Financial Controller

This job is located in Salem, Oregon (50 miles south of Portland).

About Us

Day 1 Auto Group is a well-capitalized automotive dealership group that made their first acquisition of 2 dealerships in Salem, Oregon (Mazda of Salem, Salem Pre-Owned) and is aggressively looking to expand.

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Controller to oversee the financial operations of our automobile dealerships in Salem, Oregon. You are responsible for managing the accounting department, ensuring regulatory compliance, preparing financial reports, and supporting operational decision-making. This position plays a key leadership role within the dealership and ensures the financial integrity of all business activities. Additionally, as we execute our dealership acquisition strategy this role has the opportunity to evolve into a CFO position overseeing multiple dealerships.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management & Reporting

• Prepare accurate monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and manufacturer reports
• Maintain accounting records
• Oversee general ledger functions, journal entries, and reconciliations
• Lead and mentor the accounting team, including A/P, A/R, payroll, and title personnel
• Provide timely financial reports and analysis to owner

Regulatory Compliance

• Follow all federal and state specific financial regulations.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies, tax laws, and OEM requirements

Budgeting & Forecasting

• Lead the development of annual budgets and financial forecasts
• Perform variance analysis and implement corrective actions as necessary

Cash Flow & Inventory Management

• Manage daily cash flow, floor plan financing, and working capital requirements
• Oversee vehicle inventory accounting and reconcile with physical counts

Audit & Risk Management

• Coordinate external audits and prepare audit documentation
• Identify financial risks and implement internal controls and risk mitigation strategies

Qualifications & Skills

• 5+ years of accounting experience, preferably within the automotive industry.
• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA designation preferred) a bonus but not required
• Strong understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) and Oregon/US regulatory requirements
• Proficiency in dealership management systems (e.g., Reynolds and Reynolds)
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel and financial modeling
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills
• High level of integrity, accuracy, and attention to detail

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: Dependent on experience but we will aggressively compensate the right candidate

Benefits:

• Comprehensive benefits package (health, dental, vision)
• Disability insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• 401(k) with company match

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Monday to Friday

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree (preferred but not required)

Experience:

• Accounting: 3 years (preferred)

Work Location: In person with opportunity to work from home up to 2 days a week