Credit and Collections Associate

Company Description

Bertelsmann is building a global network of Accounting Shared Service Centers (ASSC) to bundle and standardize the Group's accounting processes. This includes Accounting Shared Service Centers at existing Bertelsmann locations in core European countries, North America and China. Become part of the Shared Service Center organization at our Westminster (MD) location. We look forward to your application for this exciting and varied job at one of the world's largest media corporations.

Join us in shaping the world of media, services and education. We offer business challenges and exciting projects in attractive work environments, as well as individual career and development opportunities. Bertelsmann operates in some 50 countries around the world. It includes the broadcaster RTL Group, the trade book publisher Penguin Random House, the magazine publisher Gruner + Jahr, the music company BMG, the service provider Arvato, the Bertelsmann Printing Group, the Bertelsmann Education Group, and Bertelsmann Investments, an international network of funds.

We are seeking a detail-oriented Credit & Collections Associate to manage customer accounts, evaluate creditworthiness, monitor outstanding balances, and ensure timely collection of payments. Responsibilities include reviewing credit applications, maintaining accurate account records, resolving billing issues, following up on overdue accounts, and collaborating with internal teams to reduce credit risk.

• Review and process credit-held orders throughout the day to ensure timely resolution.

• Respond promptly to customer inquiries received by phone and email.

• Investigate claims and process appropriate debit, credit, or denial adjustments.

• Research and resolve internal and external customer account inquiries.

• Build positive relationships with customers across assigned territories.

• Maintain accurate account records, payment history, and status updates.

• Analyze account activity and credit exposure to support informed credit decisions.

• Assist with account maintenance and documentation for write-offs when necessary.

• Assess customer financial information to evaluate risk and recommend appropriate actions.

• Negotiate payment arrangements and account reconciliations within established guidelines.

• Collaborate with customers to resolve outstanding balances and account discrepancies.

• Recommend collection strategies, including payment plans, shipment holds, or other actions as appropriate.

• Escalate complex situations and potential concerns to management when needed.

• Stay current with technology, tools, and best practices that improve efficiency and customer service.

• Support additional projects and responsibilities as business needs evolve.

• Remote position with potential hybrid work opportunities.

• Collaborative and supportive team environment.

• Opportunities to develop your financial, analytical, and customer service skills.

• Exposure to a variety of clients and business challenges.

• Ongoing learning and professional growth opportunities.

The salary range for this position is $40,000-$42,000 per year. Additional compensation may be awarded annually contingent upon the company's results, and at the sole discretion of the company.

• A strong communicator with excellent verbal and written communication skills.

• Customer-focused and skilled at building productive relationships.

• Has the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• Comfortable making informed decisions and providing thoughtful recommendations.

• Has intermediate excel skills, and proficient with Outlook (SAP experience is a bonus).

• Familiar with credit, collections, and financial account management practices.

• Knowledgeable of credit and bankruptcy regulations (preferred).

• Has strong organizational skills with the ability to manage follow-ups, track outstanding items, and maintain timely reminders.

• High school diploma or equivalent required.

• Previous experience in collections, accounts receivable, customer service, or other related fields.

• Have the availability to work Monday through Friday from 8:30AM to 5:00PM EST.

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Bertelsmann Global Business Services values the array of talents and perspectives that a diverse workforce brings. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment…