A company's success hinges on its understanding and participation within the industry it serves. The Bessenbacher Co. while small in numbers has long influenced the credit and collection services industry because our leaders have extensive industry experience. They are involved in various associations, as well as talking and listening to credit professionals across industries at educational meetings and conventions from different regions in the U.S.
Jim Bessenbacher, Sr., Chairman
Jim Sr. began working for the company in 1951, and from 1970 - 1999, he served as our president. One of his more important accomplishments at The Bessenbacher Co. was to recognize the need for professional and quality standards across the commercial collections industry. It was one of the reasons he committed the company to becoming one of the founding members of the International Association of Commercial Collectors, Inc. While he turned the reins over to his son, Jim Jr., in 1999, Jim Sr. is still involved daily in a number of aspects of the company.
Jim Bessenbacher, Jr., President
In 1999, Jim Jr. was named the company's president. For those familiar with The Bessenbacher Co., this was not surprising. Since college, and even before, Jim was learning more about the company and how it could do more for its customers. He quickly understood that the emerging technology of the Internet and its supporting applications could transform a credit department for the better. He was the force behind the development of InetCreditExchange, an industry-leading online solution that among many things allows credit professionals participating in Industry Credit Groups to pull reports about mutual customers to help make better credit decisions. Jim has also served two terms as President of the International Association of Commercial Collectors, Inc.
Bill Croyle, CCE, Vice President
After nearly 30 years as a credit professional, Bill was looking for a new challenge in 1996 when he joined The Bessenbacher Co. With his experience and NACM Certification, Bill provides real-world insight into the many issues facing today's credit professionals and makes sure that the innovative solutions being developed solve real-world problems. When NACM Heartland, a regional affiliate headquartered in Des Moines, Iowa, sought to improve their services in the late 1990's, Bill saw the opportunity to support credit professionals and work on their issues and concerns. He currently serves as Chief Operating Officer of NACM Heartland, and represents the affiliate at national NACM meetings.
Steve Bessenbacher, Treasurer
After graduating from Rockhurst University with a B.A. in Philosophy, Steve joined The Bessenbacher Co. as Treasurer. In 2001, The Bessenbacher Co. rebuilt its collection software in order to take advantage of the latest in technology. Steve was the lead business analyst behind this rebuild and today that program is integrated with ICE to offer clients a flexible, cost effective collection solution. The Bessenbacher Co. is certified through the International Association of Commercial Collectors, Inc. (IACC). Steve completed the certification process for the company and continues today in keeping The Bessenbacher Co.'s status current with the IACC.