Bankruptcy Specialist

Collections Specialist

Under the direction of the Manager, will be responsible for performing collection activities associated with serious delinquent member accounts, including Visa credit and debit cards, lines of credit, secured loans, personal loans, real estate loans, and home equity lines of credit that are involved in bankruptcy or legal proceedings. Reviews delinquent accounts, determines Credit Union position and, as circumstances indicate, directs and assists legal counsel in collection proceedings. Ensures that actions are properly documented, and records and files appropriately maintained. Ensures that the Credit Union's professional image is maintained.

Responsibilities

1. Effective and professional performance of collections' functions.

a. Utilizes effective human relations skills to present a positive Credit Union image in an already negative situation. Calms irate members and answers member questions and complaints relevant to Department functions.

b. Uses experience and knowledge of Credit Union loan policies, procedures, and documentation together with knowledge of Bankruptcy Law to review member files in order to establish validity of bankruptcy proceedings. Verifies existence of assets or evidence of fraud. c. Works toward prompt recovery of collateral through negotiations with bankruptcy attorney and / or court. d. Monitors loans to ensure bankrupt members have adequate insurance coverage to protect collateral and the Credit Union's interests. e. Directs and assists legal counsel in bankruptcy court proceedings. Appears in bankruptcy court actions as needed. f. Monitors all attorney and bankruptcy accounts to ensure documents and legal proceedings are filed and followed up by legal counsel in a timely manner. g. Recommends possible charge-offs. Researches and prepares the Write-off Summary Sheet. h. Performs collections' efforts in accordance with Credit Union policies and procedures and ensures they are legally compliant.

i. Determines Credit Union position in bankruptcy. Works to minimize losses through reaffirmation or non-dischargability.

j. Files or coordinates with attorney to file all Bankruptcy paperwork required.

2. Efficient administration of collections' activities.

a. Documents all collection actions taken, including telephone conversations, alternative financial arrangements, and correspondence.

3. Ensuring that professional business relations are established and maintained with Credit Union members.

a. Maintains the Credit Union's professional reputation throughout collections operations and in all contacts with members. b. Maintains confidentiality.

4. Establishing and maintaining effective communication and coordination with Credit Union personnel.

a. Assists area personnel as needed. b. Keeps management informed of activities, progress attained toward established objectives, and of any significant problems. c. Attends and participates in meetings as required.

5. Effective performance and administration of repossessed property functions.

a. Ensures that repossession functions and property dispositions are conducted in accordance with established policies, procedures and applicable laws and regulations. b. Directs, schedules, and coordinates all repossession activities. c. Evaluates all repairs and sale preparation expenses on repossessions. d. Evaluates and determines necessity for filing insurance claims on damaged repossessions.

e. Documents repossession actions taken.

f. Reviews contracts for possible refunds of service or Gap policies.g. Ensures the maintenance of appropriate related records and files. Prepares and updates repossession sale and inventory lists. h. Keeps management informed of repossession, progress attained toward established objectives, and of any significant problems.

6. Ensuring that professional business relationships are established and maintained with borrowers, buyers, the community, and with trade organizations.

a. Answers member inquiries and provides information as required. b. Ensures that requests, problems, or concerns are promptly addressed and effectively resolved.

c. Strong working relationship with both Credit Union and members Attorney.

7. Other related duties as required or assigned.

a. Stays informed of changes in collections' policies and procedures, trends in repossession practices, and related legal requirements.

b. Assists area personnel as needed.

c. Attends and participates in meetings as required.

d. Maintains cleanliness and security of work area, desks, and equipment.

e. Ensures that changes in legal requirements and government regulations are integrated into current practices.

Qualifications

Training / Education / Certification :

High school graduate or equivalent.

Required Knowledge :

Thorough knowledge of collection procedures, skip tracing, and related laws and regulations.

Thorough understanding of Credit Union loan products and policies. Knowledge of all loan contract terms and agreements.

Familiar with deposit programs and understands account ownership.

Familiar with collateral insurance used to protect security.

Basic understanding of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code. Familiar with all legal documents relating to collection actions.

Understanding of all court systems (District, Bankruptcy). Completely familiar with equity calculations, priority of liens, and redemption rights.

Experience Preferred :

Three to four years collection experience with a full-service financial institution.

Skills / Abilities :

Accuracy and thoroughness in work. Ability to manage projects.

Excellent communication, telephone, and public relations skills.

Ability to work well independently.

Professional attitude and appearance.

Ability to work well in stressful situations.

Ability to operate related computer applications, and other business equipment.