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Automotive Dealership Controller / Office Manager

Denver, CO · On-site

$96K - $108K/yr

Local auto dealer group is currently accepting applications to hire an experienced Dealership Controller / Office Manager with several years of experience in an automotive dealership office setting.

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Dealership Controller information

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$119.5K

$175.5K

How much do dealership controller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for dealership controller in the United States is $119,497.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $97,000.00 and $138,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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.

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 is generally considered a high-level position that requires extensive accounting experience and leadership skills. The role often reports directly to the general manager or owner and may involve managing a team of accounting staff.

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.

What qualifications are needed to be a dealership controller?

A dealership controller typically needs a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field, along with several years of experience in accounting or financial management within the automotive industry. Strong knowledge of accounting software, financial regulations, and analytical skills are essential, and certifications such as CPA or CMA can enhance qualifications.

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.
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Dealership Controller jobs near you
Infographic showing various Dealership Controller job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $119,497 per year, or $57.5 per hour.

Automotive Dealership Controller

Berkshire Hathaway Automotive

Scottsdale, AZ

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Berkshire Hathaway Automotive rating

5.3

Company rating: 5.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

134th of 150 rated car dealerships

Job description

Controller opportunities are in a variety of dynamic and profitable dealerships including import, luxury and domestic brands in the Greater Phoenix, AZ area. These stores offer aggressive compensation packages based on experience. Also, there are highly competitive benefits with an outstanding 401(k) that includes an employer match.

Ideal candidates will have successful automotive controller experience with references available. The position requires leadership qualities with strength in controlling expenses and quality balance sheet skills.  

Benefits:

  • Paid training and development
  • Company-wide Controller Meetings and Training opportunities
  • Employee discounts
  • Career growth opportunities
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Paid vacation
  • 401(k) with employer match

Responsibilities:

This position is accountable for the accounting operations of the company, to include the production of periodic financial reports, maintenance of an adequate system of accounting records, and a comprehensive set of controls and budgets designed to mitigate risk, enhance the accuracy of the company's reported financial results, and ensure that reported results comply with generally accepted accounting principles and standards.

  • Maintain a documented system of accounting policies and procedures
  • Oversight of the accounting office personnel along with all aspects of the general ledger and financial statements
  • Partner with the General Manager to manage the financial results of the dealership
  • Recommend benchmarks against which to measure the performance of company operations
  • Responsible for adherence to dealership policies and internal control structure
  • Proactively manage and safeguard company assets
  • Actively manage expense structure and vendors
  • Prepare the daily, weekly, and monthly reports required by the management team
  • Work with the management staff of the dealership to review the data and prepare reports/analysis as necessary

Qualifications:

The controller candidate should have a Bachelor's degree in accounting or business administration, or equivalent Dealership Controller experience (3+ years preferred).

  • Must have strong CDK DMS experience
  • Self-motivated, goal-oriented and enthusiastic presence in a team environment with the ability to lead and influence others
  • Ability to be analytical, problem solve and multi-task
  • Experience building strong teams
  • Consistent and stable work history
  • Valid driver’s license and clean driving record
  • Professional appearance and work ethic

*All potential employees must pass pre-employment testing including a background check and drug screen

Company Overview: Berkshire Hathaway Automotive is one of the largest dealership groups in America, with over 100 franchises in 10 states. The company sets the industry standard for operational excellence, financial performance and an unmatched customer experience within franchised auto dealerships. Using extensive experience, innovative strategies and technological expertise, Berkshire Hathaway Automotive works to assure their dealerships obtain and maintain position as leaders and trendsetters in the automotive field. The company focuses on building resilient and adaptive business models that cultivate engaged, strong and proactive leadership.

We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination/harassment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

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