Melissa Hinkle

Versatile and accomplished Financial Leader and Fiscal Officer with over two decades of expertise driving financial strategy, regulatory compliance, and operational efficiency across public sector and high-volume corporate environments. Proven track record in GAAP accounting, comprehensive financial statement preparation, and multi-location budget management. Adept at implementing innovative software solutions, streamlining complex reporting processes, and mentoring high-performing teams to ensure rigorous fiscal integrity and stakeholder confidence.

Fiscal Officer at Augusta Richmond County Library (2025-11 – Present)

Direct comprehensive fiscal operations and financial management for the county library system.

• Ensure strict adherence to governmental accounting standards, GAAP, and regulatory compliance protocols.
• Manage budget allocation, financial reporting, and expenditure controls to optimize public resources.

Market Controller at Mills Auto Group – Mercedes, Audi, BMW (4 locations) (2024-09 – 2025-11)

Spearheaded financial operations across four luxury dealerships, enhancing reporting accuracy and compliance while significantly reducing closing times.

• Led a dedicated team of accounting professionals, achieving timely month-end closes that improved overall financial visibility and operational efficiency.
• Implemented new financial software, driving measurable improvements in data accuracy and reducing manual entry errors.
• Maintained rigorous oversight of financial statements, ensuring adherence to corporate guidelines and bolstering stakeholder confidence.

Controller at Murphy Auto Group – Toyota, Infiniti, CDJR, Nissan (5 locations) (2022-10 – 2024-09)

Led financial operations for five high-volume dealerships, achieving timely, accurate reporting and substantial cost savings.

• Streamlined reporting workflows, cutting turnaround time by 30% and boosting data precision across all five locations.
• Implemented advanced accounting software and automated payroll processes, decreasing manual entry errors and establishing a reliable data management framework.
• Partnered with senior leadership to align financial strategies with business objectives, driving measurable growth and optimizing resource allocation.
• Mentored and developed junior finance staff, fostering a collaborative culture focused on continuous professional growth and best practices.

Controller at Jim Hudson Infiniti of Augusta (2017-02 – 2022-10)

Directed all accounting and dealership operations, delivering transparent financial reports to executive stakeholders.

• Analyzed complex financial data to identify cost-saving opportunities, implementing strategic controls that reduced unnecessary expenditures.
• Implemented an automated payroll system, significantly reducing processing time and minimizing calculation errors.
• Coordinated with cross-functional teams to ensure strict compliance with internal and manufacturer financial policies, strengthening accountability.
• Cultivated a supportive learning environment for junior staff, noticeably enhancing team capabilities and departmental dynamics.

Controller at Evans Kia (2014-03 – 2016-10)

• Directed daily accounting operations, complex financial reconciliations, and full-cycle payroll processes.
• Maintained strict compliance with all state regulatory frameworks and manufacturer operational requirements.

Office Manager at Kia of Augusta (2007-06 – 2014-02)

Supervised the dealership accounting staff and managed daily office operations, including AP/AR, payroll, and bank reconciliations.

Accounts Payable/Receivable Clerk at Kia of Augusta (2005-01 – 2007-06)

Payroll/Title Clerk at Fairway Ford of Augusta (2002-08 – 2005-01)

Bachelor of Science in Accounting – Paine College (2017)