A/R & Cost Analyst

The A/R & Cost Analyst at Toyota is responsible for managing manual billing, A/R transactions, and cost management. This includes reconciling payment discrepancies, collecting aging past due invoices, and applying monthly A/R payments using SAP. Additionally, the analyst prepares reports on outstanding A/R balances by customer and supports budget forecasting activities, making this role integral to the Accounting & Finance Department.

To qualify for the A/R & Cost Analyst position at Toyota, applicants are required to have a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, Economics, or a related field. One year of related experience in Accounting or Finance is also essential. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and SAP/BPC/Ariba applications is a must. Additional knowledge of PowerBI and supplier portals can be advantageous.

The A/R & Cost Analyst role supports Toyota’s Finance Department by ensuring accurate billing and effective management of accounts receivable. This position involves crucial tasks such as reconciling payments, analyzing data for discrepancies, and collaborating with teams to develop budgets and forecasts, thus contributing significantly to the department’s performance and financial accuracy.

Preferred skills for the A/R & Cost Analyst role at Toyota include excellent problem-solving capabilities, strong customer service orientation, and advanced analytic and organizational abilities. Being highly proficient in Microsoft Excel and having familiarity with SAP/BPC/Ariba, as well as excellent interpersonal skills, will help candidates thrive in this dynamic environment.

At Toyota, the A/R & Cost Analyst position offers numerous opportunities for professional growth. Employees have access to development programs, tuition reimbursement for further education, and a supportive culture that encourages career advancement. Joining Toyota means you’re part of a team that values continuous learning and provides ample resources to help you reach your full potential.

When answering this question, illustrate your relevant experience in handling accounts receivable by providing specific examples. Mention your familiarity with processes like manual billing, reconciling payment discrepancies, and using software like SAP to manage transactions. Show how your previous roles have prepared you to ensure accurate and timely processing of A/R.

In your response, highlight your organizational skills and the methods you use to prioritize tasks—such as using digital project management tools or time management strategies. Discuss a specific instance where your prioritization helped you meet a deadline or resolve an issue effectively, emphasizing its importance in the A/R role.

Describe a systematic approach to identifying and resolving discrepancies, starting from reviewing account records to directly contacting customers for clarification. Providing an example of a successful resolution you contributed to can effectively demonstrate your problem-solving skills relevant to the A/R position.

Discuss your proficiency level with Microsoft Excel by mentioning specific advanced functions you use—like VLOOKUP, pivot tables, or macros. Reinforce your expertise by sharing how these skills have helped you analyze financial data or streamline reporting processes in your previous roles.

Approach this question by demonstrating your customer service skills. Discuss how you would actively listen to the client's concerns, remain calm, and clearly explain billing processes. Sharing a specific example where you successfully turned around a difficult situation can showcase your interpersonal abilities.

Detail your hands-on experience with SAP or similar financial software. Explain how you've used it in previous roles for A/R management, data analysis, or reporting. If applicable, highlight any certifications or training courses that bolster your knowledge of these tools.

When responding, present a detailed instance from your past experience where you played a role in developing a budget forecast. Mention the research, data analyses, or teamwork involved and the positive outcomes that resulted from the accurate budgeting process.

Emphasize the importance of collaboration in finance roles. Provide an example of a project where teamwork was crucial for success, describing your contributions and how effective communication across various departments contributed to reaching a common goal.

Explain your proactive approach to professional development, such as attending webinars, pursuing certifications, or following industry news. Share any recent changes in accounting standards or technologies that you have adapted to and how they impacted your work.

Discuss your passion for finance and how it drives your career ambitions. Make it personal by explaining specific aspects of the field that excite you, such as tackling complex financial challenges or contributing to strategic decision-making, connecting it back to your desire to advance at Toyota.