HHM Talent is assisting a client search for an Automotive Chief Financial Officer in Woodland Hills, CA.
About The Role
We are seeking a hands-on and strategic Automotive Chief Financial Officer (CFO) who will work directly with the Owner and support a growing multi-store automotive platform. This is not a passive month-end position. It is a true executive leadership role that builds financial discipline, strengthens operational controls, manages complex transactions, and drives major growth initiatives such as M&A and real estate.
The ideal candidate is a business minded and people focused leader who is comfortable rolling up their sleeves. They will work closely with the Owner each day and take full ownership of all financial, audit, operational, and strategic functions across the company.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Leadership & Accounting Oversight
- Oversee all heavy accounting and audit functions
- Lead complex buy/sell transactions from the strategy side
- Manage real estate financials and related reporting
- Drive enterprise-wide financial strategy across multiple stores
- Implement new processes and explain the "why" behind changes to ownership
Executive & Operational Management
- Serve as a true partner to the Owner-working side-by-side daily
- Provide leadership across the organization and support multi-rooftop operations
- Oversee capital allocation and long-term growth strategies
- Lead M&A activity and acquisition integration
- Manage the internal IT function and ensure systems work cohesively
People, Vendors & Banking Relationships
- Build and maintain strong partnerships with vendors
- Meet with the Owner's bankers and maintain ongoing relationships (previous banking relationships not required)
- Lead and develop direct reports: Corporate Controller, Controller, 2 IT staff, and an assistant
- Support an in-house payroll function
Hands-On Leadership
- Be a "roll up your sleeves" leader who thrives in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment
- Grow with the Owner and maintain visibility into all areas of the business
- Support the management company and ensure operational alignment across all entities
Qualifications
- Strong accounting background (CPA not required)
- OEM and compliance expertise required
- 10+ years of executive-level financial leadership required
- 5+ years in a multi-rooftop automotive environment required
- Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, growth operations, and acquisition integration
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive executive-level compensation package
- Full health benefits, insurance plans, and 401(k)
- Confidential inquiries are welcomed and handled with discretion
