If you’ve ever wondered who keeps MPW Industrial Services financially balanced, look no further than Lee Tompkins, Director of Credit & Collections. And yes, before you ask, he’s 6’10”—a fact he calls a “conversation starter.” But his professional stature is even more impressive than his physical height.
“I’m responsible for the entire Accounts Receivable for all six business units,” Tompkins said. He oversees the delicate balance of extending credit to customers while ensuring MPW gets paid. His team of seven handles everything from posting payments to collecting delinquent invoices and resolving customer disputes. Tompkins’ watchful eye on high-risk accounts is vital to protecting the company’s financial health.
Tompkins’ credit and collections career began in 1993 when he managed accounts across the Pacific Northwest. By 1995, he was a Senior Credit Manager for the West Coast. “That’s when I began to manage collections, cash application and deductions teams,” he said.
Tompkins joined MPW in 2015, bringing decades of experience and an uncanny ability to “read the tea leaves” of customer finances. He said a good portion of MPW’s customers are not publicly traded customers; many are privately held or backed by private equity firms. They can be challenging to read because quarterly financial statements are not readily available like those of publicly traded companies.
A credit and collection director’s day is a whirlwind of cash reports, team coaching, and customer negotiations. “No two days are the same,” Tompkins said. His role often requires collaboration with sales, operations, and legal teams, and sometimes courage. Tompkins recalls negotiating with a customer who casually pulled out an AK-47 mid-meeting. “He wasn’t threatening,” he said, “but I figured that was my cue to leave. We got paid, though!”
Tompkins thrives on the unpredictability and teamwork his role demands. “I’m fortunate to work with so many MPW employees who want to do the right thing for our customers,” he said. The variety keeps him sharp, and the collaboration fuels his passion for the job. “Talking about money is personal. You can be firm, but you can’t be a jerk. A customer can hear your smile through the phone or email.”
Tompkins’ advice for aspiring Credit & Collections pros is to master the art of persuasion and respect everyone at the table. “You have to enjoy selling the value of paying—and do it with a grin,” he said.
Outside of work, Tompkins enjoys the outdoors, golfing, and traveling with his wife. With their children grown, the couple is adjusting to life as empty nesters. “It’s odd, but we’re having fun,” he said.
Tompkins is more than a financial expert. He’s a problem-solver, a team player, and a leader who balances professionalism with humor. At MPW, he’s not just collecting payments—he’s building trust and setting the bar high for dedication and excellence.