Job Description
Financial Controller – Used Car Dealership
Location: Watford
Salary: £50,000 – £60,000 per annum
Hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00am – 6:00pm
Work Arrangement: Onsite
Reports To: Chief Commercial Officer (CCO)
Team Management: 4 Accounts Assistants
Career Path: Clear route to Finance Director or CFO within 2–3 years
About Us
We are a fast-growing, multi-location used car supermarket, retailing over 1,000 vehicles at any given time. As we continue to scale, we are seeking a driven and detail-oriented Financial Controller to lead financial operations at our Watford site.
You will play a key role in shaping financial strategy, driving process improvements, and ensuring robust compliance — all within a fast-paced, high-volume motor trade environment. The ideal candidate will bring dealership finance experience, leadership ability, and a deep understanding of VAT Margin Schemes.
Key Responsibilities
* Financial Strategy & Planning: Drive budgeting, forecasting, and long-term planning.
* Management Reporting: Prepare monthly management accounts, analysis, and performance dashboards.
* Cash Flow & Stock Funding: Manage cash flow and stock funding, ensuring optimal liquidity.
* Financial Controls & Compliance: Maintain robust controls and ensure compliance with VAT, HMRC, and VAT Margin Schemes specific to dealerships.
* Audit & Tax: Oversee year-end accounts, audits, and tax filings. Liaise with external accountants and auditors.
* Process Improvements: Streamline finance processes for efficiency and accuracy.
* Team Management: Lead and support a team of 4 Accounts Assistants; promote development and accountability.
* Stakeholder Engagement: Partner with leadership to provide insights, influence decision-making, and support commercial strategy.
Requirements
* Qualifications: Fully ACCA, CIMA, or ACA qualified (Part-qualified may be considered with strong relevant experience).
* Industry Experience: Minimum 2+ years in a dealership or motor trade finance environment.
* VAT Margin Scheme Expertise:Must have hands-on experience with VAT Margin Schemes in a dealership context.
* Software Skills: Strong knowledge of Xero and Excel (including formulas, pivot tables, VLOOKUPs) is essential. Experience with Dealer Management Systems (DMS) is a plus.
* Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead, coach, and develop finance teams.
* Communication: Clear and confident communication with internal and external stakeholders.
* Analytical: Ability to interpret financial data into actionable insights.
What We Offer
* Competitive salary of £50,000 – £60,000 depending on experience
* Performance-related bonuses and incentives
* Fast-track progression to Finance Director or CFO within 2–3 years
* Onsite role in a growing, high-performing team
* Exposure to a dynamic retail environment working with a wide range of vehicle brands
* Supportive, fast-paced, and hands-on leadership team