Automotive Dealership Assistant Controller
Position Summary
The Assistant Controller supports the Corporate Controller in managing the dealership's accounting and financial reporting functions and will play an important role in supporting and developing the central accounting office in Greenville. This position is responsible for ensuring financial accuracy, maintaining compliance with manufacturer and regulatory requirements, overseeing accounting staff, and assisting with month-end closing, budgeting, and internal controls. The ideal candidate possesses strong dealership accounting experience, attention to detail, and a thorough understanding of automotive retail operations.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Financial Management & Reporting
- Assist with preparation and analysis of monthly financial statements.
- Support month-end and year-end closing processes.
- Review general ledger accounts and ensure proper account reconciliations.
- Ensure timely and accurate submission of manufacturer financial statements.
Accounting Operations
- Supervise daily accounting functions, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash receipts, and payroll processing.
- Review journal entries and account adjustments for accuracy.
- Reconcile bank accounts, floorplan accounts, and other balance sheet accounts.
- Maintain schedules for prepaid expenses, fixed assets, and accrued liabilities.
- Assist with sales tax, property tax, and other tax filings.
Compliance & Internal Controls
- Ensure compliance with company policies, accounting standards, and regulatory requirements.
- Assist in developing and maintaining internal controls to safeguard dealership assets.
- Support internal and external audits by preparing schedules, records, and supporting documentation and responding to audit requests as needed.
- Monitor compliance with manufacturer policies and financial reporting standards.
- Assist in identifying and implementing process improvements.
Leadership & Team Development
- Supervise and support accounting team members.
- Assist with hiring, training, and evaluating accounting staff.
- Foster a collaborative and accountable work environment.
- Serve as a resource for department managers regarding financial and accounting matters.
Dealership Operations Support
- Collaborate with Sales, Service, Parts, and F&I departments to ensure accurate financial reporting.
- Review deal postings and vehicle inventory accounting.
- Monitor contracts-in-transit and assist with resolving funding issues.
- Support inventory reconciliations and floorplan management.
- Assist with special projects and operational analyses as assigned.
Qualifications
Education
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field preferred.
Experience
- 3+ years of accounting experience, preferably within an automotive dealership environment.
- Experience with dealership management system – CDK.
- Supervisory experience preferred.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Strong understanding of dealership accounting practices and financial statements.
- Knowledge of automotive inventory accounting and floorplan financing.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting software.
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to sit for extended periods while working at a computer.
- Occasional lifting of office materials up to 20 pounds.
- Ability to move throughout dealership facilities as needed.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary based on experience.
- Health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) with company match.
- Paid time off and holidays.
- Professional development and advancement opportunities.
Reports To: Corporate Controller
FLSA Status: Exempt
Department: Accounting/Finance
This role is ideal for an experienced dealership accountant seeking growth into a Controller position while contributing to the financial success of a high-performing automotive dealership