Group Controller

SWICKARD SHARED SERVICES LLC•Las Vegas, NV

1d•Onsite

About The Position

Swickard Auto Group is seeking a Group Controller to serve as the financial backbone of a nearly $3 billion automotive group. This senior accounting leader will partner directly with the CFO and executive leadership to ensure the accuracy, integrity, and strategic usefulness of the accounting function. The role involves leading a team of over 50 accounting professionals, overseeing financial reporting integrity, and managing the day-to-day financial and accounting operations across a complex, multi-state, multi-brand dealership organization. The Group Controller will be responsible for technical accounting, people development, and process improvement within the accounting function.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting
8+ years of progressive accounting experience
3+ years of public accounting audit experience with a large regional or national firm
5+ years of private industry accounting department management in a large company
Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP, financial reporting, general ledger management, account reconciliations, and internal controls
Proven ability to lead and develop large accounting teams while managing multiple functions and priorities in a fast-paced environment
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and financial management skills
Proficiency with accounting systems, Microsoft Office, and financial reporting tools
Strong communicator with the ability to collaborate effectively with executive leadership and cross-functional teams

Nice To Haves

CPA preferred (does not need to be active)
Knowledge of automotive dealership accounting, inventory, fixed assets, payroll, DMV/title processes, and related compliance requirements a significant advantage

Responsibilities

Lead and oversee the Group Accounting function, serving as process owner for General Ledger, Inventory, Fixed Assets, and Payroll.
Provide strategic direction and operational leadership to the Assistant Controller, Senior Payroll Staff Accountant, DMV Manager, and Inventory Control Manager.
Direct automotive accounting operations across the organization, ensuring accurate financial reporting, consistent accounting practices, and alignment with company policies and objectives.
Establish, maintain, and oversee the organization's chart of accounts, ensuring appropriate account structure, classification, consistency, and alignment with financial reporting requirements.
Oversee the preparation, review, and analysis of financial statements, general ledger activity, account reconciliations, and other financial reporting in accordance with U.S. GAAP and company requirements.
Direct and manage the month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes, ensuring accurate, timely completion and satisfaction of internal and external stakeholder reporting requirements.
Oversee payroll accounting operations, including payroll journal entries, accruals, reconciliations, payroll-related liabilities, and accurate recording of employee compensation expenses.
Provide leadership and oversight of DMV adjusting activities, ensuring accurate accounting adjustments, appropriate documentation, and compliance with established policies.
Ensure compliance with manufacturer financial reporting requirements (Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and others), applicable accounting standards, tax requirements, and audit procedures.
Partner with Swickard Management Group Accounting on the annual financial statement audit and oversee timely resolution of findings.
Partner with the CFO to maintain strong internal controls, including proper controls over disbursements and employee-related transactions, and appropriate segregation of duties across all financial transactions.
Monitor and evaluate financial performance, accounting trends, and variances, providing insights and recommendations to executive leadership on opportunities to improve profitability, liquidity, and risk management.
Lead the development and implementation of process improvements, automation, and system enhancements, including change management through system transitions, to improve accounting accuracy, operational efficiency, and financial controls.
Develop, coach, and mentor accounting team members, partnering with Human Resources on job architecture, individual development, performance management, and succession planning.