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.

Position Summary and Responsibilities:

The Assistant Controller is responsible for leading the Company's general ledger and core accounting functions to ensure accurate, timely, and compliant financial reporting. Reporting to the Vice President & Corporate Controller, this role provides leadership in the financial close process, strengthens internal controls, ensures compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), and drives continuous improvement in accounting processes and systems. The Assistant Controller serves as a key liaison across Corporate Accounting and divisional finance teams, promoting consistency, collaboration, and operational excellence company wide.

Financial Close and Reporting

• Lead and oversee month end, quarter end, and year end close processes to ensure accuracy and timeliness.
• Review general ledger activity to ensure completeness, proper classification, and compliance with GAAP.
• Analyze financial results and provide clear insight into key variances, trends, and performance drivers.
• Support preparation and review of financial statements and related reporting schedules.

Internal Controls and Compliance

• Maintain and strengthen internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure reporting integrity.
• Partner with Internal Audit to support compliance initiatives and foster a strong control environment.
• Ensure accounting policies and procedures align with GAAP and company standards.

Process Improvement and Systems Optimization

• Identify opportunities to improve accounting processes, workflows, and system efficiencies.
• Lead or support implementation of enhancements to accounting systems and reporting tools.
• Develop and document standardized procedures to promote consistency and scalability.

Leadership and Cross Functional Collaboration

• Provide technical accounting guidance and leadership to Corporate Accounting and divisional accounting teams, including Food and Beverage Division finance teams.
• Mentor and develop accounting staff, promoting accountability and professional growth.
• Serve as a key resource for cross functional initiatives and special projects.
• Provide strategic and administrative support to the Corporate Controller as needed.
• Perform additional duties as required to support business needs.

Education and/or Work Experience Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting or related field required.
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA) required.
• Minimum of ten years of progressive experience in accounting, including general ledger, accounts payable/receivable, and financial reporting.
• Prior industry experience preferred.
• Strong working knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting standards.
• Demonstrated experience leading and developing accounting professionals.

Core Competencies:

• Demonstrated strategic thinking with the ability to translate financial data into actionable business insights.
• Strong technical expertise in GAAP, financial reporting, and internal controls.
• Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proven leadership and team development capability.
• Commitment to process improvement and operational excellence.
• Effective cross functional collaboration and partnership.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate effectively and professionally across all organizational levels
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Sound judgment, integrity, and discretion in handling confidential financial matters.
• Ability to perform effectively in a fast paced, deadline driven environment.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to safely and successfully perform the essential job functions consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards.
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA and other federal, state and local standards
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 20 lbs

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