Automotive Dealership Group Controller

About the role

We are seeking an experienced, detail-oriented Controller to oversee the accounting and financial operations of our multi-location automotive dealership group. This individual will be responsible for maintaining accurate financial records, managing accounting personnel, ensuring compliance with manufacturer and regulatory requirements, and providing timely financial reporting and analysis to ownership and executive leadership.

The ideal candidate has a strong background in automotive dealership accounting, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to establish consistent processes and financial controls across multiple dealership locations.

Responsibilities

Financial Management & Reporting

• Oversee the accounting and financial reporting functions for multiple dealership locations.
• Ensure accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and year-end financial statements.
• Review dealership financial statements, balance sheets, income statements, and departmental profitability.
• Analyze financial performance, identify trends, and communicate opportunities for improved profitability.
• Prepare budgets, forecasts, and financial projections for ownership and executive management.
• Monitor cash flow, working capital, expenses, and overall financial performance.

Accounting Operations

• Oversee all accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, payroll, and bank reconciliations.
• Ensure accurate posting and reconciliation of vehicle inventory, floorplan accounts, vehicle sales, and cost of sales.
• Oversee new and used vehicle accounting, parts and service accounting, warranty receivables, and manufacturer receivables.
• Review schedules and reconcile balance sheet accounts to ensure accuracy and timely resolution of outstanding items.
• Oversee month-end and year-end closing processes across all locations.
• Maintain consistent accounting procedures and reporting standards throughout the dealership group.

Internal Controls & Compliance

• Establish and maintain effective internal controls, accounting policies, and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with applicable accounting standards, tax requirements, and regulatory obligations.
• Monitor adherence to dealership policies, manufacturer requirements, and lender or floorplan reporting requirements.
• Coordinate with external accountants, auditors, tax professionals, financial institutions, and other business partners.
• Identify and address financial risks, accounting discrepancies, and opportunities to strengthen controls.

Leadership & Multi-Location Oversight

• Lead, develop, and support accounting managers, office managers, and dealership accounting personnel.
• Establish clear expectations, performance standards, and accountability across all locations.
• Standardize accounting processes, reporting deadlines, and reconciliation procedures.
• Partner with General Managers, department managers, and executive leadership to improve financial results.
• Conduct periodic reviews of dealership financial performance and follow up on outstanding issues.
• Support new dealership acquisitions, integrations, system implementations, and process improvements as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience in automotive retail required.
• Prior experience as a dealership Controller or multi-store accounting leader required.
• Strong understanding of dealership financial statements, inventory accounting, floorplan financing, and departmental financial reporting.
• Experience overseeing accounting operations across multiple locations.
• Proficiency with dealership management systems (DMS), accounting software, and Microsoft Excel.
• Strong analytical, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, manage deadlines, and maintain accuracy in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of integrity, confidentiality, and professional judgment.