At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead financial operations for 15 dealership sites, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Company: Drive Motor Retail is a dynamic automotive retailer based in Leicester City Centre.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, Monday to Friday hours, and a vibrant office environment.
- Other info: Opportunity to work closely with senior leadership and enhance financial efficiency.
- Why this job: Join a fast-paced industry, make an impact, and develop your finance career.
- Qualifications: Qualified Accountant with automotive retail experience and strong Excel skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 60000 £ per year.
Head Office Accountant - Drive Motor Retail (Leicester City Centre)
Salary: £50,000 per annum
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:30am - 5:00pm
Location: Office-based, Leicester City Centre
Drive Motor Retail is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Head Office Accountant to join our central finance function in Leicester. This is a pivotal position within the business, overseeing the financial operations of 15 dealership sites across the UK.
The successful candidate must have a strong background in the automotive industry, with demonstrable experience in multi-site dealership accounting. This role offers the opportunity to lead financial governance, reporting, and control across a diverse and fast-paced motor retail environment.
Key Responsibilities:
- Full oversight of financial reporting across all Drive Motor Retail locations
- Preparation of monthly management accounts, balance sheet reconciliations, and group-level financial summaries
- Liaison with Site Accountants and General Managers to ensure compliance and financial accuracy
- Monitoring and controlling dealership working capital, accruals, prepayments, and provisions
- Oversight of payroll reconciliations and collaboration with HR for accurate reporting of salaries, bonuses, and benefits
- Management of pension scheme contributions and compliance with auto-enrolment legislation
- Ensuring accurate VAT, PAYE, and corporation tax submissions in conjunction with external auditors and HMRC requirements
- Support and audit preparation for manufacturer composite submissions and quarterly reviews
- Lead the integration and consistency of accounting systems and processes across all sites (including DMS platforms such as Kerridge/CDK or Pinewood)
- Drive improvements in financial efficiency, cost control, and internal reporting tools
- Act as the key finance contact for senior leadership, external auditors, and stakeholders
- Qualified Accountant (ACA / ACCA / CIMA) or equivalent with significant post-qualification experience
- Must have recent and relevant experience within the automotive retail sector
- Strong background in multi-dealership financial oversight and centralised accounting environments
- High proficiency in Excel, financial reporting tools, and motor trade DMS systems
- Thorough understanding of UK accounting standards, tax regulations, and pension legislation
- Confident communicator with the ability to build strong cross-functional relationships
- Proactive, analytical, and capable of operating independently under pressure
Head Office Accountant in Leicester employer: Drive Motor Retail
Drive Motor Retail is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Leicester City Centre. With a strong focus on employee development and a culture that values collaboration and innovation, we provide our team with opportunities for growth and advancement within the automotive industry. Our competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, combined with the chance to lead financial operations across multiple dealership sites, make this a rewarding place to build your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head Office Accountant in Leicester
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific financial systems used in the automotive industry, such as Kerridge/CDK or Pinewood. Highlight any experience you have with these systems during your conversations with us to demonstrate your readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the automotive retail sector. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with others who may provide insights or referrals that could help you stand out when applying for this position.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in multi-site dealership accounting in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've managed financial operations across multiple locations, as this is a key requirement for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your analytical skills by being prepared to discuss how you've driven improvements in financial efficiency and cost control in previous roles. This will demonstrate your proactive approach and ability to add value to our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head Office Accountant in Leicester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in the automotive industry and multi-site dealership accounting. Use specific examples that demonstrate your financial oversight and management skills relevant to the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the position and the company. Mention your qualifications (ACA/ACCA/CIMA) and how your background aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Relevant Skills:Emphasise your proficiency in Excel and financial reporting tools, as well as your understanding of UK accounting standards and tax regulations. These are crucial for the Head Office Accountant role.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is vital for an accounting position.
How to prepare for a job interview at Drive Motor Retail
✨Showcase Your Automotive Expertise
Make sure to highlight your experience in the automotive industry during the interview. Discuss specific examples of how you've managed financial operations in multi-site dealership environments, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Demonstrate Financial Acumen
Be prepared to discuss your knowledge of financial reporting, management accounts, and compliance with UK accounting standards. Bring examples of past reports or projects that showcase your ability to oversee financial governance effectively.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
As a Head Office Accountant, you'll need to liaise with various stakeholders. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing complex financial concepts or processes.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions related to financial tools and systems, particularly DMS platforms like Kerridge/CDK or Pinewood. Brush up on your technical knowledge and be ready to explain how you've used these systems to improve financial efficiency.
