Controller

Birchwood; Winnipeg; On-site; CAD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading automotive retail group in Winnipeg, Manitoba is seeking an experienced Controller to oversee accounting functions across multiple dealerships. The ideal candidate will have a CPA designation and at least three years of relevant experience. Key responsibilities include financial reporting, team management, and process improvement. The company offers a competitive salary, bonuses, and strong benefits, plus opportunities for growth and professional development.

Benefits

Competitive salary with bonuses

Comprehensive benefits package

RSP matching up to $5,000

Career development opportunities

Wellness initiatives

Company events

Qualifications

• Minimum three years of Controller or senior finance experience.
• Knowledge of retail automotive dealership accounting procedures is an asset.
• Proficiency in accounting software, especially CDK.

Responsibilities

• Manage financial planning and accounting procedures for dealerships.
• Supervise a team of 5.
• Report results to stakeholders and prepare for audits.

Skills

CPA designation

Leadership skills

Interpersonal skills

Customer focus

Proficiency in accounting software

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance

Tools

CDK

Job description

Job Description

Reporting Relationship: The Controller reports directly to the Director of Accounting.

Job Summary: Birchwood is seeking a dedicated, experienced, and enthusiastic Controller. As part of the Birchwood Accounting Services leadership team, the Controller will oversee the accounting functions for multiple dealerships within the auto group.

The Controller is responsible for financial reporting, accounting, monitoring, and controls for all dealership accounting needs and stakeholder requirements. The role also involves identifying opportunities to improve current processes and develop new strategies to enhance efficiency within the department and the broader group. This leadership position requires mentoring dealership accountants and supporting all Birchwood team members.

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Support and execute financial planning and accounting procedures for the dealerships, including:

- Month-end reporting

- Vehicle sales transactions

- Managing the floor plan

- Banking, accounts receivable, accounts payable, and cash flow management

- Budgeting and variance analysis

- Reporting results to stakeholders such as General Managers, manufacturers, and Head Office

- Year-end functions, including preparing files for external audit

Supervise a team of 5

Regularly meet with General Managers to discuss the financial position of their dealerships

Develop and document business processes and accounting policies to strengthen internal controls and manage risks; communicate business risks appropriately

Resolve escalated client service issues and strengthen stakeholder relationships

Educate, mentor, and assist team members in finance and non-finance roles

Foster a client-driven, proactive environment with a hands-on approach to key initiatives

Qualifications and Skills:

• CPA designation is required
• Minimum three (3) years of Controller or senior finance experience, or equivalent
• Knowledge of retail automotive dealership accounting procedures is an asset
• Proven leadership skills, including delegation, motivation, teaching, and mentoring
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, both verbal and written
• Strong business acumen and common sense
• Customer-focused, responsive to internal and external client needs
• Ability to innovate and improve legacy processes
• Proficiency in accounting software; experience with CDK is an asset

Ideal candidates will have automotive or dealership experience, strong accounting skills, leadership experience, and a positive attitude. They should be motivated to overcome obstacles, embrace challenges, and pursue continuous improvement.

What Birchwood Can Offer You:

• Competitive salary with potential bonuses and commissions based on success
• Comprehensive benefits package including vacation, health, dental, vision, and employee assistance programs, with flexible options
• RSP matching up to $5,000 after one year of employment
• Employee referral bonus program
• Opportunities for career development and internal promotion
• Learning and development programs
• Wellness initiatives
• Corporate discounts and group savings
• Volunteer programs such as Dollars for Doing
• Company events including Birchwood Bucks, Circle of Excellence, and holiday parties

Birchwood is Manitoba’s largest automotive retailer, with 24 franchises, four collision repair centres, and four Birchwood Credit Solutions locations. We provide sales, service, and parts to meet automotive needs. We pride ourselves on a diverse workforce and a commitment to our team members, customers, partners, and communities. Our values include gratitude, personal leadership, trust, respect, continuous improvement, and generosity.

Birchwood is an equal-opportunity employer dedicated to creating a diverse workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, or veteran status. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request. Please email your request to: