Controller

*Job Summary*
The Controller role at Campus Ford, based in Waynesboro, VA, is pivotal in managing the dealership's financial operations. This position involves ensuring the integrity and compliance of all financial processes with both company policies and regulatory standards. The Controller will regularly report to the dealer/general manager, providing a clear and accurate financial overview of the dealership's performance. Additionally, the role includes delivering comprehensive analyses of sales and expenses, highlighting areas of concern and identifying opportunities to enhance profitability in line with monthly and annual projections.
This is a full-time, individual contributor role in the auto industry located in Waynesboro, Virginia.
*Essential Duties*
* Prepares a complete financial statement monthly according to dealership guidelines and within each manufacturer's format and time frame. Ensures that all manufacturer accounts, including warranty claims, rebates, interest protection and co-op advertising are current and accurate.
* Interprets the financial statement and the daily operating control (DOC) regularly and informs dealer of developing trends.
* Participates in the preparation of short- and long-term financial forecasts for the dealership.
* Provides department managers with detailed financial and management reports.
* Maintains an effective cash management system that forecasts cash funds and makes recommendations for the profitable use of excess cash.
* Directs assessment of depreciation rates to apply to capital assets.
* Reviews the general ledger and scheduled accounts. Notes any unusual entries and investigates.
* Reviews the reconciliation of general ledger accounts with outside sources to ensure proper bank reconciliation, reserve accounts, factory payable and floor plan payable.
* Stays abreast of tax code revisions and advises dealer regarding any operational adjustments needed to accommodate revisions.
* Ensures compliance with all applicable government finance regulations, including filing and/or maintaining of required forms, payroll taxes and deposits, income taxes, retirement plan records etc.
* Manages the dealership computer system to maximize utilization.
* Administers a loss review program and maintains loss reserves for contingent liabilities and trade receivables.
* Meets with dealer to evaluate all insurance renewals.
* Purchases property and liability insurance.
* Prepares and processes all insurance claims.
* Coordinates annual audit (or review) and physical inventory.
* Ensures that all office personnel are using proper accounting procedures and maintaining accurate records and analyses and supervises the preparation of all information for the CPA in order to minimize audit or review costs.
* Continually strives to improve data integrity and information reporting throughout the dealership.
* Attends managers meetings.
* Maintains professional appearance.
* Other tasks as assigned.
Requirements:
* Must be proficient with Dealertrack
* 5+ years of experience in a similar role, preferably in the auto industry.
*
Strong knowledge of accounting principles and practices.- Knowledge of federal, state, and local tax laws.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office and accounting software.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
* Previous experience managing and training accounting staff.
* Detail-oriented and strong analytical skills.
* Ability to work independently and handle multiple tasks with competing deadlines.