Confirm validity of account discrepancies and work to resolve by obtaining and investigating information from Sales, Trade Promotions and customers
• Maintain daily deduction data with backup and perform deduction reconciliation for assigned accounts, obtain and submit all invalid deductions to collections department 
• Crosstrain in other department functions as may backup team members when needed
• Perform additional relevant duties as assigned

SUPERVISOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• None. This is an individual contributor role with required competencies: Functional/Technical Skills, Action Oriented, Problem Solving, Learning on the Fly, and Interpersonal Savvy

EDUCATION and CERTIFICATIONS:

• Associates’ degree in Accounting, Finance, or other relevant discipline from an accredited institution
  • A combination of applicable experience and education may be substituted for degree

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS:

• Minimum five (5) years applicable accounts receivable related experience; concentrated experience in deductions preferred
• Must have exceptional communication skills; verbal and written, basic understanding of debits and credits, attention to detail and proficient problem-solving skills to analyze account/payment detail efficiently and effectively; ability to appropriately handle sensitive situations
  • Proficient Excel (formulas, v-lookups, pivots), Access, Word, Outlook and ERP financial software
  • Ability to work in a fast paced, high-volume environment using excellent organizational skills and precise attention to detail
  • Must possess a strong customer-centric attitude, high energy level and a strong sense of urgency

SAFETY REQUIREMENTS:

• Follow departmental and company safety policies and programs

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Moderate use of hands/fingers to operate computer, keyboard and mouse
• Ability to remain stationary for extended periods

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.