Controller - Dealership Operations

Principle Automotive Dealership Controller - Dealership Operations Lead Financial Operations for One of Texas’ Premier Luxury Automotive Groups Principle Automotive is seeking an experienced and people-focused Dealership Controller to join our high-volume luxury dealership team in San Antonio, Texas. This is an opportunity for a strong automotive accounting leader to step into a highly visible role supporting multiple dealership operations, financial reporting, compliance, and accounting team development within a growing organization known for its culture, integrity, and operational excellence. The ideal candidate is operationally strong, detail-oriented, and relationship-driven, someone who can lead teams, partner with dealership leadership, drive accountability, and create accurate, timely financial reporting while fostering a positive and professional culture. If you are an experienced automotive Controller or Office Manager ready to grow your career with a stable and values-driven organization, we want to meet you. Why Join Principle Automotive? High-volume luxury dealership environment Multi-dealership operational exposure Collaborative executive leadership team Stable and growing automotive group Strong culture focused on people and relationships Opportunity to lead and develop accounting teams Career growth and advancement opportunities Competitive compensation and benefits package What You’ll Do Financial Leadership & Reporting Oversee the preparation and accuracy of financial statements for multiple dealerships Ensure financial reporting complies with GAAP and company accounting policies Prepare monthly financial statements within the first week of each month Analyze monthly operating results and partner with dealership leadership to improve profitability Forecast quarterly and annual financial goals to support dealership performance Assist with year-end audits and outside accounting firm reviews Analyze financial trends and develop reports supporting operational decision-making Dealership Accounting Operations Review accounting accuracy and completeness of retail and wholesale deals Monitor deal flow between Finance & Insurance and accounting teams Investigate deal discrepancies and ensure timely posting of deals Verify pack accounts and ensure proper reconciliation procedures Manage daily banking operations including deposits, cash management, reconciliations, and commercial billing Oversee expense reporting systems and compliance Maintain strong internal controls and safeguard company financial information Team Leadership & Development Hire, train, develop, and supervise Assistant Controllers, Office Managers, and accounting staff Lead weekly staff meetings and support team accountability and development Foster a collaborative, high-performing accounting office culture Assist in developing future accounting leaders within the organization Operational Compliance & Process Improvement Maintain compliance with dealership accounting procedures and internal controls Identify process improvement opportunities and operational efficiencies Partner with dealership leadership and corporate teams to ensure consistent accounting practices Maintain working knowledge of dealership DMS systems including Tekion Support changing business needs and special projects as assigned by senior leadership What We’re Looking For Previous OEM new car dealership accounting experience required Minimum of 5 years of dealership accounting leadership experience Previous Controller or Office Manager experience preferred Strong understanding of dealership financial statements and accounting operations Experience managing accounting office personnel in a high-volume environment Proficiency in Microsoft Excel required Experience with dealership management systems such as Tekion, DealerTrack, CDK, or Reynolds & Reynolds preferred Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills High level of integrity, accountability, and professionalism Ability to thrive in a fast-paced dealership environment Compensation & Benefits Competitive compensation based on experience Performance bonus opportunities Medical, dental, and vision insurance Paid time off and hol