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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial planning, manage accounts, and oversee cash flow for a dynamic dealership.
- Company: Join a rapidly growing used car dealership with over 1,000 vehicles in inventory.
- Benefits: Enjoy a clear career path to Finance Director or CFO and a supportive team environment.
- Why this job: Be a key player in financial strategy and company growth while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in the Motor Trade sector; ACCA, CIMA, or ACA qualified preferred.
- Other info: Work onsite in Watford, Monday to Friday, with a focus on team development.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 84000 £ per year.
Job Description
Job Title: Senior Dealership AccountantLocation: WatfordSalary: £50,000 – £60,000 per annumHours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 6:00pmWork Arrangement: OnsiteReports To: Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)Industry: Automotive (Used Car Dealership)Team Management: 4 Accounts AssistantsCareer Progression: Pathway to Finance Director or CFO within 2-3 years
Company Overview
We are a rapidly growing used car dealership group with multiple locations and a live inventory of over 1,000 vehicles. We’re now looking for an experienced Dealership Accountant to lead the finance function at our Watford site. This is a pivotal role offering the opportunity to influence financial strategy and play a key part in the company’s continued expansion. A clear route to Finance Director or CFO is available for the right candidate.
Key Responsibilities
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Financial Planning & Strategy – Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial planning activities to support growth targets
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Management Accounts – Produce timely and accurate monthly management accounts, highlighting key performance insights
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Cash Flow & Stock Funding – Oversee cash flow and ensure effective stock funding strategies are in place
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Financial Controls & Compliance – Maintain robust internal controls and ensure compliance with VAT, HMRC, and other regulations
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Audit & Tax – Manage year-end accounts, audits, and tax filings; liaise with external auditors and advisors
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Process Improvement – Continuously identify and implement efficiencies across financial processes
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Team Leadership – Manage and develop a team of 4 Accounts Assistants, fostering a high-performance culture
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Stakeholder Engagement – Work closely with the CCO and other senior leaders to provide financial insight and support strategic decision-making
Requirements
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Industry Experience: Minimum 2 years in the Motor Trade sector in a Financial Controller, Dealership Accountant, or Finance Manager role
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Qualifications: ACCA, CIMA, or ACA qualified (or part-qualified with extensive relevant experience)
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Systems Knowledge: Advanced experience with Xero; knowledge of Dealer Management Systems (DMS) is highly advantageous
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Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead and develop finance teams in a hands-on environment
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Analytical Strength: Excellent financial analysis and commercial problem-solving skills
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Detail-Oriented: High standards of accuracy in reporting and compliance
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Communication: Strong interpersonal and reporting skills, confident liaising with senior management and external stakeholders
Dealership Accountant employer: AHR TALENT LTD
Contact Detail:
AHR TALENT LTD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Dealership Accountant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the automotive industry, particularly the motor trade sector. Understanding the specific financial challenges and opportunities within this field will help you demonstrate your expertise during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience with financial software, especially Xero and Dealer Management Systems (DMS). Being able to discuss how you've used these tools to improve financial processes can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences managing finance teams. Be ready to share examples of how you've developed team members and fostered a high-performance culture in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Network with professionals in the automotive finance sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who can provide insights or even referrals for the Dealership Accountant position.
We think you need these skills to ace Dealership Accountant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in the automotive industry, particularly in roles like Financial Controller or Dealership Accountant. Emphasise your qualifications such as ACCA, CIMA, or ACA and any specific systems knowledge, especially with Xero.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your leadership skills and experience managing finance teams. Mention your ability to produce management accounts and oversee cash flow, linking these directly to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, include specific examples of how you've improved financial processes or contributed to strategic decision-making in previous roles. Quantify your achievements where possible to demonstrate your impact.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any spelling or grammatical errors. Ensure that all information is accurate and that your documents are formatted professionally to make a strong impression.
How to prepare for a job interview at AHR TALENT LTD
✨Showcase Your Industry Knowledge
Make sure to demonstrate your understanding of the automotive industry, particularly the motor trade sector. Be prepared to discuss recent trends and how they might impact financial strategies in a dealership setting.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a team of Accounts Assistants, be ready to share examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Discuss your approach to fostering a high-performance culture and developing team members.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to financial planning, compliance, and cash flow management. Brush up on your knowledge of VAT regulations and internal controls, as well as your experience with Xero and Dealer Management Systems.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Skills
Be prepared to discuss specific instances where your analytical skills have led to improved financial outcomes. Use concrete examples to illustrate your problem-solving abilities and how you've contributed to process improvements in previous roles.