Automotive Controller

Job Title: Controller

Location:  Savannah, Georgia

Job Type:  Full-Time, Exempt

Position Summary

The Controller is responsible for overseeing the financial operations of a multi-location automotive group consisting of four dealerships. This position ensures the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting, maintains effective internal controls, and supports leadership with financial analysis and insights. The Controller manages daily accounting operations and leads the accounting team while ensuring compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and applicable laws and regulations.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee and manage all accounting operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and bank reconciliations
• Prepare and review monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements for all dealership locations
• Lead the month-end and year-end close processes, ensuring timeliness and accuracy
• Consolidate financial data across all four dealerships
• Analyze financial results and provide reports and recommendations to executive leadership
• Maintain and enforce internal controls to safeguard company assets
• Ensure accurate accounting for vehicle inventory, floorplan financing, and fixed assets
• Oversee manufacturer (OEM) financial statement submissions and reconciliations
• Monitor cash flow, budgets, and financial forecasts
• Ensure compliance with GAAP, federal/state/local regulations, and OEM requirements
• Coordinate external audits, tax preparation, and regulatory reporting
• Develop, implement, and standardize accounting policies and procedures across all locations
• Collaborate with General Managers and department leaders to support operational and financial goals
• Supervise, train, and evaluate accounting staff across multiple locations

Required Qualifications

• Minimum of 5–10 years of progressive accounting experience
• Minimum of 3 years of management or supervisory experience
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting requirements
• Experience in multi-entity or multi-location accounting environments
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and accounting systems

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
• CPA or CMA certification
• Prior automotive dealership accounting experience
• Experience with dealership management systems such as Dealertrack DMS, CDK or Reynolds & Reynolds

Competencies

• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail
• Effective leadership and team development skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Primarily office-based work environment
• Occasional travel between dealership locations may be required
• Prolonged periods of sitting, working at a computer, and using standard office equipment

Compensation and Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience
• Performance-based bonus opportunities
• Comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), and paid time off

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and make employment decisions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class in accordance with applicable laws.