Group Controller

SWICKARD SHARED SERVICES LLC•Las Vegas, NV

About The Position

Swickard Auto Group is seeking a senior accounting leader to own the day-to-day financial and accounting operations of its automotive group. Based in the Shared Services team in Las Vegas, the Group Controller reports directly to the CFO and leads more than 50 accounting professionals across a complex, multi-state, multi-brand dealership organization with approximately $3 billion in annual revenue and more than 2,600 employees. The role oversees the integrity of financial reporting and accounting operations, including general ledger, inventory, fixed assets, payroll, financial close, and internal controls. The Group Controller partners with the CFO and executive leadership to provide financial insight, manage risk, and support strategic decisions. The position also leads process improvement, system enhancements, and the development of accounting team members.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting.
At least 8 years of progressive accounting experience.
At least 3 years of public accounting audit experience with a large regional or national firm.
At least 5 years of private industry accounting department management experience 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, including the ability to identify discrepancies, assess risk, and implement effective solutions.
Proficiency with accounting systems, Microsoft Office, and financial reporting tools.
Strong communication and collaboration skills with executive leadership and cross-functional teams, along with a positive, team-oriented, customer-centric approach.

Nice To Haves

CPA certification; it does not need to be active.
Knowledge of automotive dealership accounting, inventory, fixed assets, payroll, DMV/title processes, and related compliance requirements.

Responsibilities

Lead the Group Accounting function and serve 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, ensuring accurate financial reporting, consistent accounting practices, and alignment with company policies and objectives.
Establish, maintain, and oversee the chart of accounts, including its structure, classification, 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 month-end, quarter-end, and year-end close processes, ensuring accurate and timely completion and satisfaction of stakeholder reporting requirements.
Oversee payroll accounting, including journal entries, accruals, reconciliations, payroll-related liabilities, and recording employee compensation expenses.
Oversee DMV adjusting activities, ensuring accurate accounting adjustments, documentation, and compliance with established policies.
Ensure compliance with manufacturer financial reporting requirements, accounting standards, tax requirements, and audit procedures.
Partner with Swickard Management Group Accounting on the annual financial statement audit and oversee timely resolution of audit findings.
Partner with the CFO to maintain strong internal controls, including controls over disbursements and employee-related transactions and appropriate segregation of duties.
Monitor financial performance, accounting trends, and variances, and provide executive leadership with insights and recommendations on profitability, liquidity, and risk management.
Lead process improvements, automation, and system enhancements, including change management through system transitions.
Develop, coach, and mentor accounting team members; partner with Human Resources on job architecture, individual development, performance management, and succession planning.