Automotive Controller - Baltimore, MD

Element Partners
  • Baltimore, Maryland
    20 days ago

    Job Description

    Industry: Automotive Retail

    New Ownership. Massive Momentum. Unlimited Potential.

    We recently acquired a high-performing import dealership, and we are laying the groundwork to take it to the next level. If you are a high-octane Automotive Controller who thrives on building scalable processes, optimizing cash flow, and leading a high-energy business office through a growth phase, this is your seat at the table.

    About the Opportunity
    We are seeking an experienced, strategic, and hands-on Automotive Controller to oversee all financial operations, internal controls, and business office administration for our newly acquired import dealership.

    With fresh capital, an aggressive growth strategy, and a powerhouse import brand, we need a financial leader who does more than just balance the books. You will be a vital strategic partner to the General Manager and executive leadership team, helping drive profitability, streamline operations, and build a world-class financial department.

    Key Responsibilities
    Financial Leadership & Strategy
    Oversee all accounting operations, including monthly close, OEM financial statement preparation, cash management, and daily operational reports.

    Partner directly with the General Manager to analyze sales, service, and F&I performance to identify profit leaks and growth opportunities.

    Manage corporate cash flow, forecasting, working capital, and capital expenditure planning post-acquisition.

    Dealership Operations & Controls
    Establish, audit, and enforce robust internal financial controls and risk management protocols across all departments.

    Direct floor plan management, vehicle titling, contracts-in-transit (CIT), accounts payable/receivable, and payroll.

    Audit deal jackets to ensure 100% compliance with federal, state, and lender regulations.

    Team Leadership & System Optimization
    Lead, mentor, and elevate the business office staff, fostering a collaborative, accountable, and high-performance culture.

    Evaluate, streamline, and modernize financial processes and DMS workflows to support multi-store scalability.

    Serve as the primary liaison for external auditors, tax consultants, and OEM representatives.

    What You Bring to the Table
    Experience: 3–5+ years as an Automotive Controller or Assistant Controller at a franchised auto dealership.

    Systems Expertise: Deep proficiency with major Automotive DMS platforms (e.g., CDK Global, Dealertrack, Reynolds & Reynolds).

    OEM Knowledge: Strong familiarity with import OEM financial reporting and incentive structures.

    Financial Acumen: Comprehensive understanding of GAAP, dealership taxation, floor plan management, and complex automotive accounting.

    Leadership Style: Decisive, approachable, and proactive. You know how to guide a team through transition and growth smoothly.

    Education/Certification: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration preferred (CPA is a strong bonus).

    What We Offer
    Competitive Compensation: Top-tier base salary plus performance-based incentives ($140,000 – $160,000+ DOE).

    Full Benefits Package: Health, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability Insurance.

    Retirement: Matching 401(k) plan.

    Perks: Demo vehicle allowance / company lease program, paid time off, and continuous professional development.

    Career Path: Real room for advancement as our dealership group continues to acquire new locations.

    Numbers & Facts

    LocationBaltimore, Maryland
    Websitewww.elementrecruiters.com

    Skills

    • Accountingunmatched
    • Accounting Closeunmatched
    • Accounts Payableunmatched
    • Accounts Receivableunmatched
    • Administrative Skillsunmatched
    • Automotive Managementunmatched
    • Automotive Salesunmatched
    • Business Administrationunmatched
    • Capital Expenditure (CAPEX)unmatched
    • Cash Flowunmatched
    • Cash Managementunmatched
    • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)unmatched
    • Channel Strategiesunmatched
    • External Auditunmatched
    • Federal Laws and Regulationsunmatched
    • Financeunmatched
    • Financial Controlunmatched
    • Financial Managementunmatched
    • Financial Operationsunmatched
    • Financial Reportingunmatched
    • Financial Risk Managementunmatched
    • Financial Statementsunmatched
    • Forecastingunmatched
    • Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP)unmatched
    • Leadershipunmatched
    • Loan Regulationsunmatched
    • Maintain Complianceunmatched
    • Mentoringunmatched
    • OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer)unmatched
    • Process Improvementunmatched
    • Profit & Lossunmatched
    • Risk Managementunmatched
    • Sales Analysisunmatched
    • Scalable System Developmentunmatched
    • State Laws and Regulationsunmatched
    • Tax Planningunmatched
    • Team Lead/Managerunmatched
    • Team Playerunmatched

    Be found by employers

    5,500+ employers search our resume database daily. Add yours to get found by recruiters looking for candidates like you.

    Level up your application

    Professional resume templates

    Browse dozens of recruiter approved resume templates, layouts and formats. Choose your favorite and make it your own in minutes.

    Free resume templates

    Free resume builder

    Improve your existing resume or start from scratch and create a standout, ATS-friendly resume. Add job-specific content, download and apply.

    Free resume builder