At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead finance operations and ensure accurate reporting across two prestigious dealerships.
- Company: Join the family-owned Patterson Cheney Cars and Trucks, a leader in luxury automotive retail.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, company vehicle, employee discounts, and career development opportunities.
- Other info: Long-term career security with a respected business established in 1915.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a high-performing finance role within a renowned automotive brand.
- Qualifications: Experience in dealership accounting and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 75600 - 92400 £ per year.
Mercedes-Benz Brighton and Mornington are renowned for delivering exceptional customer experiences, premium service, and automotive excellence. As part of Patterson Cheney Cars and Trucks, one of Australia's largest and most respected family-owned automotive groups, we continue to set the benchmark in luxury automotive retailing. We are seeking an experienced Financial Controller / Dealership Accountant to lead the finance function across both dealerships. Reporting to the Group Financial Controller, you will play a critical role in financial governance, reporting accuracy, profitability analysis, compliance, and strategic decision-making. This is an outstanding opportunity for a dealership accounting professional looking to take ownership of a high-performing finance operation within a prestigious automotive brand.
What's on Offer?
- Competitive salary package plus company vehicle or vehicle allowance.
- Leadership role within Victoria's leading Mercedes-Benz dealer group.
- Direct exposure to senior leadership and strategic business initiatives.
- Opportunity to influence dealership performance and financial outcomes.
- Career development within a large, growing automotive group.
- Employee discounts on vehicles, servicing, and parts.
- Bunnings Power Pass trade discounts.
- Employee Assistance Program.
- Long-term career security with a family-owned business established in 1915.
About the Role
Reporting to and supporting our Mercedes-Benz Group Financial Controller, you will be a trusted Financial Controller for Mercedes-Benz Brighton and Mornington and will:
- Oversee all financial and accounting operations across both dealerships.
- Prepare monthly management accounts, financial statements, and reporting packs.
- Deliver timely analysis of dealership performance, profitability, and key financial metrics.
- Partner with operational leaders to support budgeting, forecasting, and business planning.
- Lead month-end and year-end processes, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
- Manage balance sheet reconciliations, accruals, and fixed asset reporting.
- Prepare and review profit and loss statements and performance reporting.
- Ensure compliance with GST, LCT, Stamp Duty, FBT, and relevant statutory obligations.
- Support external audits and maintain strong internal controls.
- Oversee key accounting functions including creditors, debtors, bank reconciliations, stock control, and cash management.
- Identify opportunities to improve financial processes, reporting, and operational efficiencies.
- Provide leadership, guidance, and support across dealership finance and administration teams.
About You
To succeed in this role, you will bring:
- Proven experience as a Financial Controller, Dealership Accountant, or Senior Accountant within the automotive industry.
- Strong understanding of dealership accounting principles and retail automotive operations.
- Relevant accounting or finance qualifications.
- Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Advanced Excel and financial reporting capabilities.
- Strong commercial acumen and ability to influence stakeholders.
- Experience with dealership management systems, ideally ERA.
- Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
- High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
- A proactive approach with the ability to work independently and lead improvements.
- Current Victorian Driver's Licence.
Mercedes-Benz Brighton, Mornington, Waverley and Berwick form part of Patterson Cheney Cars and Trucks, one of Australia's largest privately owned automotive businesses. Employing approx. 1,000 team members, we proudly represent some of the world's most recognised automotive and truck brands.
Apply Now
If you're an experienced dealership finance professional looking for your next leadership challenge, click Apply Now. This rare opportunity has no closing date, and applications will be reviewed as received. Successful applicants will be required to complete a National Police Check and hold unrestricted Australian working rights. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds.
Financial Controller - Mercedes-Benz Brighton & Mornington employer: Patterson Cheney HR
Patterson Cheney Mercedes-Benz Brighton offers an exceptional work environment for Reconditioning / Roadworthy Technicians, featuring a competitive salary and lucrative commission structure within a prestigious dealership. Employees benefit from ongoing training, career development opportunities, and a supportive team culture that fosters collaboration and professional growth. As part of one of Australia's largest privately owned automotive groups, you will enjoy job security and access to exclusive dealership discounts, making it a rewarding place to advance your career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Financial Controller - Mercedes-Benz Brighton & Mornington
✨Tap into Campus Networks
If you're still in uni, don’t forget to engage with your campus's career services and attend finance-related events. Banks often do presentations and recruitment drives on campus, so put yourself out there and make use of these opportunities to show off your passion for the field.
✨Get Certified
Consider pursuing relevant certifications like the CFA or ACCA while you’re job hunting. They not only beef up your CV but also connect you with professional bodies which can lead to networking opportunities and even job openings in banking and financial services.
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Don’t shy away from reaching out directly to firms like Patterson Cheney HR. Use their websites and apply through them, but also consider following up with a polite email to express your enthusiasm. Being proactive can make a huge difference in getting noticed in the competitive financial services sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Financial Controller - Mercedes-Benz Brighton & Mornington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Numbers!:In the banking and financial services world, quantifiable achievements are key. Make sure your CV highlights your grades in relevant subjects, any financial certifications you hold, and specific projects where you've delivered measurable results. Employers love to see how your skills translate into real-world success.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Role:When applying for a full-time position, your cover letter should make a direct connection between your experience and the job description. Don't just state your enthusiasm for finance—dive into how your background in banking or financial analysis sets you apart. Let your passion shine through while being specific about what you can bring to Patterson Cheney HR.
Include Relevant Financial Software Experience:If you've worked with financial modelling tools or software like Excel, SAP, or specific analytical tools during your studies or internships, bring that up! Highlighting your proficiency can really make your application pop and show you're ready to hit the ground running in a full-time role.
Research and Reflect:Before hitting that 'apply' button on Patterson Cheney HR's website, do a little digging. Look up their recent projects, values, and culture. Reflecting their ethos in your application can make a huge difference and show you’re genuinely interested in being part of the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Patterson Cheney HR
✨Brush Up on Financial Analysis Skills
Make sure you're well-versed in financial concepts and analytical techniques relevant to banking and financial services. Get comfortable with tools like Excel for modelling or financial forecasting, as technical questions in this area are common during interviews with Patterson Cheney HR.
✨Prepare for Case Studies
Expect to tackle case studies that demonstrate your problem-solving skills in real-world banking scenarios. Familiarise yourself with the types of problems you might face—think risk assessments or investment evaluations—and be ready to articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Show Your Passion for Finance
Since this is a full-time position, employers at Patterson Cheney HR will be keen to see your genuine interest in finance. Be prepared to discuss recent industry trends or news articles that excite you, showcasing your enthusiasm and engagement with the field.
✨Network with Industry Professionals
Before your interview, reach out to current or former Patterson Cheney HR employees on platforms like LinkedIn. They'll offer unique insights into the company's culture and the interview process, which can give us a delightful edge in showcasing a good fit for the team.
