Reporting Relationship: The Controller reports directly to the Director of Accounting.
Job Summary: Birchwood is looking for a dedicated, experienced and enthusiastic Controller. As part of the Birchwood Accounting Services leadership team, the Controller will play an integral role in overseeing the accounting for multiple dealerships within the auto group.
The Controller is responsible for the financial reporting, accounting, monitoring and controls of all dealership accounting needs and stakeholder requirements. In addition, the Controller will also be asked to look for opportunities to enhance current processes and develop new strategies that create efficiencies within the department and the greater group. This position is a leadership role with the expectation that the incumbent will act as a mentor to the dealerships accountants and will provide support to all Birchwood team members.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS:

• CPA designation is required
• Minimum three (3) years of Controller or Senior Finance experience or equivalent
• Demonstrated knowledge and understanding of the overall operation of a retail automotive dealership’s accounting procedures considered an asset
• Proven leadership skills, including the ability to successfully delegate to, motivate, lead, teach and mentor team members
• Excellent interpersonal skills - must be an effective communicator both verbally and in writing
• Demonstrates high degree of common sense and intellect with a well-developed business acumen
• Focused on clients’ needs – anticipates, understands, and responds to the needs of internal and external clients to meet or exceed their expectations;
• Ability to think “outside-the-box” to transform legacy processes to be more efficient;
• Proficiency in accounting software; experience in CDK considered an asset.
  Our ideal candidate will have automotive or dealership experience, exceptional accounting skills, some leadership experience, and a positive attitude. They will be excited to overcome obstacles, take on challenges and strive for continuous improvement

• Support and execute the financial planning and accounting procedures of the dealerships, including:
• Month end reporting
• Vehicle sales transaction
• Managing the floor plan
• Banking, accounts receivable, accounts payable and cashflow management
• Budgeting and variance analysis
• Reporting results to multiple stakeholders including the General Managers, manufacturers, and Head Office
• Year End functions, including preparing files for external audit
• Supervise a team of 5
• Regularly meet with the General Managers on the financial position of their dealerships
• Develop and document business processes and accounting policies to strengthen internal controls and manage risk; ensure business risks are appropriately communicated
• Resolve escalated client service issues and strengthen relationships with stakeholders throughout Birchwood
• Educate, mentor, and assist others in both finance and non-finance roles
• Foster a client driven and can-do environment with a hands-on approach to deliver key initiatives