Group Controller for Rafih Auto Group

Rafih Auto Group•Rochester Hills, MI

15h

About The Position

The Rafih Auto Group is a large Automotive Dealership Group located in Michigan/Canada. We are a growing leader in the automotive industry and are seeking a visionary financial leader to join our team. Are you a seasoned financial leader with a passion for the automotive industry? Do you thrive in a dynamic, multi-dealership environment, driving financial excellence and strategic growth? If so, we have an exceptional opportunity for you! We are committed to delivering exceptional customer experiences and fostering a culture of innovation and integrity. We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Group Controller to lead our finance operations across our expanding portfolio of dealerships. As our Group Controller, you will be the cornerstone of our financial success, providing strategic guidance and ensuring the accuracy and integrity of our financial reporting. This is a critical leadership role that will allow you to make a significant impact on our profitability and future direction. Job Summary: The Group Controller is a key leadership position responsible for the overall financial health and integrity of our automotive dealership group. This role provides strategic financial guidance, manages day-to-day accounting operations, ensures compliance with financial regulations, and leads the accounting teams across multiple dealership locations. The Group Controller works closely with General Managers, Dealer Principals, and other senior management to optimize profitability and support business growth.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in accounting, Finance, or a related field is required.
Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in finance and accounting with at least 3-5 years in a Controller or similar leadership role within the automotive dealership industry.
Proven experience managing financial operations for multiple dealership locations is a significant asset.
Extensive knowledge of dealership accounting processes, policies, and internal controls.
Financial Acumen: Deep understanding of accounting principles (GAAP/IFRS), financial statements, budgeting, forecasting, and financial analysis.
Leadership: Strong leadership, management, and coaching skills with the ability to inspire and develop a high-performing team.
Analytical Thinking: Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex financial data and provide actionable recommendations.
Communication: Superior verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain technical financial information clearly and concisely to diverse audiences.
Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail and accuracy in all financial reporting and compliance matters.
Organizational Skills: Excellent organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment and meet deadlines.
Technical Proficiency: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel (pivot tables, VLOOKUPs, financial modeling) and other Microsoft Office Suite applications.
Ethics & Integrity: Unquestionable integrity and a strong work ethic.

Nice To Haves

MBA or CPA designation is highly preferred.
Software Knowledge: Extensive knowledge and experience with dealership management systems (DMS) such as CDK Global, Reynolds & Reynolds, PBS Systems, or Quorum is highly desirable.

Responsibilities

Prepare, review, and interpret complete financial statements (income statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements) for all dealerships within the group, ensuring accuracy and adherence to established timelines (monthly, quarterly, annually).
Analyze financial data, identify trends, variances, and key performance indicators (KPIs) to provide actionable insights and recommendations to management.
Develop and present financial reports to senior leadership, explaining complex financial information in an understandable manner.
Participate in the preparation of short- and long-term financial forecasts and budgets for the entire group.
Oversee all accounting functions across the dealership group, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, general ledger, and inventory reconciliation.
Ensure all financial transactions are recorded accurately and in compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) or International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) as applicable.
Develop, implement, and maintain robust internal controls to safeguard the group's assets, prevent fraud, and ensure accurate financial reporting.
Coordinate and oversee internal and external audits, ensuring all documentation and records are readily available and accurate.
Ensure compliance with all federal, provincial/state, and local regulations concerning financial reporting, tax obligations (e.g., sales tax, payroll taxes), and dealership operations.
Manage cash flow effectively, including forecasting cash needs, administering loan agreements, and managing banking relationships for the group.
Lead, mentor, coach, and develop a skilled accounting department across multiple dealerships.
Oversee the hiring, training, performance reviews, and professional development of accounting staff.
Foster a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement within the finance teams.
Work closely with General Managers and department heads to assist them in understanding and interpreting their financial reports, and in creating action plans to improve their operations and profitability.
Provide financial guidance on new business ventures, acquisitions, and other major initiatives.
Collaborate with other departments to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and support corporate initiatives.
Stay abreast of tax code revisions, industry trends, and technological advancements in financial management software to advise management on necessary operational adjustments.
Manage and reconcile manufacturer accounts (warranty claims, rebates, interest protection, co-op advertising).
Oversee floorplan reconciliation and management with financial institutions.
Ensure accurate and timely processing of commissions and bonuses.
Administer loss review programs and maintain loss reserves for contingent liabilities.
Oversee and manage the dealership management system (DMS) to maximize utilization and integration with accounting functions.