Hi, I’m Kathi Kruse.

Automotive retail advisor, Automotive CFO-To-Go®, dealership profitability specialist and car gal.

Kruse Control Inc. was born from over 25 years of experience creating and managing inclusive, customer-focused environments in multiple, wildly successful car dealerships across Southern California. It may sound strange, but I feel at home in a dealership.

Our story starts with deep automotive roots. My grandfather was a Buick dealer in downtown Los Angeles in the 1950’s-60’s. His majority partner was Charles S. Howard, a pioneer car dealer and early Buick distributor, who turned to horse racing and became internationally known as the owner of Seabiscuit, the famous race horse. My grandfather was the CFO at Howard Buick, which was on Figueroa Street, just south of what is now Staples Center (yes, I will always call it Staples).

Although my grandfather passed before I entered the workforce, his legacy inspired me to follow in his footsteps and make my mark in the automotive industry.

From my early days in sales to my roles as CFO, COO and GM, I’ve held every position in a dealership—except technician! Whether it was selling cars and/or service, overseeing financial operations, or building a dealership from the ground up, I’ve experienced the industry’s “blood, sweat, and tears” firsthand. This hands-on approach shaped my belief that strong relationships with employees, customers, and the community are the foundation of a thriving dealership.

Navigating the Industry’s Challenges

The automotive industry is at a crossroads, especially in dealership accounting. Over the past few years, the shortage of qualified controllers has become a pressing issue, with many dealers struggling to manage their financial operations effectively. This gap has led to costly mistakes and underwhelming results for retailers.

Introducing Automotive CFO-To-Go®

As a problem solver, I couldn’t ignore the growing need for financial expertise in dealerships. That’s why I created Automotive CFO-To-Go®, a flexible solution offering top-tier financial and operational strategies without the cost of a full-time CFO.

At Kruse Control Inc., we’re dedicated to empowering dealers to achieve their maximum profitability. By aligning financial expertise with strategic vision, we help owners and controllers forge a partnership that drives success.

Our Commitment to Excellence

Every dealership deserves the tools and guidance to thrive. At Kruse Control Inc., we combine decades of experience with a passion for innovation to deliver solutions that make a lasting impact. Whether it’s cleaning up accounting, controlling expenses, or streamlining operations, we’re here to help dealerships succeed in our ever-changing industry.

Let’s work together to build a stronger future for your dealership. Follow the money—follow the results.

Your Store on Kruse Control

Navigating the Modern Retail Landscape

In today’s high-octane retail environment, customers hold the power to shape their buying experiences. With unprecedented access to information, products, and services across digital channels, they choose when, where, and how they engage.

For dealers, this presents a dual challenge: leveraging the opportunities digital provides while managing financial pressures and operational hurdles.

If you’re feeling uncertain, frustrated, or overwhelmed, you’re not alone. The sheer volume of information and tools available can make it difficult to determine the best path for your organization. But if you’re reading this, you’re likely ready to make meaningful changes to solidify your dealership’s long-term success—and I’m here to help.

Too many dealers rely on patchwork tactics that lack cohesion, leading to inconsistent financials and unstable profitability. At Kruse Control, we offer a comprehensive, proven approach to set your business up for lasting success.

How Kruse Control and Automotive CFO-To-Go® Can Help

Automotive CFO-To-Go® is a proven three-step system designed to help car dealers:

• Gain control over expenses
• Ensure clean, accurate financials
• Maximize profitability
• Minimize risk

All in half the time, so you can focus on growth—and finally sleep soundly at night.

Your Trusted Advisor

At Kruse Control, we go beyond quick fixes. We become your trusted advisor, helping you:

• Identify concerns and clarify needs
• Set measurable goals and achieve meaningful outcomes
• Implement tools for long-term efficiency
• Recognize when it’s time to pivot—or celebrate success

Most importantly, we eliminate the stress and frustration, replacing them with confidence and clarity.

Commitment That Pays Off

Yes, working with us requires a commitment—and we’re equally committed to your success. Building something great takes dedication, and we’ll be with you every step of the way. Together, we’ll lay the foundation for smarter, more strategic decisions that drive sustainable, long-term growth.

Let’s explore how we can work together—schedule your inquiry call today and take the first step toward transforming your dealership’s future.

Book an call now!

Even if you only have specific questions about how Automotive CFO-To-Go® could possibly work for your store.

Complete this short form and I’ll get back to you within 24 hours.