Controller

Job Description

Position Overview

We're a leading beverage distribution company based in New Jersey, seeking an experienced Controller to oversee all accounting and financial operations of the business.

This is a hands-on leadership role responsible for financial reporting, internal controls, cash flow management, and process improvement in a fast-paced distribution environment. The ideal candidate will bring strong accounting expertise, operational insight, and the ability to improve systems and reporting.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Management & Reporting

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• Oversee all accounting operations including general ledger, AR, AP, inventory, and payroll
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• Prepare accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements
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• Manage and execute the month-end and year-end close process
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• Maintain and reconcile all balance sheet accounts
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• Coordinate with external CPA firm for tax filings and year-end review
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Cash Flow & Working Capital Management

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• Monitor and manage cash flow and liquidity
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• Oversee accounts receivable and collections
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• Analyze and improve AR aging and customer credit policies
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• Manage vendor payments and optimize payment terms
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• Develop and maintain cash flow forecasts
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Inventory & Cost Accounting

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• Oversee inventory accounting and reconciliation
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• Ensure accurate inventory valuation and costing
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• Monitor and report on inventory variances and shrinkage
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• Partner with operations to improve inventory controls and processes
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Operational & Financial Analysis

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• Develop and maintain margin reporting by SKU, customer, and channel
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• Analyze profitability across key accounts (e.g., Costco, Jetro, Restaurant Depot, direct store delivery)
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• Support pricing and cost decisions with data-driven analysis
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• Prepare management reports and dashboards
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Compliance & Internal Controls

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• Establish and maintain strong internal controls
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• Ensure compliance with state and local regulations, including: New York State container deposit laws
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• Oversee sales tax filings and regulatory reporting
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• Support audit processes and documentation
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Systems & Process Improvement

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• Optimize use of Sage 100 ERP system
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• Identify and implement process improvements and automation
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• Leverage technology and AI tools to improve efficiency and reporting
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• Reduce manual processes and improve data accuracy
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Qualifications

Required

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• Minimum 5+ years experience as a Controller or equivalent role in a small to mid-sized business
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• Strong experience in distribution, beverage, or consumer goods industry
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• Hands-on experience with inventory and cost accounting
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• Experience managing accounts receivable, collections, and cash flow
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• Knowledge of New York State container deposit (bottle bill) accounting and reporting
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• Strong understanding of GAAP and financial reporting
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• Experience with ERP systems (preferably Sage 100 or similar)
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Preferred

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• CPA or public accounting background (e.g., audit experience)
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• Experience working in a family-owned or entrepreneurial business
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• Experience implementing systems improvements or automation
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• Advanced Excel and financial modeling skills
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• IMPORTANT
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Key Attributes

Hands-on and detail-oriented

Strong organizational and leadership skills

Ability to operate in a fast-paced, operationally driven environment

Excellent communication skills with both financial and non-financial teams

Proactive problem solver with a continuous improvement mindset

Compensation

Competitive salary commensurate with experience

Performance-based bonus

Health benefits and paid time off

Why Join Us

Established and growing beverage company with strong market presence

High-impact role with visibility to ownership

Opportunity to improve systems and drive operational efficiency

Collaborative, family-oriented work environment