Accounts Receivable LeadJob Description

An AR Lead typically supervises day-to-day operations and frontline staff, while an AR Manager has broader strategic responsibilities including policy development, budget management, and cross-departmental coordination. Leads focus on tactical execution; managers focus on strategic planning and departmental oversight.

Yes, if they have extensive AR experience (7+ years) and proven team leadership success. Many excellent AR Leads advance through hands-on experience, demonstrating strong technical skills, process improvement capabilities, and team management abilities that compensate for formal education requirements.

Prioritize collections experience first, as technical AR knowledge is harder to teach than leadership skills. An AR Lead must understand aging analysis, dispute resolution, and cash application before effectively managing others. Leadership abilities can be developed through training and mentorship programs.

Present a case study with aging reports, disputed invoices, and collection scenarios. Ask them to prioritize accounts, draft collection communications, and explain their escalation process. Strong candidates will demonstrate strategic thinking, customer diplomacy, and data-driven decision-making.

Watch for inability to explain DSO calculations, lack of experience with AR automation tools, poor communication skills, or no examples of process improvements. Candidates who blame customers for payment issues or show inflexibility may struggle with the diplomatic aspects of collections management.