Cash Specialist

Howden•Charlotte, NC

2d•$80,000 - $100,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Howden is seeking a Cash Specialist in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a hybrid work schedule. The role provides day-to-day Direct Bill processing and reconciliation support, primarily for Howden US, with a focus on Health & Benefits and Private Client portfolios. The specialist ensures carrier and vendor statements are collected, reconciled, and processed accurately and on time; investigates billing and commission discrepancies; monitors aging and unapplied cash; and maintains complete, accurate records in the agency management system. The role works closely with carriers, finance, and operations teams to support accurate commission posting and revenue recognition, transparent reporting, timely escalation, and high-quality stakeholder service. The Cash Specialist supports Direct Bill accounting operations, KPI reporting, management information, account reconciliations, and process improvement initiatives. The position also requires compliance with company policies and applicable legal and regulatory requirements, and staying informed about relevant legal, regulatory, and market changes. The role is permanent and classified as exempt under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

Requirements

At least 2 years of experience in Direct Bill, insurance accounting, commission reconciliation, or comparable accounting operations; agency experience is preferred.
In-depth understanding of the Direct Bill lifecycle, including statement collection, reconciliation, commission posting, aging management, and unapplied cash resolution within an agency management system.
Ability to execute independently, manage Direct Bill and accounting processes accurately, and deliver high-quality results in a fast-paced environment.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to interpret and manipulate financial and operational data and identify trends, risks, and solutions.
Ability to prioritize tasks, resolve issues efficiently, and escalate appropriately.
Ability to interpret, implement, and consistently enforce policies, procedures, internal controls, and governance requirements.
Clear verbal and written communication skills, including translating data into actionable insights and influencing outcomes.
Collaborative approach and ability to contribute across functions and support shared objectives.
Self-motivation, initiative, and commitment to learning and continuous improvement.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Nice To Haves

Hands-on tactical experience with Applied Epic.
Experience collaborating with offshore or cross-functional partners.

Responsibilities

Collect carrier and vendor statements and process and reconcile them accurately within agreed timelines, escalating exceptions when needed.
Reconcile carrier commission statements against agency management system records and ensure commissions are posted and applied to the correct policy and client accounts.
Investigate and resolve billing, commission, and reconciliation discrepancies with carriers and internal stakeholders.
Monitor Direct Bill aging, outstanding balances, and unapplied cash, following up on past-due or at-risk items.
Maintain carrier portal access and credentials and download statements on schedule for reconciliation, month-end processing, and reporting.
Coordinate prioritization with offshore reconciliation partners and operations teams to ensure timely issue resolution.
Respond to business and customer requirements professionally and with sound judgment, while maintaining high ethical standards.
Maintain accurate, current system records and support Direct Bill accounting operations, KPI reporting, and management information.
Use data-driven insights to prioritize aging and reconciliation activity, identify escalation needs, and communicate risks and progress.
Support assigned initiatives and contribute to cross-functional process improvement projects.
Perform and validate account reconciliations with carriers, markets, and clients, ensuring issues are identified, investigated, and resolved efficiently and accurately.
Respond to Direct Bill and account-related inquiries promptly and in accordance with service standards.
Comply with company policies, procedures, and applicable legal and regulatory requirements.
Stay informed about relevant legal, regulatory, and market changes affecting the role and business.