AP Utilities Coordinator

As an AP Utilities Coordinator at Lithia & Driveway, your main responsibilities include managing utility account setups and closures, maintaining an accurate utility spend database, auditing utility invoices, and ensuring timely payments to prevent service interruptions. You'll also handle vendor relationships and provide support to internal teams, which means your role is crucial in keeping our operations running smoothly.

To qualify for the Utilities Coordinator position at Lithia & Driveway, you should ideally have experience in utility account management or accounts payable processes. A high school diploma or equivalent is required, along with strong communication skills, attention to detail, and proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel. Problem-solving abilities and effective time management skills will also be beneficial for success in this role.

Lithia & Driveway offers a range of industry-best benefits for its AP Utilities Coordinator employees, including competitive pay, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans, paid holidays, and a robust 401(k) retirement plan. Additionally, employees can take advantage of wellness programs and professional development through the Lithia Learning Center, ensuring a well-rounded work experience.

A typical workday for the Utilities Coordinator at Lithia & Driveway involves monitoring and managing all utility accounts, auditing invoices for correct billing, and liaising with utility service providers. You may also spend time reconciling accounts and ensuring that internal teams receive the customer support they need. Your day is likely to be busy, with new challenges that keep your problem-solving skills sharp!

Essential skills for being a successful Utilities Coordinator at Lithia & Driveway include high attention to detail, strong organizational and time management abilities, excellent verbal and written communication skills, and proficiency in Microsoft Office programs. Being able to work independently while also engaging effectively with teams is crucial, along with a proactive approach to problem-solving in the fast-paced environment.

When answering this question, share specific examples of how you've managed utility accounts in the past, emphasizing your attention to detail and diligence in preventing service disruptions. Mention any software or tools you used, the scale of accounts handled, and how your actions positively impacted the organization.

To ensure accuracy, you might describe your systematic approach to auditing invoices, including cross-checking charges against contracts, maintaining detailed records, and using Excel functions for data validation. Highlight your attention to detail and your methods for identifying discrepancies.

Discuss your proactive communication techniques, either through regular check-ins with vendors or promptly addressing any issues that arise. Emphasize your ability to foster a collaborative environment that enhances long-term partnerships.

You should explain your methodical approach in dealing with these situations, such as conducting thorough audits, cross-referencing service agreements, and documenting your findings. Mention how you would communicate these issues to both the vendor and relevant internal departments to seek resolution.

List specific software, such as Microsoft Excel and accounting software, and mention how you utilize various tools to streamline processes, analyze data, and maintain organized records. If you've implemented any tools or practices that improved efficiency, share those examples.

Share a real-life scenario where you faced a complication with a utility provider, detailing the challenges and the steps you took to resolve the situation. Highlight your communication skills and your ability to remain calm under pressure.

Explain your prioritization strategy, such as assessing urgency based on payment deadlines, account size or significance, and service disruptions. Highlight any tools or systems you use to manage your tasks effectively, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.

Discuss the importance of attention to detail and clear communication, as these elements are crucial for accurate billing and maintaining supplier relationships. You might also mention the ability to adapt to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Explain that you always review company policies regarding payment processes and ensure all invoices are accurately audited and aligned with these policies before processing any payments. Emphasize your thoroughness in documentation and adherence to compliance standards.

This is an opportunity to showcase your understanding of Lithia & Driveway's values and mission. Express your enthusiasm for contributing to a company that prioritizes customer service and operational efficiency in its dealership network, reinforcing your alignment with the company culture.