Automotive Assistant Controller

About the Role

Kahlig Automotive Group is hiring an Assistant Controller to support the Controller in running the store's accounting office. The ideal candidate will have a hands-on and interactive management style. This role steps in for the Controller when needed and reports directly to the Controller. The position is full-time and on-site in San Antonio, Texas.

Responsibilities

• Daily Accounting Operations:
  • Oversee the daily work of the accounting office, ensuring timely and accurate postings.
  • Review and post vehicle deals for proper accounting treatment; follow up on missing paperwork and funding.
  • Review journal entries and AP/AR postings for accuracy before month-end.
  • Monitor contracts in transit and work with F&I to get deals funded promptly.
  • Oversee title processing and ensure trade payoffs are made on time.
• Month-End Close and Reconciliations:
  • Manage the month-end close checklist and track it to completion with the Controller.
  • Reconcile balance sheet accounts monthly, including bank, floorplan, manufacturer receivables, contracts in transit, and warranty.
  • Review accounting schedules and correct aged or misposted items.
  • Assist in preparing the manufacturer financial statement and internal reports by required deadlines.
  • Run and review expense trend reports monthly and flag unusual items to the Controller.
• Cash, Assets, and Controls:
  • Monitor daily cash, deposits, and bank activity.
  • Follow and enforce internal controls that align with Kahlig Group policies and safeguard store assets.
  • Support floorplan payoffs, floorplan audits, and vehicle inventory accounting.
  • Prepare documentation for external audits, manufacturer audits, workers' compensation audits, and group reviews.
• Payroll, Compliance, and Tax:
  • Review payroll and commission calculations for accuracy before submission and reconcile payroll postings to the general ledger.
  • Prepare state sales and motor vehicle tax returns and other required reports for Controller review.
  • Assist with maintaining state licenses for operations.
  • Ensure every transaction is recorded under dealership accounting policies and procedures.
• Leadership and Support:
  • Train, supervise, and support the accounting office staff day-to-day.
  • Help recruit and onboard new office staff as needed.
  • Act for the Controller when they are out of the office.
  • Respond promptly to questions from department managers and requests from corporate accounting.
  • Improve office processes and workflows.
  • Keep the Controller informed of key issues in the office.

Qualifications

• Required:
  • 3+ years of franchised dealership accounting experience.
  • Hands-on experience with dealership month-end close, including schedules and account reconciliations.
  • Working knowledge of dealership schedules, controlled accounts, general ledger, and bank, floorplan, and manufacturer reconciliations.
  • Understanding of vehicle deal posting, contracts in transit, and title processing.
  • Advanced Excel skills and proficiency with Microsoft Office.
  • Working knowledge of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).
  • High character and strong work ethic.
• Preferred:
  • Prior Assistant Controller, Office Manager, or senior Staff Accountant experience at a franchised dealership.
  • Experience supervising or training accounting staff.
  • Experience preparing the manufacturer financial statement.
  • Working knowledge of Texas sales and motor vehicle tax returns.
  • Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field.
  • Experience with CDK.

Skills and Competencies

• Accurate and detail-oriented while meeting fixed monthly deadlines.
• Analytical: spots errors, aged items, and variances before they grow.
• Explains accounting issues in plain terms to managers who are not accountants.
• Builds working relationships with the Controller, General Manager, department managers, and corporate accounting.
• Trains and coaches staff and leads by example.
• Manages several priorities at once in a fast-paced store.
• Handles confidential information with discretion and integrity.
• Desire to grow into a Controller role.
• Willing to work flexible hours during peak business times.

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Company-paid basic life insurance
• Company-paid short-term disability
• Voluntary life insurance
• Long-term disability
• Vision
• 401(k)
• Paid vacation, personal sick leave days, and specific holidays

Working Conditions

This is an office-based role requiring extended periods of computer work, regular walking within the dealership or affiliated office buildings, and occasionally lifting up to 20 pounds. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.