Dealership Corporate Controller

DeFOUW Automotive, a Lafayette, Indiana based multi-rooftop dealership group, is seeking a Dealership Corporate Controller to lead the financial operations on site. This hands-on leadership role emphasizes precise reporting, strong internal controls, and scalable processes to support growth across the dealership network. The position offers a salary range of USD 120,000 to 170,000 per year and requires onsite presence in Lafayette.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and actively participate in the monthly, quarterly, and annual close cycles
• Prepare and review journal entries, reconciliations, and financial statements
• Manage general ledger, accounts payable and receivable, payroll, and reporting functions
• Ensure accurate, timely, and reliable financial reporting across all dealership entities
• Assess balance sheets, variances, and trends in operating performance
• Maintain hands-on involvement with dealership-specific processes such as inventory, floorplan financing, and manufacturer reporting
• Proactively identify and resolve accounting issues, discrepancies, and process gaps
• Strengthen and sustain internal controls and audit readiness
• Collaborate with leadership to deliver clear, actionable financial insights
• Assist with budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning activities
• The role combines ownership with hands-on execution, leading initiatives while remaining closely involved

Requirements

• Ten to fifteen or more years of progressive accounting and finance experience
• Demonstrated leadership in complex, multi-entity organizations
• Strong proficiency in financial reporting, GAAP, and internal controls
• Experience in an automotive dealership environment is highly preferred
• In-depth knowledge of dealership finance operations, including inventory, floorplan financing, and manufacturer reporting
• Experience with dealership management systems such as CDK, Reynolds & Reynolds, DealerTrack, or similar is preferred
• Advanced skills in Excel and other financial software
• A leadership approach grounded in ownership, accuracy, and accountability
• CPA or MBA credentials are a plus, but the ability to lead and execute is paramount

Technologies

• CDK
• Reynolds & Reynolds
• DealerTrack
• Excel

Benefits

• 401(k) with company matching
• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Employee discounts
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development support
• Vision insurance

Leadership & Team Impact

• Guide and grow a centralized accounting group
• Set clear performance expectations and drive consistent process execution
• Promote accountability, accuracy, and ongoing improvement
• Collaborate with operations and executive leaders to align financial performance with business goals

What Success Looks Like

• Financial reporting that is reliable, timely, and trusted by stakeholders
• Robust internal controls and clean audit outcomes
• Transparent visibility into financial performance across all operations
• Efficient, scalable accounting processes that support growth
• A high-performing, engaged accounting team