Lynnette Houghton
Accounts Receivable Specialist
Kelowna,BC
Summary
Dynamic Accounts Receivables Specialist with a proven track record at BDO Canada LLP, enhancing cash flow through effective payment negotiations and collections strategies. Skilled in aging reports analysis and fostering strong client relations, I consistently exceeded departmental goals while delivering exceptional customer service and optimizing financial processes.
Overview
35
35
years of professional experience
Work History
Accounts Receivables Specialist
BDO Canada LLP
03.2019 - Current
- Reduced outstanding accounts receivable balances by diligently following up on overdue payments.
- Ensured the accuracy of customer records in internal systems by updating contact information, payment terms, and other relevant data as needed.
- Prepared and mailed invoices to customers, processed payments, and documented account updates.
- Monitored accounts to verify compliance with payment terms and schedules.
- Negotiated payment arrangements with customers to establish timely receipt of payments.
- Increased efficiency of the collections process by implementing new strategies and procedures for tracking delinquent accounts.
- Contributed to a positive work environment by working closely with colleagues across departments to ensure efficient information exchange and collaboration on financial matters.
- Enhanced cash flow by ensuring timely invoicing, payment application, and account reconciliation.
- Reviewed accounts on monthly basis to assess aging and pursue collection of funds.
- Followed up overdue payments and payment plans from clients to establish good cash flow.
- Improved customer satisfaction by providing prompt, courteous service when addressing billing concerns or inquiries.
- Strengthened relationships with clients by maintaining open communication channels regarding invoicing and payment schedules.
- Reconciled accounts receivable ledger to verify payments and resolve variances.
- Aided in the reduction of bad debt write-offs through diligent monitoring of aging reports and proactive collections efforts.
- Trained new team members on company policies, software systems, and effective accounts receivable practices for seamless integration into the role.
- Exceeded departmental goals for cash collection through persistence, professionalism, and excellent interpersonal skills when dealing with clients or customers alike.
- Optimized revenue recovery efforts by utilizing negotiation skills in resolving complex issues related to past due invoices or disputed charges.
- Provided valuable insights into potential areas of improvement within the accounts receivable department based on thorough analysis of trends data from historical transactions.
- Minimized bad debt write-offs, closely monitoring account statuses and initiating preemptive collection efforts.
- Enhanced team knowledge on best practices in accounts receivable management through regular training sessions.
- Ensured timely collection of payments by following up on outstanding invoices and negotiating with delinquent accounts.
Office Manager
Corix Water Products Limited Partnership
06.2001 - 12.2017
- Provided exceptional customer service when addressing client inquiries or concerns via phone calls or email correspondence.
- Maintained accurate financial records by reconciling accounts payable/receivable transactions regularly to ensure balanced budgets.
- Oversaw office inventory activities by ordering and requisitions and stocking and shipment receiving.
- Enhanced team productivity by delegating tasks effectively and overseeing daily workflow.
- Coordinated office events and meetings, ensuring timely execution and optimal scheduling for all participants.
- Streamlined office operations by implementing efficient filing systems and organizational strategies.
- Served as a liaison between upper management and staff members, facilitating open channels of communication to address concerns or issues promptly.
- Managed schedules for the service team covering 6 areas in the interior of BC
- Supported department heads in accomplishing their goals through diligent administrative assistance such as report generation and data entry.
- Performed month end billing and reporting. Handled payroll for 8 employees.
- Developed comprehensive policy manuals outlining procedures and guidelines, contributing to a well-organized workplace culture.
- Contributed to workplace safety by ensuring compliance with established emergency protocols.
- Facilitated positive work environment, addressing employee concerns promptly and fostering culture of mutual respect.
- Developed and enforced office policies that aligned with company values and regulatory requirements, maintaining compliance.
- Resolved office disputes swiftly and equitably, maintaining harmonious workplace.
- Conducted regular reviews of office procedures, identifying and implementing improvements for operational excellence.
- Enhanced office operational efficiency by streamlining filing systems, resulting in easier access to critical documents.
- Managed scheduling and coordination of all office meetings to ensure smooth operations and minimal conflicts.
- Oversaw office budget, ensuring all expenditures were within allocated funds and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
- Maintained positive customer relations by addressing problems head-on and implementing successful corrective actions.
- Maintained professional demeanor by staying calm when addressing unhappy or angry customers.
- Established team priorities, maintained schedules and monitored performance.
Client Service Representative
HSBC Bank
03.1990 - 06.2003
- Handled sensitive client information with discretion, ensuring confidentiality at all times.
- Delivered outstanding customer service by maintaining a professional demeanor during high-pressure situations.
- Managed incoming calls, providing prompt and accurate information to clients about products and services.
- Maintained accurate record-keeping with proactive attention to client information updates.
- Maintained detailed records of client interactions, allowing for better understanding of needs and preferences for future engagements.
- Participated in regular meetings with management to discuss performance goals, strategies for improvement, and ongoing challenges faced by the team.
- Helped large volume of customers every day with positive attitude and focus on customer satisfaction.
- Assisted clients with navigating online platforms and tools, enhancing their overall experience with the company''s resources.
- Held several different position General Ledger Clerk, Proof, Foreign exchange, Central Cash Cage, RRSP's, RRIF's.
- Bonded for codes to main vault.
Education
No Degree - Computer Courses Access Levels 1-3
Okanagan College
Kelowna, NoneNo Degree - Office Administration
Okanagan College
Vernon06-1989
No Degree - General Studies
Okanagan College
Vernon, BC04-1988
GED -
Vernon Senior Secondary School
Vernon, BC06-1987
Skills
- Microsoft Excel
- Accounts receivable
- Aging reports analysis
- Accurate payment posting
- Account reconciliation
- Credit and collections
- Payment negotiations
- Strong client relations skills
- Customer service support
- Financial records and reporting
- Collections
- Dispute resolution
- Debt collection
Timeline
Accounts Receivables Specialist
BDO Canada LLP
03.2019 - Current
Office Manager
Corix Water Products Limited Partnership
06.2001 - 12.2017
Client Service Representative
HSBC Bank
03.1990 - 06.2003
No Degree - Computer Courses Access Levels 1-3
Okanagan College
No Degree - Office Administration
Okanagan College
No Degree - General Studies
Okanagan College
GED -
Vernon Senior Secondary School
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