Controller / Accounts Payable (Spirits/Liquor Industry)

Job Overview:

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled experienced Controller-Accounts Payable with a strong background in the spirits/liquor industry to oversee and manage all accounts payable functions while supporting overall financial operations.

The ideal candidate will have direct experience working with alcohol distributors, suppliers, excise taxes, freight, and regulatory compliance unique to the beverage alcohol industry.

This role requires strong leadership, analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage high-volume transactions in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Accounts Payable Management.
• Oversee full-cycle accounts payable process including invoice review, coding, approvals, and payment processing.
• Manage high-volume vendor payments, including domestic and international suppliers.
• Ensure timely payment of suppliers, freight providers, bonded warehouses, and distributors.
• Reconcile vendor statements and resolve discrepancies promptly.
• Maintain accurate AP aging reports and cash flow projections.
• Industry-Specific Financial Oversight.
• Process and reconcile alcohol excise taxes (federal and state).
• Ensure compliance with TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau) and state liquor authority regulations.
• Manage inventory-related payables including landed costs, freight, duties, and import fees.
• Coordinate with operations and warehouse teams to reconcile inventory receipts with invoices.
• Support month-end close including inventory valuation and COGS reconciliation.
• Financial Controls & Compliance.
• Implement and maintain internal controls to safeguard company assets.
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and company accounting policies.
• Assist with audits (internal, external, and regulatory).
• Monitor and improve AP workflows and approval processes.
• Maintain vendor W-9s and prepare 1099 filings.
• Leadership & Reporting.
• Supervise and mentor AP staff (if applicable).
• Collaborate with Purchasing, Operations, and Sales teams.
• Provide reporting on vendor spend, cash requirements, and cost trends.
• Assist CFO/Finance Director with budgeting and forecasting related to payables and inventory costs.

Qualifications:

• Bachelors degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 5+ years of accounting experience, with at least 2–3 years in a supervisory or Controller-level role.
• Direct experience in the spirits, wine, beer, or beverage alcohol industry required.
• Strong knowledge of excise taxes, TTB reporting, and liquor distribution regulations.
• Experience with inventory accounting and cost allocation (landed cost, freight, duties).
• Proficiency in ERP systems (e.g., SAP, NetSuite, QuickBooks Enterprise, or similar).

Preferred Qualifications:

• CPA designation (preferred but not required).
• Experience working with import/export alcohol products.
• Familiarity with three-tier distribution systems.
• Experience managing multi-state regulatory compliance.

Hours:

• Full Time - 40 hours per week
• Monday - Friday

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunity to work in a dynamic and innovative environment.
• Professional growth and development opportunities.
• Collaborative and supportive work culture.

Contact Us:

• Email: pbanahene@pmbtalent.com
• Call: 585-420-8599

Equal Employment Opportunity:

Our client is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, or protected veteran status. In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification document form upon hire.