Assistant Controller - Automotive Dealership Group

About the role

Preston Automotive Group is a multi-rooftop dealership group committed to delivering an exceptional experience to our customers and our communities. Our centralized accounting team supports operations across 25 locations, and we’re looking for a detail-driven Assistant Controller to grow with us.

This is a development role. You’ll work directly alongside our Controller, learning the full scope of dealership group accounting with the goal of taking on increasing ownership of month-end close, reporting, and multi-store oversight.

Location: Preston, Maryland.

Responsibilities

• Assist with month-end close across multiple dealership locations, including journal entries, accruals, and preparation of the monthly manufacturer financial statements.
• Reconcile balance sheet accounts, including cash, contracts in transit, vehicle inventory, floor plan, parts, WIP, payables, and receivables.
• Review and monitor schedules for aging, accuracy, and timely clearing of open items.
• Support the Controller with internal reporting, store performance metrics, and analysis for management.
• Help oversee and train office staff, including billing, payables, receivables, and title clerks.
• Ensure accurate processing of vehicle deals, F&I products, and factory incentives and holdbacks.
• Identify process improvements and help maintain strong internal controls.
• Take on special projects and cover for the Controller as needed.

Requirements

• 3+ years of accounting experience; automotive dealership accounting experience is a plus.
• Strong Excel skills and experience using and implementing AI to improve accounting workflows.
• Solid understanding of GAAP and account reconciliation.
• Highly organized, accurate, and able to manage deadlines across multiple entities.
• Clear communicator who’s comfortable working with store managers and office staff.
• Eagerness to learn and grow into greater leadership responsibility.
• Preferred: Bachelor’s degree in accounting; prior supervisory experience.

Benefits

• Salary range of $75,000 to $125,000, based on experience and qualifications.
• Competitive benefits package with 401k match.
• Direct mentorship from an experienced Controller and Director of Accounting.
• A clear path for growth and advancement.