Kristie Nichols

Kristie Nichols

Controller

Kristie Nichols began her career with Cable Dahmer Automotive Group in 1997 at just 19, starting as an office helper focused on wholesale and dealer trade work. Her eagerness to learn opened doors to roles in car sales, finance assisting, and producing, where she spent nearly a decade before becoming office manager in 2007.

When the company expanded in 2017, she played a key role in creating a centralized accounting office that became a model for others. Guided by her faith, loyalty, integrity, and teamwork, Kristie married in 2010, started her family in 2012, and is the proud mom of two boys. She continues to em brace the challenges and opportunities of the automotive industry she loves.

HOW DO YOU BRING CORE VALUES INTO YOUR ROLE?

Kristie’s values are rooted in her faith and love for family, and she leads with loyalty, integrity, and teamwork. She brings these principles into her daily role by:

• Coaching: Offer guidance and support to your team members, helping them understand financial processes and improve their skills. Conduct regular training sessions or one-on-one coaching to develop their capabilities. Lead by example, demonstrating a willingness to teach and learn.
• Integrity: Maintain transparency and honesty in financial reporting and interactions. Uphold ethical standards, even when faced with pressure or challenges. Build trust with your team and colleagues through consistent honest actions.
• Process Loyalty: Follow established procedures diligently and encourage your team to do the same. Continuously seek process improvements that align with company standards. Be a champion for process compliance and efficiency.
• Growth Mindset: Embrace challenges as opportunities to learn and improve. Seek feedback and look for ways to enhance your skills and knowledge. Support your team in adopting a similar mindset, fostering innovation and adaptability.
• Attitude: Maintain a positive and proactive attitude, especially during busy or stressful periods

NON-NEGOTIABLE FINANCIAL DISCIPLINES

Daily

• Reconcile cash and bank accounts
• Update accounts receivable and post all transactions
• Monitor daily cash flow- Approve and document customer credits and payments

Weekly

• Perform full bank reconciliations
• Review payables and receivables
• Ensure all documentation is compliant and audit-ready

WHAT RISKS ARE WE NOT SEEING THAT WE SHOULD PREPARE FOR NOW?

While supply chain disruption is well-known, its long-term impact on inventory, lead times, and costs can be underestimated. Delays and rising prices can lead to sales losses and tighter margins.

Next steps:

• Diversify suppliers
• Maintain inventory reserves
• Build strong vendor relationships
• Monitor global developments

Kristie remains excited about the opportunities the automotive industry presents. With her deep experience and forward-thinking mindset, she continues to play a key role in ensuring financial stability and operational excellence across Cable Dahmer Automotive Group.