Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
References
Timeline
Generic
Phoenix Ballentine

Phoenix Ballentine

Credit & Collections Manager
Chicago,IL

Summary

Highly-qualified Credit & Collections Manager adept at helping customers develop effective payment plans using persuasive communication skills and knowledge of financial options. Bringing more than 18 years of experience optimizing credit policies to balance profit and loss.

Overview

18
18
years of professional experience

Work History

Credit & Collections Manager

Color Brands LLC
02.2023 - Current
  • Enhanced revenue recovery by implementing effective credit collections strategies.
  • Conducted periodic credit reviews to assess customer creditworthiness and adjust limits accordingly.
  • Reduced delinquency rates through consistent monitoring and follow-up on overdue accounts.
  • Streamlined collections processes for increased efficiency and effectiveness in collecting outstanding debts.
  • Developed strong relationships with customers, fostering open communication to resolve payment issues promptly.
  • Collaborated with sales and finance teams to ensure proper credit extension and minimize risk exposure.
  • Improved cash flow by negotiating favorable payment terms with clients experiencing financial difficulties.
  • Trained and mentored new team members on best practices in credit collections management.
  • Reduced bad debt write-offs through proactive account management and early identification of high-risk accounts.
  • Achieved successful resolutions for complex collection cases by working closely with legal counsel when necessary.
  • Presented regular reports on departmental performance, providing key insights into areas requiring further attention or action from leadership teams.
  • Accessed credit records to evaluate customer credit histories.

Assistant Credit Manager

C.H. Robinson International
Chicago, IL
01.2009 - 02.2023
  • Conducted investigations and in-depth evaluations of customers for creditworthiness and potential risk factors.
  • Managed all reporting, documentation and recordkeeping requirements for department.
  • Collaborated cross-functionally with sales, management and other departments to maintain effective operations.
  • Completed ongoing professional training to facilitate accurate and productive credit management.
  • Applied deep understanding of industry best practices and legal requirements to prevent critical incidents.
  • Created standard operating procedures and delivered training to credit personnel to improve operational efficiency.
  • Compiled data and analyzed latest trends, identifying risks preventatively.
  • Identified possible issues with credit systems and monitoring by streamlining processes ahead of time.
  • Reviewed a personal portfolio of 250+ accounts which exceeded 200MM in Credit Limits.
  • Worked with management to evaluate credit strategies and develop improvements.

Accounting Analyst

Joseph T. Ryerson & Son
03.2006 - 01.2009
  • Investigated billing discrepancies and implemented effective solutions to resolve concerns and prevent future problems.
  • Worked closely with account holders to collect and reconcile accounts through approved channels.
  • Oversaw disputes resolution and reconciliation for a portfolio of global and fortune 500 companies totaling 50MM which was maintained at 90% current for 7 consecutive quarters and reduced the over 90 past due balance by 95%.
  • Administered the credit risk function in a manner that increased sales and profits and promoted customer stability while reducing corporate risk
  • Performed financial reviews which included analysis of financial statements, trade, and bank references.
  • Worked closely with team members to deliver project requirements, develop solutions and meet deadlines.
  • Prioritized and organized tasks to efficiently accomplish service goals.
  • Demonstrated leadership by making improvements to work processes and helping to train others.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Biology

Oberlin College
Oberlin, OH
05.2000

Skills

  • Financial evaluations
  • Performance improvements
  • Proficient with NetSuite, SalesForce, SAP, AS400, PeopleSoft, Navisphere, Microsoft Office
  • Policy development
  • Risk analysis & assessment
  • Payroll Processing
  • HR Functions
  • Debt Recovery Expertise
  • Account Reconciliation Abilities
  • Credit Analysis Proficiency

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Credit & Collections Manager

Color Brands LLC
02.2023 - Current

Assistant Credit Manager

C.H. Robinson International
01.2009 - 02.2023

Accounting Analyst

Joseph T. Ryerson & Son
03.2006 - 01.2009

Bachelor of Science - Biology

Oberlin College
Phoenix BallentineCredit & Collections Manager