Assistant Controller

For more than a century, Ben E. Keith Company has been a leader in fine food and premium beverage distribution, and we strive to consistently exceed our customers' expectations.

Our Food Division is a complete broad line multi-state distributor, and our Beverage Division operates throughout the state of Texas as a proud distributor of Anheuser-Busch products, craft and import beer brands, spirits, and wine.

We are dedicated to the growth and success of our business, our customers, and our employees-continuing our commitment to delivering quality since 1906.

SUMMARY

Partner with the Division Controller to ensure divisional financial integrity, operational excellence, and regulatory compliance. Lead accounting operations including accounts payable, payroll, contract pricing, and month-end close processes while developing a high-performing finance team.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Financial Operations & Controls

* Lead month-end close processes including departmental gross profit reconciliation, account reconciliations, and suspense account resolution

* Oversee contract pricing and vendor payment tracking programs, ensuring accuracy, internal controls, and timely program renewals

* Manage petty cash operations, deposit activities, and invoice register maintenance with focus on accurate coding and pricing

* Ensure sales tax compliance across all jurisdictions, serving as subject matter expert for tax-related inquiries and audits

* Support internal and external audits by providing timely documentation and resolving audit findings

Team Leadership & Development

* Supervise and develop accounting personnel across accounts payable, payroll, cashiers, and contract pricing functions

* Drive process improvements and automation to enhance team efficiency and accuracy

* Conduct performance reviews, provide coaching, and create professional development plans for direct reports

* Foster cross-functional collaboration with Sales, Credit, Purchasing, Transportation, and Operations teams

Strategic Support

* Partner with Division Controller on operating budget creation, distribution, and variance analysis

* Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and strengthen financial controls

* Serve as key liaison between divisional operations and corporate finance on policy and system matters

CORE COMPETENCIES

* Strategic thinking with the ability to translate financial data into actionable business insights

* Strong leadership and team development capabilities

* Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills

* Outstanding attention to detail with commitment to accuracy

* Effective communication skills across all organizational levels

* Ability to prioritize multiple demands and meet tight deadlines

* Customer-focused mindset with service orientation

* Change management and continuous improvement orientation

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

* Bachelor's degree in accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA strongly preferred)

* Minimum 8 years progressive accounting experience, with at least 3 years in supervisory capacity

* Food distribution or wholesale industry experience is highly preferred

* Demonstrated track record of increasing responsibility and outstanding performance

* Advanced proficiency with ERP systems and enterprise financial platforms

* Expert-level Microsoft Excel skills, including financial modeling and data analysis

* Strong understanding of GAAP, internal controls, and regulatory compliance requirements

* Experience with process automation and digital transformation initiatives

Ben E. Keith (BEK) Company is one of the largest food and beverage distributors in the United States. We are a family-owned business with a long-standing tradition of supporting the diverse communities in which we live and work. Our competitive employee benefits provide health and financial protection to our employees and their families.

* Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance

* Short and Long Term Disability

* 401K with matching contribution

* Profit-Sharing Plan (100% company-paid)

* Employee Assistance Program

* Wellness Program

* Educational Assistance Program

* Paid Vacation and holidays

* Employee Credit Union

We have sought to create an environment in which the contributions of each employee at Ben E. Keith are fully valued. This means more than simply treating one another with respect; it also means considering how all our people can positively impact the quality of the decisions we make about our business.

Here at Ben E. Keith, we recognize that our workforce reflects the increasingly diverse nature of our society, and we want to do all we can to take advantage of that diversity with both our external and internal customers. We believe our differences are also our strengths and we want to do all we can to use those strengths to find more creative solutions for the business challenges we face. Ben E. Keith is an equal employment opportunity, affirmative action employer. VEVRAA Federal Contractor

Minorities/Females/Veterans/Disabled