Manager - Accounts Receivable

Merz Group•Raleigh, NC

About The Position

The Accounts Receivable (AR) Manager is responsible for overseeing all AR operations within a highly regulated pharmaceutical environment for a fast‑paced, growing therapeutics organization. This role ensures accurate customer billing, timely collections, compliance with contractual and regulatory requirements, and effective cash‑flow management and AR master data governance. The AR Manager partners closely with Finance, Customer Solutions, Government Pricing and Reporting teams to support revenue integrity and minimize financial risk.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting required.
Five to eight years experience in successfully leading a team in the Accounts Receivable function.
Ability to drive continuous improvement of AR workflows, internal controls, and automation.
Abiltiy to organize the team to maintain SOPs and and ensure team members follow standardized processes.
Excellent relationship‑building across internal teams and external partners
Competenices include detail‑oriented, strong problem‑solving skills, ability to manage competing priorities and meet tight deadlines, strong customer‑relationship management in a complex, regulated environment. leadership, coaching, and team‑development capability.

Nice To Haves

CPA/MBA preferred.
Experience in implementing new SAP ERPs with S/4 Hanna is a plus.

Responsibilities

Lead end‑to‑end AR processes including invoicing, cash application, deductions, collections, and AR account reconciliations.
Ensure billing accuracy in alignment with pricing agreements, chargebacks, government contracts, wholesaler terms, and specialty pharmacy arrangements.
Oversee cash application to ensure timely and accurate posting of customer payments.
Manage customer account setup and credit limits, partnering with field sales staff as needed.
Maintain strong relationships with wholesalers, distributors, specialty pharmacies, hospitals, and other pharmaceutical customers including our current 3PL provider.
Monitor aging reports and drive strategies to reduce DSO and improve overall collections performance.
Lead resolution of short‑pays, deductions, and disputes, including issues related to chargebacks, rebates, returns, or pricing discrepancies.
Strategic mindset with an ability to implement scalable processes.
Ensure AR operations comply with pharmaceutical industry regulations, including: Sunshine Act data awareness (where relevant to customer payments) Medicaid/Government Pricing considerations related to invoice accuracy Contract compliance and documentation standards
Support internal and external audits by providing schedules, reconciliations, and documentation.
Assist and support accounting projects as required.
Prepare AR metrics including aging, DSO, bad debt reserves, assist in cash‑flow forecasts, and collection trends. Collaborate with the Accounting and FP&A teams to support month‑end close and revenue recognition. Provide insights and recommendations to senior leadership on AR risks and opportunities.
Supervise, mentor, and develop AR Analysts. Set performance goals, conduct evaluations, and ensure adequate training and cross‑training. Foster a culture of accuracy, accountability, and continuous improvement.