Controller / Office Manager

Jim Winter Automotive Group; Jackson (MI); On-site; USD 85,000 - 150,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Comprehensive medical, dental, and vis

401(k) plan with company match

Job summary

Jim Winter Automotive Group is seeking an experienced Auto Dealership Controller to lead the financial operations of a Buick GMC Cadillac dealership. You will oversee accounting, payroll, AP/AR, and financial reporting, partnering with leadership to ensure accuracy and strategic oversight.

The role requires 3–5+ years in dealership accounting, strong Excel skills, and familiarity with dealer software (Reynolds & Reynolds or Tekion).

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of automotive dealership accounting/controller experience.
• Strong Excel proficiency and advanced data handling.
• Experience with payroll/HR laws and compliance processes.
• Familiarity with Reynolds & Reynolds or Tekion software systems.
• Knowledge of Federal and Michigan tax filing requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor the accounting/office team to drive accuracy and productivity.
• Prepare and submit monthly financial statements to ownership and leadership.
• Oversee AP/AR, payroll, reconciliations, and floor plan financing.
• Collaborate with department managers to analyze profitability and control costs.
• Ensure HR administrative tasks comply with regulations.

Skills

Automotive dealership experience

Leadership

Payroll/compliance knowledge

Tax filing knowledge (Federal & MI)

Excel proficiency

Tools

Reynolds & Reynolds

Tekion

Job description

Auto Dealership Controller

Join a Team Built on Precision and Strategy

Are you a detail-oriented Leader who thrives on accuracy and technical mastery. If you are thorough, proactive and move with intentionality, you will find a home on our growing team. We value your ability to research, maintain a high standard of technical expertise, and provide the steady, logical oversight necessary to Lead our dealership's financial success in the accounting office.

Job Summary

We are seeking a high-level Controller/Office Manager to lead our financial and administrative operations at Jim Winter Buick GMC Cadillac. This role is a vital partner to ownership, combining strategic financial oversight with hands‑on leadership of our accounting team. You will ensure the dealership’s operational efficiency while maintaining strict financial integrity.

Key Responsibilities

• Team Leadership: Supervise and mentor office staff to ensure high productivity and a positive work culture.
• Financial Integrity: Prepare and submit accurate monthly financial statements to General Motors and dealership leadership team.
• Financial Operations: Manage AP/AR, payroll, bank reconciliations, and vehicle floor plan financing.
• Operational Support: Partner with Department Managers to analyze profitability and control expenses.
• Compliance: Oversee HR administrative tasks and ensure compliance with all federal, state, and manufacturer regulations.

Required Qualifications

• Experience: 3-5+ years of automotive dealership accounting/controller experience.
• Software Proficiency: Candidates with experience in Reynolds & Reynolds or Tekion are strongly preferred.
• Proficiency in Federal and Michigan Tax filing requirements & process
• Proficiency in payroll / HR laws
• Technical Skills: Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel.
• Leadership: Proven ability to lead a team in a fast-paced retail environment.
• Exhibits the Jim Winter Core Values (B.A.S.I.C.S.), below.

Selection Process

• As part of our commitment to placing people in roles where they will naturally thrive, all applicants are required to complete a Culture Index survey. This brief assessment helps us understand your unique work style and strengths.

Compensation & Benefits

• Total Earning Potential: $85,000 - $150,000+ per year.
• Structure: Competitive base salary plus a Bi-Annual Bonus based on dealership profitability.
• Benefits: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus a 401(k) plan with company match.
• Environment: A professional, stable work environment within a family-owned dealership.

Target Start Date

We are looking primarily for the right fit for our team. The start date is flexible, though we prefer to have the candidate start as soon as possible.

Our Core Values: BASICS

At Jim Winter Automotive Group, we pride ourselves on being "Winter-ized." Our culture is built on the BASICS:

• Boundaryless: We serve our guests' needs over short-term goals and find ways to say "Yes.".
• Accountable: We take responsibility for our careers and company, setting SMART goals to get it right the first time.
• Service: We create lifelong customers by doing the difficult things other dealers won't.
• Integrity: We do what is right, not what is easy, and always act in a professional, honest manner.
• Commitment: We hire the area's best team to provide a "Best in Class" experience.
• Stability: We bring negatives up and positives down (no gossip) and invest in our team for the long term.