Dealership Controller

An automotive Dealership Controller located in the Chicagoland area with two separate locations. The Dealership Controller will direct all day-to-day accounting, financial reporting, and controls. The Dealership Controller will oversee the office staff, manage cash flow, and ensure profitability across the sales, service, and parts departments. The dealership is a third generation run organization and is expanding into other markets into the future.

$125,000 to $175,000 per year (depending on experience)

What will you do as a Dealership Controller:

• Financial Management: Oversee the preparation of accurate financial statements, operating reports, and tax documents in accordance with dealership standards.
• Team Leadership: Supervise, train, and mentor the accounting and administrative team (including AP/AR, titling, and billing clerks).
• Dealership Operations: Work directly with the General Manager and department heads to monitor department profitability, control expenses, and manage inventory valuations.
• Internal Controls: Implement and maintain robust internal controls to safeguard dealership assets, ensuring compliance with both corporate policies and local regulations.
• Vendor & OEM Relations: Reconcile factory accounts, manage manufacturer warranties, and oversee relationships with financial institutions.
• Manage a team of accountants and operational accountants (AP and AR)

What we are seeking in a Dealership Controller:

• Proven experience as an Accounting Manager or Controller at a franchised auto dealership.
• Strong mastery of Dealer Management Systems (DMS) such as CDK, Reynolds & Reynolds, or Dealertrack.
• Deep understanding of automotive metrics (e.g., floor plan interest, DOC analysis, gross profit, and aging schedules).
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and team-building skills.
• Seeking at least 3 years’ experience in accounting from an auto dealership OR public accounting experience with auditing or preparing financials for auto dealers.

Reasons to work here as a Dealership Controller:

• Over 50 years in the business
• 3rd generation run organization
• Free medical and dental coverage for the employee
• Growing organization – expanding into a 3rd market shortly