What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant Controller position at Chefman & CHEF iQ?
We are seeking a hands-on and detail-oriented Assistant Controller to support the day-to-day accounting operations of a fast-paced consumer products company. This role will play a key part in managing general accounting functions, overseeing the accounts receivable process for major retail and e-commerce partners, and ensuring accurate financial reporting.
The ideal candidate thrives in a high-volume environment, brings a strong understanding of AR in the CPG or retail space, and is passionate about improving processes, strengthening internal controls, and driving efficiency. This position offers a mix of strategic ownership and practical execution, working closely with the Controller, Finance, and Sales teams to support the company’s growth and financial integrity.
Roles & Responsibilities
General Accounting:
- Support month-end and quarter-end closing processes including journal entries, accruals, and account reconciliations.
- Assist in preparing financial statements and internal management reports.
- Support audits by preparing schedules and documentation for AR and revenue-related items.
- Ensure compliance with and improve internal controls and customer financial processes.
- Contribute to ERP system updates and financial system enhancements.
- Forecast cash collections from customers.
- Partner with Sales teams to forecast chargeback activity and monitor performance of large retailer sales programs.
- Guide junior AR or billing specialists, fostering process consistency and team development.
Accounts Receivable:
- Own and manage the AR cycle for high-volume, complex retail and wholesale accounts (Amazon, Walmart, Costco, Target, etc.).
- Monitor customer portals (e.g., RetailLink, Amazon Vendor Central) for invoice status, disputes, and chargebacks.
- Oversee accurate invoicing, including EDI-related billing workflows.
- Analyze AR aging, DSO, and customer-specific payment trends; drive strategies to improve cash flow and reduce outstanding balances.
- Reconcile AR subledger to general ledger; ensure proper cutoffs and compliance.
- Troubleshoot late paying customers.
- Lead and execute monthly AR close tasks, reconciliations, reserves and reporting.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field; CPA or CPA-track preferred.
- 5 years of accounting experience, with 3 years focused on AR in a CPG or wholesale/retail environment.
- Direct experience managing AR for large retail accounts like Amazon Vendor Central, Walmart RetailLink, Costco, and national or regional grocery chains.
- Strong understanding of chargebacks, deductions, trade promotions, and retail compliance.
- Familiarity with EDI transactions and billing systems.
- Proficient in ERP systems (e.g., NetSuite, SAP, Oracle,); strong Excel skills required.
- Strong problem-solving and communication skills across finance and non-finance teams.
Preferred Experience
- Experience working in a high-growth, high-volume environment with short shipping cycles and frequent deductions.
- Familiarity with retailer compliance portals, dispute resolution workflows, and retailer-specific payment terms.
- Proven track record of improving KPIs (e.g., reducing DSO, resolving disputes, improving cash flow).