Automotive Controller

Kahlig Auto Group•San Antonio, TX

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Kahlig Automotive Group is hiring a Controller to lead the store’s accounting office and serve as the General Manager’s financial business partner. The Controller owns the store’s month-end close, financial statements, cash management, and internal controls, and translates financial results into clear direction for department managers to help grow gross profit and control expenses. The position reports to the General Manager and CFO and supervises store accounting office staff, including billing, titles, accounts payable, payroll, and accounts receivable. This is a full-time, on-site, office-based role in San Antonio, Texas. The Controller is responsible for accurate and timely financial reporting, dealership accounting compliance, cash and asset management, and developing the accounting office team. The role partners with store leadership on budgets, forecasts, financial performance, and improvement plans. Work conditions include extended periods of computer work, regular walking within the dealership or affiliated office buildings, and occasional lifting of up to 20 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions. Kahlig Auto Group is an automotive retailer comprised of multiple dealerships in South Texas. The company describes its culture as welcoming and positive, with opportunities to grow, and emphasizes customer satisfaction across sales, service, and vehicle ownership. It is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Requirements

At least 5 years of franchised dealership accounting experience, including at least 2 years supervising accounting staff.
Ability to complete a dealership month-end close and produce the manufacturer financial statement.
Strong knowledge of dealership schedules, controlled accounts, the general ledger, and bank, floorplan, and manufacturer reconciliations.
Working knowledge of Texas sales and motor vehicle tax returns.
Advanced Excel skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office.
Working knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
High character and a strong work ethic.
Ability to explain technical financial information in plain terms to managers who are not accountants.
Accuracy and attention to detail while meeting fixed monthly deadlines.
Analytical ability to identify trends, variances, and statement problems before they grow.
Ability to build working relationships with the General Manager, department managers, and corporate accounting.
Ability to lead, coach, and hold staff accountable.
Ability to manage several priorities at once in a fast-paced store.
Ability to handle confidential information with discretion and integrity.

Nice To Haves

Prior Controller or Assistant Controller experience at a franchised dealership.
Bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
Experience with CDK.

Responsibilities

Close the books accurately and on schedule each month.
Prepare and submit the manufacturer financial statement and internal reports by required deadlines.
Reconcile all balance sheet accounts monthly, including bank, floorplan, manufacturer receivables, contracts in transit, and warranty accounts; promptly clear reconciling items.
Review accounting schedules monthly and correct aged or misposted items.
Prepare accurate operating reports needed by management.
Interpret financial statements and explain trends, variances, and cash needs to the General Manager.
Help department managers understand their departmental P&Ls and develop action plans to improve gross profit and expense control.
Support the annual budget and monthly forecasts, and track performance against them.
Partner with the General Manager to grow revenue, reduce expenses, and meet or exceed budget.
Manage daily cash, deposits, and cash-flow forecasting.
Safeguard store assets and maintain internal controls consistent with Kahlig Group policies.
Oversee floorplan payoffs, contracts-in-transit funding, and vehicle inventory accounting.
Prepare for and support external audits, manufacturer audits, and group reviews.
Ensure timely filing of state sales and motor vehicle tax returns and other required reports.
Oversee payroll processing, commission accuracy, and related compliance, including 401(k)-related responsibilities.
Maintain the state licenses required for operations.
Ensure every transaction is recorded according to dealership accounting policies and procedures.
Recruit, train, supervise, and develop accounting office staff.
Set performance expectations and hold the accounting team accountable.
Improve office processes and workflows.
Carry out group-wide accounting initiatives at the store and respond promptly to corporate accounting requests.
Work flexible hours during peak business times.