Accounts Receivable Specialist

Job Description

AR / Credit & Collections Specialist | New York, NY (World Trade Center) | Hybrid – 3 Days Onsite / 2 Days Remote | Salary: $80,000–$90,000 | Temp-to-Perm

About the role

A prominent global law firm is seeking an AR/Credit & Collections Specialist to join their Commercial Finance team in New York. Reporting to the Finance Manager, this is a high-touch, client-facing collections role responsible for managing the full AR cycle — from collections and cash application through account reconciliations and write-offs. The ideal candidate is assertive yet tactful, relationship-driven, and comfortable operating in a fast-paced professional services environment with tight deadlines and high standards.

What you'll actually do

• Conduct collection calls and follow-ups with clients, partners, fee earners, and internal stakeholders
• Apply daily cash receipts and reconcile client accounts accurately and on time
• Monitor and maintain client accounts including adjustments, reconciliations, and write-offs
• Investigate and resolve payment discrepancies, short payments, and billing disputes
• Generate, review, and distribute AR and collections reports; provide regular status updates within Elite 3E
• Build strong relationships with client finance contacts to reduce escalation and improve debtor days
• Work closely with Client Value, Billing, e-Billing, and Cashiers teams on invoice re-issues, amendments, and copies for client AP teams
• Support upfront billing controls to ensure invoices are received, approved, and paid within agreed timelines
• Assist with management of the firm's client money account and ensure regulatory compliance (SRA)
• Proactively flag and report aged AR issues to the Global Head of Commercial Finance
• Produce and distribute collection letters and automate reminders wherever possible
• Coordinate partner approvals for bad debt write-offs within specified timeframes
• Collaborate with Revenue Controllers and the broader Finance team on payment issues and ad-hoc projects

What we're looking for

• 2+ years of AR/collections experience in a professional services environment — legal, financial, or consulting; law firm experience a strong plus
• Must have hands-on experience with Elite 3E or similar legal billing software
• Experience working with e-billing portals required
• Strong Microsoft Excel skills — pivot tables and VLOOKUPs required
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to liaise confidently at all levels
• Assertive, persistent, and tactful approach to collections and client relationship management
• Strong attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to prioritize in a high-volume environment
• Proactive problem-solver with a positive, team-oriented attitude
• Ability to work well under pressure and adapt during peak periods

Environment A prestigious, globally recognized law firm headquartered in the World Trade Center in Lower Manhattan. The Finance team is collaborative and close-knit, operating across international markets with high standards for accuracy, professionalism, and client service. This is a varied, rewarding role for someone with strong collections expertise and partnering skills who is looking to grow their career at a world-class legal institution.

Additional details

• Location: World Trade Center, New York, NY 10007
• Schedule: Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm | Hybrid - 3 days onsite / 2 days remote
• Systems: Elite 3E, e-billing portals, Microsoft Excel
• Reports to: Finance Manager
• Interview process: 1 Virtual/ Onsite, Offer, Start