Collections Specialist

Williams Mullen; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Williams Mullen is seeking a motivated Collections Specialist to join our Accounting Department in Richmond. You will manage client accounts, build strong attorney and client relationships, and drive timely payments while improving collections processes.

This role offers cross-training in client accounting and billing, exposure to law firm operations, and opportunities for professional growth within a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree preferred; equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Minimum of three (3) years of collections, accounts receivable, billing, or client accounting experience required.
• Experience in a law firm, professional services, or financial services environment is strongly preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage an assigned portfolio of client accounts and reduce aged accounts receivable balances.
• Build relationships with attorneys, clients, and internal stakeholders to facilitate timely payment.
• Conduct collection calls, emails, and written correspondence professionally.
• Monitor payment arrangements and ensure compliance with terms.
• Partner with billing attorneys and accounting staff to resolve delays and collection challenges.
• Research and resolve billing discrepancies, unapplied cash, and payment-related concerns.
• Review and reconcile unallocated funds and trust balances for proper application or refund.
• Maintain detailed records of collection efforts and account activity.
• Prepare account analyses, status updates, and reports for attorneys, supervisors, and management.
• Recommend and support process improvements that enhance collection efforts and client service.

Skills

Communication

Customer service

Analytical thinking

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Judgment and discretion

Independent work

Billing/collections software

Legal accounting systems knowledge

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Outlook

Accounting software

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Outlook

Accounting software

Job description

Williams Mullen is seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Collections Specialist to join our Accounting Department. This role is ideal for a professional who enjoys relationship-building, problem-solving, and collaborating with attorneys and business professionals to improve the Firm's financial performance.

As a Collections Specialist, you will play a key role in managing the Firm's accounts receivable portfolio, supporting cash flow initiatives, and partnering with attorneys and clients to resolve outstanding balances. This position also offers valuable exposure to multiple areas of law firm accounting, with opportunities for cross-training, professional development, and career growth within a collaborative and team-oriented environment.

What You'll Do

• Manage an assigned portfolio of client accounts and work proactively to reduce aged accounts receivable balances.
• Build strong relationships with attorneys, clients, and internal stakeholders to facilitate timely payment of outstanding invoices.
• Conduct collection calls, emails, and written correspondence in a professional and customer-focused manner.
• Monitor payment arrangements and ensure compliance with agreed-upon payment terms.
• Partner with billing attorneys and accounting staff to identify and resolve payment delays and collection challenges.
• Research and resolve billing discrepancies, account issues, unapplied cash, and payment-related concerns.
• Review and reconcile unallocated funds and trust balances for proper application or refund.
• Maintain detailed records of collection efforts and account activity.
• Prepare account analyses, status updates, and reports for attorneys, supervisors, and management.
• Recommend and support process improvements that enhance collection efforts and client service.

At Williams Mullen, we believe in developing talent and providing opportunities for continuous learning. This position offers:

• Cross-training in client accounting, billing, e-billing, cash receipts, and other accounting functions.
• Exposure to law firm financial operations and attorney-client relationship management.
• Opportunities to expand technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Professional development and advancement opportunities within the Accounting Department and broader administrative operations.

What We're Looking For

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's degree preferred; equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered.
• Minimum of three (3) years of collections, accounts receivable, billing, or client accounting experience required.
• Experience in a law firm, professional services, or financial services environment is strongly preferred.

Skills & Qualifications

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with attorneys, clients, and colleagues at all levels.
• Strong customer service and relationship-management skills.
• Proven analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Sound judgment, professionalism, and discretion when handling confidential information.
• Ability to work independently while contributing to a collaborative team environment.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and Outlook.
• Experience with accounting, billing, and collections software.
• Knowledge of legal accounting systems such as Aderant, Elite, ARCS, StarCollect, or similar platforms is a plus.

Why Williams Mullen?

At Williams Mullen, you'll join a collaborative and client-focused culture where employees are valued, supported, and encouraged to grow professionally. This role provides the opportunity to develop specialized expertise in law firm accounting while collaborating with experienced professionals in a respected and growing organization.

Williams Mullen is an equal opportunity employer committed to a culturally diverse workforce. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race (including characteristics commonly associate with race, including hairstyle), color, ethnicity, national origin, religion, creed, medical condition including pregnancy and childbirth, disability, genetic information, gender identity and expression, marriage or parental status, sexual orientation or Veteran’s status.