Finance Manager - Dealership

Job PurposeThe Finance Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing the dealership's financial accounting, reporting, planning and analysis, treasury and cash management activities, ensuring the financial health of the dealership. This role involves producing accurate financial statements, providing detailed financial analysis, and supporting strategic financial planning and decision-making to optimize business performance and profitability.Key DutiesFinancial Accounting and ReportingOversee the preparation and maintenance of financial statements, including balance sheets, income statements, and cash flow statements, ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting standards (GAAP or IFRS).Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial reports for management and external stakeholders, highlighting key financial performance indicators.Coordinate year-end audits and collaborate with external auditors to ensure smooth and timely completion.Tax Accounting & ComplianceEnsure the chart of accounts is designed in accordance with tax department requirements and relevant tax laws.Ensure that all transactions are recorded in compliance with tax laws, regulations, and procedures, or as advised by the tax department.Provide all required data to the tax team within the agreed timeline and ensure accurate and timely filing of VAT, Corporate Tax, and Withholding Tax (if applicable).Post all necessary adjusting and closing entries in the system promptly after the submission of tax returns.Maintain proper documentation to support tax positions and ensure readiness for tax audits or inquiries.Monitor changes in tax legislation and coordinate with the tax department or external advisors to ensure continuous compliance.Ensure all intercompany/related party transactions are supported by applicable transfer pricing policies and fully documented in a timely manner.Assist in tax planning to optimize tax efficiency while maintaining full compliance.Ensure the accounting team is fully aware of tax updates and possesses the required knowledge.Ensure the team proactively participates in trainings conducted by the tax team and implements the guidance to avoid non-compliance.Ensure all tax advice is fully implemented in a timely manner.Optimize tax positions by preventing hidden tax losses, such as unclaimed input VAT.Budgeting and Financial PlanningLead the annual budgeting process, working closely with department heads to forecast revenue, expenses, and capital expenditures.Develop and maintain financial models to support long-term financial planning and strategic decision-making.Conduct variance analysis between actual and budgeted financial performance, identifying trends and providing recommendations to senior management.Financial AnalysisPerform in-depth financial analysis to support management in decision-making, including profitability analysis, cost analysis, and pricing strategies.Assess the dealership's financial performance, providing insights on key areas such as margins, liquidity, and working capital management.Assist in analyzing and evaluating financial performance for specific projects or investments, providing recommendations based on ROI and financial risks.Treasury and Cash ManagementOversee cash flow management to ensure the dealership has sufficient liquidity for day-to-day operations while maintaining optimal working capital levels.Manage relationships with banks and financial institutions, including negotiating lines of credit, managing cash balances, and overseeing cash forecasting.Develop and implement cash management strategies, including the effective use of available funds to meet the dealership's operational and strategic needs.Internal Controls and ComplianceImplement and monitor internal controls to safeguard the dealership's financial assets and ensure accurate financial reporting.Ensure compliance with tax regulations, financial reporting standards, and industry best practices.Assist in the development and enforcement of financial policies and procedures to ensure adherence to regulatory requirements and dealership standards.Cost Management and ProfitabilityWork with department heads to monitor and control operational costs, identifying opportunities for cost savings and operational efficiencies.Provide ongoing analysis of cost structures, identifying areas where profitability can be improved, and provide actionable recommendations to senior management.Team Leadership and CollaborationManage a team of finance and accounting professionals, providing guidance, support, and development opportunities.Foster cross-functional collaboration with other departments (e.g., Sales, Operations, HR) to ensure alignment on financial objectives and contribute to the dealership's overall performance.Decision Making Authority and ResponsibilityResponsible for approving financial transactions, ensuring accuracy, and maintaining compliance with accounting standards.Accountable for decisions related to financial planning, budgeting, cost management, and cash flow optimization.Has authority to implement financial controls and recommend financial strategies to senior management based on analysis and forecasting.KnowledgeFinancial Accounting Principles: In-depth knowledge of International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS), and dealership-specific financial practices.Financial Reporting Standards: Familiarity with preparing and interpreting financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.Financial Analysis and Metrics: Understanding of key financial performance indicators (KPIs), cost structures, and profitability analysis techniques.Tax Regulations: Knowledge of corporate tax laws, including sales tax, payroll tax, and other regulatory requirements relevant to the dealership industry.Cash Flow and Treasury Management: Comprehensive knowledge of managing cash flow, liquidity, and working capital, along with the strategies to optimize cash management.Internal Controls and Compliance: Familiarity with financial controls, risk management strategies, and compliance with industry regulations.SkillsFinancial Analysis: Strong ability to analyze complex financial data and provide insights into the dealership's financial performance, including variance analysis and trend forecasting.Financial Modelling: Proficient in building and interpreting financial models to assist with budgeting, forecasting, and investment decisions.Accounting Software Proficiency: Skilled in using accounting software and ERP systems (e.g., Oracle, Microsoft Dynamics, SAP, QuickBooks, etc.).Excel Expertise: Advanced proficiency in Excel, including creating financial reports, conducting data analysis, and utilizing functions for financial modelling.Budgeting and Forecasting: Ability to develop, manage, and review annual budgets, as well as to forecast financial performance and variances effectively.Report Generation and Presentation: Skilled in preparing detailed financial reports and presenting financial information in a clear and concise manner for management and stakeholders.CompetenciesLeadership: Strong leadership skills to manage a finance team, guide professional development, and foster a high-performing and collaborative environment.Problem-Solving: Demonstrated ability to identify issues, analyze root causes, and provide practical solutions to complex financial challenges.Attention to Detail: High level of accuracy and attention to detail in preparing financial documents and reports, ensuring compliance and minimizing errors.Strategic Thinking: Ability to think strategically and provide actionable financial insights that align with the dealership's long-term goals.Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to explain complex financial data to non-financial stakeholders and senior management.Time Management: Strong organizational skills to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.Collaboration: Collaborative mindset to work across departments (e.g., Sales, Operations, HR) to ensure alignment on financial objectives and foster teamwork.Qualification & ExperienceA Membership in a Professional Accounting Body.A bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field (is preferred).Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in financial management, with at least 5 years in a managerial role, preferably within the automotive or dealership industry.Proven experience in financial reporting, budgeting, financial analysis, cash management, and treasury operations.Strong knowledge of accounting software and financial management tools.