Employee Spotlight: Tina Merryman, Accounts Receivable Clerk

This month, we shine the spotlight on Tina Merryman, our dedicated Accounts Receivable Clerk at Cardinal Home Center. A fixture of the Madison team for over 15 years, Tina brings a wealth of local knowledge, professional experience, and a deep-seated commitment to excellent customer service to her role.

A lifelong Madison native, Tina originally attended Tennessee Temple University for secretarial work before pursuing two years of nursing school. Prior to joining Cardinal, her career included time as a dental assistant and running her own successful cleaning business for 35 years. She initially started helping Cardinal by cleaning the store before transitioning to Accounts Receivable, where she has been a vital presence ever since.

A Day in the Numbers

Tina’s day is focused on keeping the financial wheels turning smoothly for our customers and our stores. Her typical duties include helping to count money, processing account credits, and managing complex spreadsheets to track store balances. A major part of her role is following up on collections, which she views as an opportunity to build relationships. “I like dealing with people and getting to know their stories,” she notes.

She has learned that the most important element of her job is customer service. “Sometimes conversations can get a little tense, especially when talking about the financial aspects of the business, but I have learned how to approach them and how best to approach situations to show them respect while also owing my duties as a Cardinal employee.”

A Few Surprises

Tina shared a humorous moment from her time at the store: she once triggered the alarm because she didn’t reach the code box quickly enough, which led to an unexpected police visit! And while you may know her cheerful smile at the counter, here’s a fun twist: she actually prefers to stay off camera and doesn’t enjoy having her picture taken.

Life Outside the Office

When Tina isn’t managing the books, her free time is completely dedicated to her family. As a proud mother of three daughters and grandmother to 10 grandkids, she spends most of her time attending their school events and enjoying their company. Tina says she is happiest when she is around family and when she is making friends with both customers and employees.