The OpportunityThe Manager, Cash Applications, is responsible for leading Encore's cash application function during a period of significant organizational growth and transformation. This role directly oversees a team of Cash Application Specialists and is accountable for the timely, accurate posting of customer payments across a high-volume, decentralized customer base, while driving down unapplied and unidentified cash.
This is a high-visibility role with a direct impact on the accuracy of Encore's AR ledger and downstream collections effectiveness. The ideal candidate is an experienced cash applications or order-to-cash leader with a track record of building teams, tightening controls, and implementing the operational discipline needed to keep cash posting current and accurate.
Key ResponsibilitiesTeam Leadership & Development
- Directly manage a team of Cash Application Specialists, providing coaching, accountability, and day-to-day direction.
- Set clear performance expectations, monitor individual and team output, and conduct regular one-on-ones and performance reviews.
- Drive a culture of accuracy, urgency, and continuous improvement across the cash applications team.
- Support onboarding and development of new and temporary cash application staff as volume scales.
- Identify high-potential team members and create development opportunities to build long-term bench strength.
Cash Application Performance & Execution
- Own cash application outcomes across all payment channels, including lockbox, ACH, wire, credit card, and check remittances.
- Ensure daily cash is applied within established SLAs, prioritizing high-dollar and high-volume remittances.
- Monitor and drive down unapplied and unidentified cash balances, partnering with collections and billing to resolve root causes.
- Oversee research and resolution of short pays, deductions, overpayments, and misapplied cash.
- Track and report on weekly and monthly cash application KPIs to the Director of Accounts Receivable and senior leadership.
Process & Technology
- Partner with Treasury and Banking on lockbox setup, remittance file formats, and payment portal enhancements.
- Identify gaps in cash application procedures and exception-handling workflows; implement improvements in partnership with AR leadership.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives targeting straight-through processing rates and reduction of manual touches.
- Partner with the Manager, AR Operations and Collections Manager to ensure cash posting aligns with billing accuracy and collections activity.
Controls & Reconciliation
- Ensure daily cash application reconciles to bank deposits and the general ledger, escalating and resolving discrepancies timely.
- Maintain strong internal controls over cash handling, unapplied cash aging, and refund/credit processing.
- Support month-end close activities related to cash application, unapplied cash, and customer credit balances.
- Partner with internal and external audit on cash application testing and documentation requests.
Reporting & Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Prepare and present cash application performance reporting to AR leadership, including unapplied cash aging and trend analysis.
- Collaborate with branch operations, billing, and collections to resolve root causes of misapplied or unidentified payments.
- Partner with the Director of Accounts Receivable on strategic initiatives including AR transformation, system integrations, and process automation.
What You Bring to the Table- 5+ years of experience in cash applications, order-to-cash, or accounts receivable, with at least 2+ years in a management role overseeing a team.
- Demonstrated track record of driving measurable improvements in unapplied cash, posting accuracy, or straight-through processing rates in a high-volume environment.
- Experience leading cash application operations in a decentralized, multi-location, or field services business is strongly preferred.
- Proficiency with cash application and collections management platforms (Esker experience a plus) and Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret bank and remittance data, identify trends, and translate data into action plans.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate and manage a team through change.
- Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment and maintain focus on high-impact activities.
What Will Make You Stand Out? - Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, business, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
- Experience with lockbox banking relationships, remittance automation, or AI/OCR-based cash matching tools.
- Experience in a PE-backed, metric-driven environment (acquisition/integration exposure, EBITDA focus, working capital optimization, etc.) or a multi-site, decentralized operation.
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Beyond the PaycheckAt Encore, we're all about creating a culture where success is celebrated. We recognize that our work makes people's lives safer, and we reward those who contribute to our growth. Here's what you can expect:
- Competitive Pay: Hourly rate based on experience with a performance-based bonus opportunity.
- Tuition Assistance: Paid tuition for fire protection-related schooling needed to obtain licensing.
- Purpose-Driven Work Environment: We believe in working smarter, not harder. You'll be part of a culture that values results, and we empower our team to focus on impactful work.
- Swag: High-quality company swag and attire (t-shirts, hoodies, jackets) - at least twice a year.
- People-Focused Culture: We know our greatest strength is our people. That's why we've built a culture that encourages experimentation, learning, and improving together. You'll have the space to share your ideas and help shape a company that is constantly growing.
- Tools for Success: Access to leading-edge web-based productivity tools.
- Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage to keep you and your family healthy.
- Retirement Planning: Participation in our Fidelity 401(k) plan with a company match, helping you save for your future.
- Life Insurance: Company-paid life insurance policy of $50,000 to give you peace of mind.
