The “Getting to Know” series is sponsored by Arbeit. Arbeit is a powerful, and easy to use communications platform that empowers businesses to reach more consumers. Innovative by nature, we are constantly listening to and understanding the businesses we partner with and developing long term industry relationships that allow us to be proactive in anticipating industry needs.
It is incredibly energizing to come across someone who has a tremendous passion for what he or she does, and Debra Roznos is overflowing with passion for the collection industry. She has truly embraced the essence of what being a collector means, and her dedication to her employees and her mission is inspiring. Read on to learn more about Debra, why she sees problems as opportunities, and the deliciousness of her side hustle.
Name: Debra Roznos. Most people call me Deb or Debbie, but my favorite people call me Mom and Grandma!
Company: Oliver Adjustment Company, Inc., D/B/A: OAC
Job Title: Vice President
Length of time at current position: 11 years
Length of time in industry: 30+ years
How did you get your start in the industry?
I worked with Medical billing for several clinics and hospitals before I was hired as a collector by Med-Health (Collection Agency formerly owned by Children’s Hospital of WI).
What is your career highlight so far?
The final purchase of Oliver Adjustment Company, Inc., D/B/A OAC this year.
When or how are you most productive?
When I am at the office engaging with the employees. This is my HAPPY PLACE!
Which industry professional do you admire most?
Fred Quandt, the past president and previous owner of OAC, who gave me an opportunity to own OAC. He is an incredibly smart, funny, and successful dude!
What is one thing you do better than everyone else?
I can be an extremely creative thinker, and have a unique ability to find opportunities in challenges. When things get tough I take it as a challenge to think of ways to make improvements, create resolutions or to improve processes. I believe that everything truly happens for a reason and that even unpleasant tough spells can be made beautiful with a little time, sleep and prayer.
What do you like most about this industry?
The ability to help and educate the consumers. I believe most consumers don’t want their bills in collections; it’s circumstances that place them there. If you can determine the circumstance you can resolve the bill.
What is one thing you wish you could change about this industry?
Uniform state licensing and the negative perception of the collection industry (I know these two things are at the top of my list).
If you weren’t in this industry, what would you be doing?
Attorney. Now that I have done collections it would definitely be one that would represent collection agencies.
Describe a typical work day.
Off to OAC by 7am, planning directing and overseeing daily operations. Oftentimes, I can be heard answering consumer calls and assisting staff in the daily operations.
What is your guilty pleasure?
Double-stuffed Oreos, a cold glass of milk, and watching an episode of “House Hunters” or “Criminal Minds”.
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What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Be yourself, treat others with respect, and you need to work hard for what you want (this is from my Dad — the man of exceptional work ethic!).
What are you currently reading?
The Daily Digest from Mike Gibb, InsideARM Updates, and ACA Briefings all day, non-stop. They are the best readings out there in our industry. These readings have been an outstanding resource especially now with COVID-19 going on.
What is one fact you’d like everyone in the industry to know about you?
In addition to my passion for collections, I also own and operate a 250-acre farm with my husband, Brett. We run a cow/calf operation. Love that Beef!
Who else would you like to see answer these questions?
Joe Leventhal with Professional Collectors Corporation.
The “Getting to Know” series is sponsored by Arbeit. Arbeit is a powerful, and easy to use communications platform that empowers businesses to reach more consumers. Innovative by nature, we are constantly listening to and understanding the businesses we partner with and developing long term industry relationships that allow us to be proactive in anticipating industry needs.
