Accounts Receivable Managers

An accounts receivable manager is responsible for maintaining the financial records of a business or organization, particularly regarding incoming payments and debts owed.

Accounts receivable managers may also handle loan documents, calculate payments and interest, and make sure the correct amounts are both billed and received in a timely fashion.

Moreover, with the title of manager comes the responsibility of overseeing other employees who handle financial transactions, so an accounts receivable manager should have strong leadership skills in addition to familiarity with accounting principles.

An accounts receivable manager often begins in an entry-level position as a clerk and then moves up the career ladder with experience.

Degrees for Accounts Receivable Managers

An associate or bachelor’s degree in accounting, bookkeeping, business, or business administration may be required by an employer seeking an accounts receivable manager. Relevant work experience is also a plus on a job candidate’s resume.

Coursework for aspiring accounts receivable managers could include accounting, finance, general business principles, business administration, and business ethics. A strong foundation in the use of accounting or bookkeeping programs and software is also recommended.

Most employers provide training for employees, and certification in this field is also an option.

Accounts Receivable Manager Salary*

Salaries of accounts receivable managers vary according to education and experience, but the median annual wages of bookkeeping, accounting, and auditing clerks in 2008 were $32,510, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics; the middle 50% earned between $26,350 and $40,130.

The U.S. Department of Labor expects job growth for accounting, bookkeeping, and auditing clerks to be “about as fast as average.” The number of available positions should rise as current employees retire or simply move on to other positions.

Employers will likely continue to prefer those employees who can perform a wide range of tasks, so those with broad training or experience should see the best job prospects.

*Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics