HHM Talent is assisting an automotive client search for a Chief Financial Officer in Rockville, MD.

Position Overview

A well-established, high-volume automotive dealership group in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area is seeking an experienced Chief Financial Officer to join its executive leadership team.

The CFO will serve as a trusted strategic partner to the Dealer Principal, providing executive-level financial oversight and acting as the organization's financial "eyes and ears." This is an ideal opportunity for a hands-on automotive finance leader who can protect the organization's financial strength, support operational decisions, and help guide its long-term direction.

The company's financial records and processes are currently in strong condition. This role is not being hired to correct major accounting problems or lead a restructuring. The incoming CFO will inherit a stable operation while having the authority to improve or reorganize functions where beneficial.

Key Responsibilities

Provide strategic financial leadership across multiple dealerships and related operations.
Review monthly dealership financial statements, identify trends, and communicate meaningful insights to the Dealer Principal.
Oversee the accuracy, timeliness, and integrity of financial reporting.
Partner with dealership leadership to evaluate financial performance, profitability, cash flow, expenses, and operational opportunities.
Lead and support the dealership controllers and centralized accounting team.
Maintain strong relationships with banks, lenders, manufacturers, insurance providers, CPAs, and other outside partners.
Lead contract review and negotiation for banking, insurance, benefits, vendor, and other significant business agreements.
Oversee financial matters related to both self-insured and fully insured employee medical plans.
Evaluate internal controls, financial processes, and organizational structure, recommending improvements when appropriate.
Support forecasting, budgeting, capital planning, risk management, and long-term business strategy.
Serve as a trusted advisor and leadership presence when the Dealer Principal is away from the dealerships.
Help develop the organization's long-tenured accounting team and prepare for future leadership transitions.
Maintain a strong understanding of dealership performance through Reynolds & Reynolds reporting and financial data.

Qualifications

At least five years of progressive accounting and financial leadership experience within the automotive dealership industry required.
Current or previous experience as a multi-store Controller, Corporate Controller, CFO, or in a comparable dealership leadership role.
Strong understanding of dealership financial statements, accounting controls, banking relationships, insurance, and operational performance.
Experience overseeing multiple dealership locations or legal entities strongly preferred.
Demonstrated ability to lead experienced, long-tenured employees with credibility and respect.
Strategic and commercially minded, with the willingness to remain involved in day-to-day financial operations.
Strong communication, decision-making, and relationship-management skills.
Reynolds & Reynolds experience preferred.
Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field preferred.
CPA designation is preferred but not required. Practical dealership leadership and business judgment are more important than a purely technical accounting background.
Candidates located in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area are preferred; relocation assistance may be considered for the right individual.

Compensation and Benefits

Base salary of $200,000–$250,000, based on experience
Performance-based bonus opportunity
401(k) with a 50% company match on employee contributions up to 4%
Comprehensive family medical coverage through CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield
Company demo vehicle

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