I am thrilled to announce that the Getting to Know series will be sponsored by TEC Services Group in 2024. TEC Services Group is the leading technology and professional services firm in the credit collections industry offering both leading industry solutions along with unrivaled, unbiased, and experienced support. TEC is now extending its services by offering proven, industry-leading technology solutions alongside of our Professional Services to help Clients feel confident in their technology decisions. Learn more at ww.tecsg.com.
Is it any surprise to learn that someone the skills learned while spending five years in a classroom teaching kids would translate to helping a company in the accounts receivable management industry stay compliant? It was in the classroom that Madison Vanderlip discovered her love of creating systems and working through projects and she has found the perfect fit at Commercial Services Group. Read on to learn more about Madison, what she will likely sell if she ever opens up a stall at a farmer’s market, and why she is less afraid of speaking up these days.
Name: Madison Vanderlip
Job Title: Project Manager
Company: Commercial Services Group, Inc.
Length of time at current company: 2 years
Length of time in industry: 2 years
How did you get your start in the industry?
Initially, I began my career in education, working five years as a classroom teacher. However, I reached a point where I felt ready for a new career path. Throughout my time as an educator, I discovered my passion for creating efficient systems within the classroom and navigating through project cycles. As I explored a new career, I stumbled upon project management, which seemed like a natural fit. I was fortunate to find a position with CSG, where I could apply my background in education and my love of systems.
What is your career highlight so far?
I recently worked on a project to update our website and align it with modern standards. It was a long, creative journey and I’m so proud of the outcome we created. Creating a professional, modern website was important to management and we hoped to create a site that consumers would trust and that communicated our position to prospective clients. There has been so much discussion around emerging technology and the need to embrace new forms of communication and I was happy to lay the groundwork for CSG as we continue to explore other ways to add on to the website.
When or how are you most productive?
My favorite time to do solo work is early in the morning before everyone else is up, listening to music or catching up on webinars. However, I feel most productive when collaborating on tasks — I find myself more creative and inspired when working with others. Collaborative energy is a strong motivator and helps me think outside of the box when I’m feeling stuck.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
Very early on in my position, I attended a webinar with Rozanne Andersen as a guest speaker. Her dedication to promoting integrity and ensuring regulatory adherence left a lasting impression on me. Her insights not only helped me understand compliance on a deeper level but were also crucial to my learning at the start of my job. I take every chance I get to hear her perspective!
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
Thinking outside the box. While compliance often involves following established rules and regulations, it also requires creativity to navigate complex situations. By being open to innovative approaches and staying informed about emerging trends, I’m able to find creative solutions to compliance needs and ensure our organization stays ahead of the curve. This also helps when working on projects to handle issues that might arise as we work through the project cycle.
What do you like most about this industry?
Everything compliance! To me, compliance serves as the backbone of organizational integrity. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of a profession that prioritizes ethical conduct, risk mitigation, and regulatory adherence (as challenging as that can be sometimes). I’ve recently obtained my CCCO designation from ACA so I’m excited to dig deeper into compliance during my day-to-day.
The Getting to Know Series is Sponsored By:
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
Its perception. As I’m sure we’re all aware, the industry often carries a negative stigma and I wish we could shift the narrative.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
If I could do anything I wanted, I would likely be pursuing my love of architecture. I’ve always been fascinated by the process of designing beautiful, functional spaces for homes and buildings. I’m constantly scouring Pinterest or Architectural Digest for inspiration and wish I could bring some of my ideas to life!
Describe a typical work day.
My mornings revolve around setting up my plan for the day, catching up on emails, and reviewing files. Midday, I work on project action items, communications with clients, and attending any webinars or meetings for the day. Then in the late afternoon, I finish up any outstanding “have to’s”, and double-check my to-do list.
What is your guilty pleasure?
My current guilty pleasure is watching “This is Us” — I’m obsessed!
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Some of the best advice I’ve ever received came from my high school coach. He once told me that I had immense leadership potential, but I needed to step up and be more assertive, not be afraid to make my voice heard. As someone who tends to be reserved, his words stuck with me. I constantly remind myself of his advice to be bolder, especially in a field where effective communication and assertiveness are crucial.
What are you currently reading?
I am currently reading “Unreasonable Hospitality” by Will Guidara. CSG prides itself on providing exceptional customer service and I’m looking for ways to expand my understanding through a new lens.
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
I love baking and can make an amazing croissant from scratch. I’ve always wanted to put my baking skills to use and open a stand at a Farmer’s Market or take custom orders — maybe one day!
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Linda Wise at Commercial Services Group.
The Getting to Know series is sponsored by TEC Services Group. TEC Services Group is the leading technology and professional services firm in the credit collections industry offering both leading industry solutions along with unrivaled, unbiased, and experienced support. TEC is now extending its services by offering proven, industry-leading technology solutions alongside of our Professional Services to help Clients feel confident in their technology decisions. Learn more at ww.tecsg.com
