Director, Finance

APL, one of the world’s leading ocean carriers, offers more than 90 weekly services and call ports in over 50 countries worldwide. We provide container transportation through our international shipping network which combines high-quality intermodal operations with advanced technology, equipment and e-commerce. APL is part of the CMA CGM Group, a leading worldwide shipping group founded in 1978 by Jacques R. Saade. CMA CGM has a global presence thanks to its numerous vessels calling various ports all over the world. CMA CGM has grown continuously, and has been constantly innovating to offer its clients new sea, land and logistics solutions. Headquartered in Marseilles, the Group has employees all over the world in hundreds of agencies. With over 160 years of experience, APL has the knowledge and the expertise to help our customers grow their businesses and negotiate in an increasingly complex and ever-changing global marketplace; whether that is venturing into new territories or growing in already developed markets.

Position Summary

This role oversees USWC revenue collections, manages union and non‑union staff, and reduces DSO, past‑due balances, and risk exposure. It drives strategies to accelerate collections, resolve disputes, and improve processes, including identifying root‑cause delays. Responsibilities include negotiating with customers on non‑payment, reporting collection performance and issues to management, ensuring regulatory and policy compliance, and partnering with Labor Relations to optimize team efficiency.

Functions and Duties

Manage and prioritize all collection efforts and risk‑mitigation activities across US business units, including setting departmental collection goals and negotiating with customers on non‑payment.

Develop and implement strategies, processes, tools, and credit policies that improve collections performance and daily operations.

Train and mentor non‑OCU and other staff members.

Serve as a business liaison to resolve discrepancies, partnering with Sales, Customer Service, Billing, Accounting, and Management to identify issues and direct solutions.

Prepare and communicate reports to Management on collections performance, delays, risks, and action plans.

Maintain performance dashboards for team members and provide recommendations to senior management to optimize results.

Engage legal teams to manage high‑risk accounts, reduce litigation exposure, and ensure compliance with company policies and state/federal regulations.

Oversee prioritization and negotiation of DDSM and Freight dispute resolution efforts.

Develop and implement strategies, processes, and tools to improve DDSM and Freight dispute resolution productivity and accelerate outcomes.

Report to executive management on dispute‑resolution issues, delays, risks, and action plans.

Collaborate with business partners on reinvoicing DDSM and Freight bills to ensure policy and regulatory compliance.

Develop and implement strategies to improve accounts‑payable processing.

Oversee inbound storage guarantees for LA/Long Beach terminals.

Develop and implement strategies to reduce Collective Bargaining Agreement violations within the Finance Department, partnering closely with Labor Relations and cross‑functional leaders.

Ensure the Finance Department is properly staffed and equipped to meet internal and external requirements.

Perform other related duties and projects as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

Extensive knowledge of collections analytics, operations, and related regulatory and operational risks.

Strong subject‑matter expertise with the ability to design and implement improved methods and processes.

Thorough understanding of collection laws, credit and collections systems, and workflow design.

Strong business acumen, including knowledge of service contracts, tariffs, and interpretation of bills of lading and shipping documents.

High accuracy, independence, and strong analytical skills with attention to detail.

Proven leadership and people‑management abilities, including experience managing unionized workforces and navigating CBAs.

Demonstrated success optimizing portfolio risk, reducing delinquency, and improving cash flow.

Comfortable driving change, making decisions, and recommending new approaches to strengthen collections and risk mitigation.

Strong interpersonal, communication, and influencing skills, working effectively with senior management and all organizational levels.

Strong time‑management and organizational skills; ability to meet strict deadlines.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.

Strong reporting and analytical capabilities with a continuous improvement mindset toward debt recovery.

Qualifications

Education

Required/Preferred

Education Level

Description

Required

Bachelor’s Degree

Bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, or a related field.

or equivalent combination of work experience and education

Preferred

Master’s Degree

Work Experience

Experience	Years of Experience	Description
General Experience	10-15 years
Industry Experience	5-10 years	Minimum of 8 years of knowledge of the shipping industry and respective duties/routines.

At CMA CGM, we are committed to fair and equitable compensation practices. The expected salary range for this position is $126,000 - $161,000 per year. The actual salary offered will be based on a variety of factors including, but not limited to, the candidate’s qualifications, skills, experience, and location.In addition to base salary, this position may be eligible for:

Performance-based bonuses
Comprehensive benefits, including health insurance, retirement plans, tuition repayment and paid time off
Professional development opportunities
We believe in transparency and equity and are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply.

The Company is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. Discrimination or harassment based upon any protected characteristics as defined by state or federal law is wholly inconsistent with our company values and will not be tolerated. Alternative application methods are available for individuals who are unable to use or access our online application system. For assistance, please contact us at Applicant_Assistance@apl.com.