Andrew Robinson grew up wanting to look under rocks. Some would say he’s still doing that today. Still a collector of minerals, Andrew may have given up on his career as a geologist, but his career in debt collection has been just as rewarding. You’ll definitely be able to catch this early riser before the sun goes up most days, but be sure to catch him before he hits the wall later. Read on to learn more about Andrew and why his happiness is driven by a purpose that is bigger than money.
Name: Andrew Robinson
Company: Associated Credit Services, Inc. (ACS)
Length of time at current company: 31 years
Length of time in industry: 33 years
How did you get your start in the industry?
When I got out of college in 1985, I took the first job I could find – as a bill collector for Financial Collection Agencies International.
What is your career highlight so far?
The acquisition of ACS from its founders.
When or how are you most productive?
I’m up early, around 5am every day. I must admit that by 5pm I start to hit the wall, which is good. Everyone needs quality family time!
Which industry professional do you admire most?
I’ve met so many fantastic, bright, energetic people. It’s impossible to pick out one I admire most. I will say that Andy Schorn, Brenda Meli, Nick Penfield, Jim Graves, and Madora Day have all had a significant impact on my career.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
I doubt I do anything better than EVERYONE else. What I think I do well is communicate with my staff, and clients in an open, honest way. I try to have a positive impact on everyone I do business with and always keep my word and fulfill my commitments. A little humor along the way doesn’t hurt either!
What do you like most about this industry?
I like the challenge. Our industry has become incredibly complex. The challenge of managing a compliant company, meeting all regulatory requirements, and still out-performing competitors is monumental.
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
I would love to see national regulations – not state by state, and city by city. One licensing authority and regulators who protect us as well as consumers.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
I’d be a geologist. That’s what I originally when to school to become, but I changed to business management after two years. I’m still an avid mineral collector.
Describe a typical work day.
Paperwork, meetings, conference calls, emails, more meetings and hopefully a break along the way to stretch the legs!
What is your guilty pleasure?
Blues music and a good steak!
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Not necessarily advice, but one of my favorite quotes is from Warren Buffett and has served me well: “Look for three things in a person: intelligence, energy and integrity. If they don’t have the last one, don’t even bother.”
What are you currently reading?
I Am Pilgrim
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
I am driven first and foremost by happy clients and happy employees. The almighty dollar is not my number one concern.
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Andy Schorn, Nick Penfield
