Assistant Controller Location: Norwood, MA Who We Are
Founded in Boston in 1933, M.S. Walker is a fifth-generation, family-owned wine and spirits importer, distributor, bottler, and national supplier. We proudly serve on-premise and off-premise customers throughout the Northeast, with direct operations in Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island, and brokerage operations in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont.
Our growing portfolio includes some of the industry’s most respected wine and spirits brands, along with a collection of proprietary brands distributed across the country. For more than 90 years, our success has been built on strong relationships, entrepreneurial thinking, and an unwavering commitment to our employees. At M.S. Walker, our people are our greatest asset, and we take pride in fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing culture where employees can grow and make a meaningful impact.
Position Summary
The Assistant Controller is a key member of the Finance and Accounting team and reports directly to the Controller. This role supports the company’s accounting operations, financial reporting, compliance, and internal control environment while helping ensure the accuracy, completeness, and integrity of financial information.
The ideal candidate is a highly motivated accounting professional with strong technical expertise, proven leadership capabilities, and the ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced and evolving business environment. This individual will play an integral role in the monthly close, financial reporting, audit and tax coordination, process improvement initiatives, system implementations, and development of accounting team members.
Key Responsibilities - Support the preparation and review of accurate and timely monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements in accordance with U.S. GAAP.
- Assist in managing the month-end and year-end close processes and ensure assigned activities are completed within established timelines.
- Oversee and review assigned general ledger activities, account reconciliations, bank reconciliations, financial reporting schedules, and supporting documentation.
- Ensure assigned financial transactions are recorded accurately, completely, and on a timely basis.
- Assist in maintaining and strengthening internal controls, accounting policies, and financial procedures.
- Coordinate and support the annual financial statement audit, tax filings, and other compliance requirements.
- Research and evaluate technical accounting issues and emerging accounting standards, assess their impact on the organization, and provide practical recommendations to management.
- Partner with business leaders and cross-functional teams to support financial compliance, operational effectiveness, and adherence to company policies and procedures.
- Analyze financial results, trends, and key performance indicators and provide meaningful insights and recommendations to management.
- Lead and participate in finance and accounting projects, including system implementations, automation initiatives, process improvements, and other projects arising from business requirements.
- Support the development, mentoring, and training of accounting team members.
- Serve as a resource and backup for critical accounting functions, as needed.
- Perform additional duties and special projects as assigned by the Controller.
Qualifications
Required - Active CPA license.
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.
- Minimum of 10 years of progressive accounting experience with increasing levels of responsibility.
- Strong knowledge of U.S. GAAP, financial reporting, internal controls, tax regulations, and other financial compliance requirements.
- Demonstrated technical accounting expertise, sound judgment, and strong problem-solving capabilities.
- Excellent analytical, organizational, and attention-to-detail skills.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively across all levels of the organization.
- Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office applications, with experience using accounting and financial systems.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines in a dynamic environment.
Preferred - Experience in an Assistant Controller or Controller role.
- Experience in wholesale distribution, beverage alcohol, consumer products, manufacturing, or another inventory-intensive business.
- Knowledge of cost accounting, inventory accounting, and operational finance.
- Master’s degree in Accounting (MSA) or Business Administration (MBA).
What Makes You Successful - You demonstrate a strong sense of ownership, accountability, and integrity.
- You are a collaborative partner who builds effective relationships across the organization.
- You are committed to continuous improvement and finding more efficient ways to operate.
- You balance technical expertise with practical business judgment.
- You thrive in an environment that values teamwork, excellence, and meaningful results.
Benefits:
We offer a Comprehensive Benefits Plan that includes the following: - Medical & Dental Insurance
- Vision Coverage
- Paid-Time-Off Program
- Fidelity Investments 401k
- Disability, Life, Accident & Illness Insurance Packages
- Discounted Fitness Memberships
- Free & Discounted Work/Life Resources
- Career Advancement Opportunities
Mission Statement:
Since 1933, our mission has been firmly rooted in our core values of family, integrity, respect, honesty, and hard work. We are deeply committed to upholding these principles for our team members, customers and suppliers alike. We seek to build and maintain long-lasting relationships based on trust and reliability. By honoring our heritage and embracing innovation, we aim to continuously improve and adapt to meet the evolving needs of our industry, while responsibly contributing to the communities we serve. Together, we strive to elevate the spirit of hospitality and foster a vibrant and respectful culture in all facets of the organization and beyond.
Pay Range: $100,000-$170,000
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