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Dealer Principal Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Cars

Senior Account Executive - Los Angeles, CA

It is a consultative, solutions-oriented position for a seasoned seller who can walk into a dealership's GM or dealer principal office, quickly diagnose their business challenges, and architect a ...

Cars

Senior Account Executive - San Antonio, TX

It is a consultative, solutions-oriented position for a seasoned seller who can walk into a dealership's GM or dealer principal office, quickly diagnose their business challenges, and architect a ...

Cars

Senior Account Executive - Los Angeles

It is a consultative, solutions-oriented position for a seasoned seller who can walk into a dealership's GM or dealer principal office, quickly diagnose their business challenges, and architect a ...

Cars

Senior Account Executive - Boston, MA

It is a consultative, solutions-oriented position for a seasoned seller who can walk into a dealership's GM or dealer principal office, quickly diagnose their business challenges, and architect a ...

Cars

Senior Account Executive - Washington, DC

It is a consultative, solutions-oriented position for a seasoned seller who can walk into a dealership's GM or dealer principal office, quickly diagnose their business challenges, and architect a ...

Jobtailor

Dealer Credit Analyst

Charlotte, NC · On-site

$80 - $100/hr

Communicate regularly with dealer principals/owners, CFOs, field sales, credit management, and legal counsel Requirements * BS/BA and preferably 2-4 years of relevant experience, or 6 years of ...

John Jones Ford of Salem

General Manager

Salem, IN · On-site

Previous experience as a General Sales Manager, General Manager, or Dealer Principal preferred. * Demonstrated success in increasing sales and profitability. * Strong leadership, communication, and ...

Humble Hyundai

MISC

Humble, TX · On-site

Job-Specific Expectations Works with the Dealer Principal to makes proposals and or changes to the operating plan and associated budgets. Holds department managers responsible for instituted monthly ...

John Jones Ford of Salem

General Manager

Salem, IN

Previous experience as a General Sales Manager, General Manager, or Dealer Principal preferred. * Demonstrated success in increasing sales and profitability. * Strong leadership, communication, and ...

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Dealer Principal information

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$36.5K

$109.4K

$182K

How much do dealer principal jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for dealer principal in the United States is $109,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $85,000.00 and $125,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dealer principal?

A Dealer Principal is the owner or top executive responsible for the overall management and success of a car dealership. They oversee all operations, including sales, service, finance, and staff management, ensuring the dealership meets its financial and customer service goals. Dealer Principals also represent the dealership in relationships with manufacturers and regulatory bodies, and they are accountable for maintaining compliance with industry standards and laws. Their leadership plays a crucial role in setting the dealership's culture and long-term strategy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a dealer principal, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Dealer Principal, you need strong business acumen, leadership abilities, and in-depth knowledge of automotive sales and operations, often supported by a degree in business or automotive management. Familiarity with dealership management systems (DMS), CRM software, and manufacturer certification programs is typically required. Outstanding interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to motivate teams set top performers apart. These skills enable effective dealership operations, high customer satisfaction, and profitable business growth in a competitive market.

What are some common challenges dealer principals face when managing a dealership, and how can they address them?

Dealer Principals often encounter challenges such as maintaining profitability, adapting to market changes, and motivating a diverse team. Balancing operational efficiency with excellent customer service is key, as is staying updated on evolving automotive technologies and regulations. Successful Dealer Principals frequently address these challenges by fostering strong communication across departments, investing in staff training, and analyzing performance metrics to guide decision-making. Building a positive dealership culture and maintaining strong manufacturer relationships also play a crucial role in overcoming obstacles.

What is the difference between Dealer Principal vs Sales Manager?

AspectDealer PrincipalSales Manager
CredentialsBusiness management experience, automotive industry knowledgeSales experience, often with certifications in sales or customer relations
Work EnvironmentOversees entire dealership operationsFocuses on managing sales teams and customer interactions
Industry UsageCommonly used in automotive dealershipsUsed across various sales-driven industries, including automotive

The Dealer Principal is responsible for the overall dealership management, including finance, operations, and strategic planning. In contrast, the Sales Manager primarily focuses on leading the sales team and achieving sales targets. While both roles require automotive industry knowledge and leadership skills, the Dealer Principal has broader responsibilities overseeing the entire dealership.

How much does a dealer principal make?

A dealer principal typically earns between $100,000 and $250,000 annually, depending on the size of the dealership, location, and experience. Compensation often includes a base salary plus bonuses or profit sharing based on dealership performance.
More about Dealer Principal jobs

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Who are the top companies hiring for Dealer Principal jobs?

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What states have the most Dealer Principal jobs?

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What are popular job titles related to Dealer Principal jobs?

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Dealer Principal jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dealer Principal job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 8% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $109,393 per year, or $52.6 per hour.

Office Manager

Grove City, PA • On-site

Diehl Chevrolet Buick Cadillac of Grove City
See more jobs at Diehl Chevrolet Buick Cadillac of Grove Cityexternal

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Office Manager 

We’re seeking an experienced Automotive Accounting Office Manager to join our team! The ideal candidate will have prior automotive dealership accounting experience, excellent communication and organizational skills, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. We’re looking for someone who is self-motivated, organized, goal-oriented, and enthusiastic. 

The Diehl family has 22 dealership rooftops, 10 collision centers, and other related businesses. Our large footprint creates many opportunities for growth to our wonderful employees! We offer medical, dental, vision, supplemental and retirement benefits. 

Summary

Processes and generates financial data for all dealership departments, which together represent the accurate financial condition of the business. Provides accurate reporting to the dealer/general manager and is responsible for accounting office and administrative functions.

Essential Duties

  • Trains, and supervises office personnel.

  • Controls all posted documents, including time records, vehicle deals, commissions and additions and changes to inventory.

  • Reconciles select accounts monthly. Ensures dealership accounting schedules are adjusted and cleaned regularly. 

  • Ensures that all manufacturer accounts including warranty claims, rebates, interest, protection, and co-op advertising accounts are current and accurate.

  • Prints monthly journals, schedules and general ledger. Closes month by processing accounting month-end.

  • Ensures compliance with all government regulations.

  • Assists in completion of payroll on a timely basis, posts payroll and maintains payroll records.

  • Assists in preparation of tax reports, tax deposits and tax returns in a timely, accurate manner.

  • Manages the payoff of vehicle floor plan and works with bank representatives.

  • Helps in collection of past due customer accounts. 

  • Compiles information and prepares reports as requested by management and/or dealer principal.

  • Helps process paperwork for new employees and terminations.

  • Maintains confidential employment files.

  • Maintains a professional appearance.

  • Prepares financial reports as requested by management. 

  • Completes required training assigned by supervisors. 

  • Attends managers meetings as requested.