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Dealership Controller Jobs in Detroit, MI (NOW HIRING)

iMBranded

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Controller

Troy, MI · On-site

$100K - $110K/yr

We are a full-service manufacturer of fixtures, furniture and graphic products specializing in the retail automotive segment with OEMs and the dealer network. The Corporate Controller is responsible ...

Dorian Ford

Automotive Biller / Coster

Clinton Township, MI · On-site

$18.50 - $23.75/hr

This role involves close collaboration with the Controller and offers opportunities for professional growth within the dealership. Experience with CDK software is a plus, but not required.

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All JobsDealership Controller JobsDealership Controller Jobs in Detroit, MI

Dealership Controller information

See Detroit, MI salary details

$50.3K

$109.3K

$160.5K

How much do dealership controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average yearly pay for dealership controller in Detroit, MI is $109,286.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $88,700.00 and $126,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a dealership controller?

A Dealership Controller is a financial professional responsible for overseeing the accounting operations and financial health of an automotive dealership. They manage budgeting, financial reporting, payroll, and compliance with regulatory standards. Dealership Controllers also analyze financial data to support management in decision-making and ensure the dealership's financial practices are efficient and accurate. Their role is critical in maintaining transparency and profitability within the dealership.

What does a dealership controller do?

As a dealership controller, your primary responsibilities are to oversee the financial aspects of an automotive dealership and monitor internal compliance. Your duties include adhering to the budget, assisting with internal audits, performing economic analysis, managing payroll, preparing an automotive plant asset report, and completing additional accounting related tasks. This job focuses heavily on the financial activities of the dealership. A dealership controller reports to the accounting director or the vice president of the dealership and can work with an automobile manufacturer or service center.

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

To thrive as a Dealership Controller, you need a solid background in accounting or finance, often supported by a bachelor's degree and dealership-specific experience. Familiarity with dealership management systems (DMS) like Reynolds & Reynolds or CDK Global, as well as proficiency in Excel and financial reporting software, is crucial. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and communication skills help you collaborate with department managers and ensure compliance. These skills are vital to maintain accurate financial records, support decision-making, and ensure the dealership's profitability and regulatory compliance.

What are some common challenges a dealership controller faces when managing multiple dealership locations?

A Dealership Controller overseeing multiple locations often encounters challenges such as standardizing financial processes, ensuring timely and accurate reporting, and maintaining compliance across all sites. Balancing different operational styles and system integrations can add complexity, making it essential to have strong organizational and communication skills. Regular collaboration with general managers and department heads is key to aligning financial goals and streamlining procedures, which helps support consistent profitability and regulatory compliance throughout the dealership group.

What is the difference between Dealership Controller vs Bookkeeper?

AspectDealership ControllerBookkeeper
CredentialsAccounting degree or CPA preferredBasic accounting or bookkeeping certification often sufficient
Work EnvironmentAutomotive dealership finance departmentSmall business, retail, or service industry
ResponsibilitiesFinancial reporting, budgeting, compliance, overseeing accounting staffRecording transactions, managing accounts payable/receivable
Industry UsageCommonly used in automotive dealerships and large retailUsed across various small to medium businesses

The Dealership Controller typically handles comprehensive financial management within a dealership, including reporting and compliance, requiring advanced accounting skills. In contrast, a Bookkeeper focuses on recording daily financial transactions, often with less formal credentials. While both roles involve accounting tasks, the Controller's position is more strategic and supervisory, especially in the automotive industry.

Is a dealership controller a high level position?

A dealership controller is a senior management role responsible for overseeing financial reporting, budgeting, and compliance within a dealership. It typically requires extensive accounting experience and may involve supervising staff, making it a high-level position in the dealership's organizational structure.
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Dealership Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dealership Controller job openings in Detroit, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $108,091 per year, or $52 per hour.

Controller

Troy, MI • On-site

iMBranded
Specialized Design Services • 51 - 200 employees
Learn more about iMBrandedexternal

$100K - $110K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

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Job description

iMBranded is one of the nation’s leading providers of facility imaging programs. We are a full-service manufacturer of fixtures, furniture and graphic products specializing in the retail automotive segment with OEMs and the dealer network.

The Corporate Controller is responsible for leading the company’s accounting operations, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting, and maintaining strong internal controls.  The role oversees the monthly close process, manages compliance with GAAP and regulatory requirements, drives process improvements, and partners with the CFO to support the company’s financial and operational objectives. The Corporate Controller provides leadership to the accounting team and plays a critical role in supporting strategic growth.

 

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Financial Reporting & Accounting Operations Controls:

-          Lead month-end close and ensure accurate reporting of plant financials

-          Oversee all accounting functions, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, fixed assets, and inventory accounting.

-          Maintain internal controls and ensure compliance with GAAP

-          Prepare and present margin analysis, including volume, price, mix, and cost drivers

-          Ensure proper revenue recognition, cost accounting and financial reconciliations.

Internal Controls & Compliance:

-          Develop annual budgets and rolling forecasts for plant operations

-          Support capital expenditure planning and ROI analysis

-          Assist in setting overhead and labor standards for budgeting purposes

-          Ensure compliance with federal, state and local financial reporting requirements.

-          Coordinate and manage annual external audits, including preparation of audit schedules and responses to auditor inquiries.

-          Lead initiatives and ensure proper documentation of workflows and procedures.

-          Support integration of new businesses or acquisitions into iMB accounting systems .

-          Oversee tax filings and compliance.

Financial Planning & Analysis Support:

-          Analyze financial data to identify trends, variances, and opportunities for operational improvement.

-          Provide meaningful financial insights and recommendations to CFO.

-          Support cost management, margin analysis, and process optimization initiatives.

Leadership & Team Development

-          Lead, mentor and develop the team to ensure high performance and professional growth.

-          Establish responsibilities and performance expectations for the department.

-          Foster a culture focused on accuracy, efficiency, accountability, and continuous improvement.

-          Participate in cross-functional departmental initiatives to improve product, process, and service quality

 

 

QUALIFICATIONS

-          Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA or CMA preferred

-          7-10+ years of progressive accounting experience, including leadership roles.

-          5+ experience in manufacturing finance or plant controlling

-          Strong understanding of cost accounting and ERP systems

-          Advanced Excel skills and financial modeling

-          Excellent communication and leadership skills

-          Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

-          Proven success in fast-paced, growth- oriented environment

-          Excellent analytical, organizational, and communication skills

WHO WE ARE

iMBranded is a leading national manufacturer specializing in architectural millwork and large format graphics across multiple industries including retail, hospitality, automotive and finance. Since 1996, we have been building branded environments for some of the world’s largest brands. Our team of experts understand the importance of even the most finite details of every fixture and how it brings the power of your brand to life.

Company Description

Since 1996, iMBranded specializes in helping automotive dealerships maximize the impression of their facilities on their clients. State-of-the-art technology, refined installation processes and direct relationships with the world’s top automotive manufacturers give iMBranded the ability to provide OEM-approved graphic and millwork solutions to thousands of dealerships across the country. Unmatched attention to detail, and a company culture built on minimizing disruption during installation, make iMBranded the industry leader and, quite simply, best in class.