Dealership Corporate Controller
Job Description
Overview
DeFOUW Automotive seeks a Corporate Controller to lead financial operations across our multi-rooftop dealership group. This role is hands-on and highly visible, balancing ownership of the accounting function with active involvement in daily financial activities that keep the business running smoothly. It is ideal for a leader who excels at building strong teams while staying closely connected to the work that drives accuracy and performance.
Location
Lafayette, IN 47905 — This is an on-site, in-person role.
What You’ll Do
- Lead and actively participate in monthly, quarterly, and annual close processes to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
- Review and prepare journal entries, reconciliations, and financial statements.
- Oversee and support the general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, payroll, and reporting functions.
- Ensure accurate, timely, and reliable financial reporting across all dealership entities.
- Analyze balance sheets, variances, and operational performance trends to inform decision-making.
- Maintain deep involvement in dealership-specific accounting processes, including inventory, floorplan financing, and manufacturer reporting.
- Identify and proactively resolve accounting issues, discrepancies, and process gaps.
- Strengthen internal controls and audit readiness.
- Partner with leadership to provide clear, actionable financial insights.
- Support budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning efforts.
Leadership & Team Impact
- Lead, mentor, and develop a centralized accounting team.
- Establish clear expectations and ensure consistent execution of processes.
- Foster a culture of accountability, accuracy, and continuous improvement.
- Collaborate with operational and executive leaders to align financial performance with business goals.
What Success Looks Like
- Financial reporting that is accurate, timely, and trusted.
- Strong internal controls and clean audit outcomes.
- Clear visibility into financial performance across all operations.
- Efficient, scalable accounting processes that support growth.
- A high-performing, engaged accounting team.
What You Bring
- 10–15+ years of progressive accounting or finance experience.
- Proven leadership experience in complex, multi-entity organizations.
- Strong expertise in financial reporting, GAAP, and internal controls.
- Automotive dealership experience is strongly preferred.
- Deep understanding of dealership financial operations, including inventory, floorplan, and manufacturer reporting.
- Experience with dealership systems (CDK, Reynolds & Reynolds, DealerTrack, or similar) preferred.
- Advanced Excel and financial systems proficiency.
- A leadership style grounded in ownership, precision, and follow-through.
- CPA, MBA, or other advanced certifications are a plus, but the ability to lead and execute is what matters most.
Why DeFOUW Automotive
DeFOUW Automotive is a multi-rooftop dealership group representing leading automotive brands. Our focus centers on operational excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement. Here, your work matters, your perspective is valued, and your impact resonates throughout the organization.
Compensation and Benefits
Pay: $120,000.00 - $170,000.00 per year
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Professional development assistance
- Vision insurance