Automotive Business Office Manager/Controller

About the role

The Business Manager provides financial thought partnership to the dealership as a strategic business partner to General and Department Managers. Oversees dealership specialists and cashier personnel located in the dealerships. Oversees dealership accountants in the single point structure. Liaises with Dealership Accounting and Shared Service leadership. Exceptional performers would be positioned for a Platform Director/Area Controller or BM III role depending on business need and the individual’s accounting or business acumen, respectively. This position reports to the Director of Accounting Operations.

Responsibilities

• Act as a financial thought partner to the dealership; develop and maintain positive relationships with store leadership (GM, Sales & Operations) and Manufacturer Representatives
• Ensure dealership is operating within financial guardrails
• Communicate risks and opportunities with operational leaders
• Ensure financial processes are in place to support new or evolving business initiatives
• Understand manufacturers’ Excellence Objectives and work with GM to ensure achievement
• Maximize benefits from manufacturer incentive programs; understand program rules and payment structures, work with GMs to achieve results and ensure that the Shared Services team is up to date on program rules
• Ensure compliance with internal controls
• Responsible for accurate store financials; ensure regular reviews of operational income statements, GL activity, supporting schedules and balance sheet accounts
• Conduct quarterly physical inventory: vehicles, parts, supplies

Skills and Qualifications

• Strong grasp of accounting processes and reconciliation
• Ability to quickly review, research and, if necessary, resolve variances
• Ability to offer solutions or recommendations based on analysis and interpretation of financial results
• Ability to partner with dealership leadership to drive financial results
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or commensurate experience, a plus
• Experience driving business results through financial interpretation
• Experience leading teams (required)
• Auto industry experience (preferred)
• Strong attention to detail
• Sense of urgency
• Excellent communication

Benefits

• Competitive pay
• Opportunities for career advancement
• Medical, dental and vision plans
• Paid holidays & PTO
• Short- and long-term disability & paid life insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan & employee stock purchase plan
• Vehicle purchase discounts
• Wellness programs