Final answer:
The person opening the mail should preferably be an accounts receivable clerk, as this role is responsible for managing incoming payments and is well-equipped to prepare a remittance advice when one is not provided. The correct option is D.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a customer fails to include a remittance advice with a payment, the best practice is generally for the person opening the mail to prepare one. The appropriate employee to perform this task would typically be an accounts receivable clerk. This position is most closely associated with managing incoming payments and has the necessary knowledge and access to financial records to accurately prepare a remittance advice.
In the anecdote provided, Noel's quick thinking in noticing an error in an equipment bill and reaching out to various contacts, including sending a Slack message and an email, effectively prevented a substantial overpayment. This highlights the importance of attention to detail and proper communication channels in financial operations to avoid costly mistakes.