Financial Controller Windsor

Location:

Windsor, ON (On-site)

Vacancy Type:
Existing Position

Our client is a well‑established automotive dealership operating in the Windsor‑Essex region, offering new and pre‑owned vehicles along with service and financing solutions. The business is supported by multiple entities and is focused on strengthening financial operations and supporting continued growth.

The Controller will take full ownership of the accounting function across multiple entities. This is a fully in‑office role (5 days per week) and requires a hands‑on approach, with a focus on cleaning up existing processes, improving reporting, and establishing structure and accountability within finance.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a dynamic environment, enjoys solving complex problems, and wants to make a meaningful operational impact.

• Accounting & Reporting
  • Prepare monthly financial statements across operating and holding companies
  • Lead month‑end close (target: 3‑day close)
  • Manage year‑end preparation and coordinate with external auditors
  • Oversee general ledger, reconciliations, and intercompany transactions
  • Ensure timely and accurate tax filings
• Operational Oversight
  • Monitor and analyze key dealership KPIs, including gross profit and Finance & Insurance (F&I) metrics
  • Maintain and enhance internal reporting tools used by department managers
  • Review contracts and identify opportunities for cost savings or improved financial outcomes
  • Provide ongoing financial insights to ownership and support business decision‑making
  • Work closely with the General Manager to help department managers better understand and manage their expenses
• Payroll & HR Financial Oversight
  • Review bi‑weekly payroll, including hourly, salary, commissions, and bonus structures
  • Provide financial oversight in a fully unionized environment
  • Support HR‑related processes, including benefits administration, training tracking, and reporting through HR systems
  • Act as a point of escalation for payroll and benefits‑related matters when required
• Process Improvement
  • Address existing accounting gaps, including:
    • Reconciliations
    • Government remittances
    • Year‑end readiness
    • Process inconsistencies across entities
  • Implement improved processes, controls, and efficiencies across the finance function
  • Support cross‑training within the accounting team
• Leadership
  • Manage and support a small team (Accounts Payable and Office Manager)
  • Provide guidance, structure, and accountability across the accounting function
  • Act as a key finance partner to ownership
• Strategic & Additional Responsibilities
  • Manage banking relationships and support financing activities
  • Participate in vendor negotiations (benefits, insurance, and key service providers)
  • Support annual negotiations for employee benefits and insurance policies
  • Contribute to union‑related financial planning and negotiations

• CPA designation required
• Experience working in multi‑entity accounting environments, with a strong understanding of full‑cycle accounting and financial reporting
• Automotive dealership experience or public accounting is considered an asset
• Experience working in a unionized environment is an asset
• Hands‑on and proactive approach, with strong problem‑solving skills
• Ability to work independently and take ownership of responsibilities
• Comfortable working on‑site in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment