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If you ever see John Coppola leave a room, chances are it’s because he’s realized he’s the smartest person there and he knows that’s not the best way to learn. While he still loves working with his hands, John’s learned a lot in his 20 years in collections, which has helped him ascend to be the director of operations at his current company. Read on to learn more about John, how a medical issue jumpstarted his career in collections, and what he loves most about working in the mornings.
Name: John Coppola Jr.
Job Title: Director of Operations
Company: Active/Balanced Healthcare Receivables LLC
Length of time at current company: 11 years
Length of time in industry: Medical collections for 11 years and auto collections for nine years
How did you get your start in the industry?
It was an unintentional start because I had a recent surgery and couldn’t do construction anymore and my dad got me a job at his work for an automotive company working in their collections department.
What is your career highlight so far?
My career highlight so far has been being entrusted with the role of Director of Operations, where I’ve had the opportunity to help the company grow and make meaningful changes. Having the freedom to implement initiatives that drive both financial improvement and positive outcomes for our people has been especially rewarding.
When or how are you most productive?
I’m most productive early in the morning when I can focus with minimal distractions. Having my headphones on and my projects up on my scree helps me get into a strong workflow and stay organized.
Which industry professional do you admire most?
I admire anyone in our industry who embraces change and drives improvement, even when the environment is constantly shifting. Scott Brownlee from TCN stands out for me he was one of the first people I connected with at ACA events, and his advice and insights have been valuable. I also admire the CEO, VP, COO, and CIO of my company who have mentored me over the years and taught me so much about this industry.
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
One thing I do better than most is recognize that I’m never the smartest person in the room and I never want to be. I value learning from others, asking the right questions, and bringing people together to find the best solutions.
What do you like most about this industry?
I love the collaboration between agencies and the fact that we stick together to help each other. Sharing knowledge helps everyone grow and it’s an invaluable asset.
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
One thing I wish I could change about this industry is the level of oversight and regulation that can sometimes make it difficult to operate efficiently, even when our intentions are to help. I’d also like to change the stigma surrounding the word ‘collections.’ Many people don’t realize that we’re here to help consumers resolve their obligations and support our clients in maintaining healthy financial operations.I wish state laws were more consistent and straightforward; the constant changes can make compliance more challenging than it needs to be.
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
I would still be doing construction. I went to a trade school and learned masonry and did it right out of high school. I always loved working with my hands and building something that others would be able to enjoy in their home or business.
Describe a typical work day.
I’m very much a list person, so I start each day by reviewing my current projects and tasks, prioritizing what needs immediate attention. From there, I dive into my top priorities. Throughout the day, new items and meetings inevitably come up, often pulling me in different directions but I enjoy that fast pace and the variety. No two days are ever the same, which keeps things interesting and rewarding.
What is your guilty pleasure?
I’d say it is chocolate and coffee.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Surround yourself with people who challenge you, not just those who agree with you.
What are you currently reading?
“Dare to Lead” by Brene Brown
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
I love helping people and solving problems and on personal time I enjoy hiking and exploring nature.
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Shanny Piedrahita @ Gulf Coast Revenue Cycle Management
