Position: Senior Consultant
FLSA: Full-Time, Exempt
Reports To: Senior Staff Accountant
Supervisory Position: No
Position OverviewThe Senior Consultant - Finance & Internal Audit is responsible for evaluating financial operations, accounting processes, internal controls, and business performance to ensure compliance, operational efficiency, cost optimization, and profitability. This role provides strategic recommendations to management, supports financial reporting accuracy, identifies operational risks, and develops solutions that strengthen financial controls and improve business outcomes.
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications associated with the position. Management reserves the right to assign additional responsibilities as business needs evolve.
Key Responsibilities- Finance & Audit
- Conduct audits of financial records, accounting systems, and operational procedures to ensure accuracy and compliance with tax laws, financial reporting standards, regulatory requirements, and company policies.
- Prepare detailed audit reports and communicate findings, risks, and recommendations to management.
- Support external audits by coordinating requests, providing documentation, and responding to auditor inquiries.
- Monitor and validate the implementation of audit recommendations and corrective action plans.
- Continually evaluate internal control systems, business operations, processes, and technical environments to identify and prioritize areas of highest risk.
- Internal Controls & Compliance
- Design and implement customized accounting systems, internal controls, and procedures to improve operational efficiency, accuracy, and regulatory compliance.
- Assess internal controls over inventory management, payroll, procurement, and other critical business functions.
- Identify control weaknesses, compliance gaps, and operational risks, and recommend practical solutions for improvement.
- Develop, document, and maintain accounting Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Operational & Financial Performance
- Evaluate operational efficiency in areas such as purchasing, inventory turnover, labor scheduling, and cost management to support profitability objectives.
- Analyze business performance metrics and identify opportunities to reduce costs, improve processes, and increase operational effectiveness.
- Assess the productivity and efficiency of internal staff and recommend improvements in resource utilization and workflow management.
- Investigate financial discrepancies, fraud indicators, inventory variances, payroll issues, or sales irregularities, and document findings for management or legal review.
- Cost Accounting & Profitability Analysis
- Develop and maintain standard costing models for food, beverage, packaging, and related operational costs.
- Analyze variances between actual and standard costs, including materials, labor, and overhead expenses.
- Monitor Cost of Goods Sold (COGS) trends and identify opportunities for margin improvement.
- Perform yield analysis and portion-cost studies to determine the actual cost of menu items and support pricing strategies and menu planning.
- Provide financial insights and recommendations to improve profitability and operational performance.
- Determine strategies to reduce costs and maximize financial returns.
Qualifications- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or related field.
- 5+ years of experience in finance, accounting, internal audit, consulting, or related areas.
- Strong knowledge of accounting principles, internal controls, financial analysis, and audit methodologies.
- Experience with cost accounting, inventory management, and operational audits.
- Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Excel.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, communication, and presentation skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and work independently with minimal supervision.
- CPA, CIA, CMA, or related professional certification preferred.
Physical Requirements- Ability to remain seated and work at a computer for extended periods.
- Ability to use a computer, keyboard, calculator, and other standard office equipment for prolonged periods.
- Ability to occasionally stand, walk, bend, reach, and lift up to 20 pounds.
- Ability to travel between corporate offices and business locations as needed.
- Ability to inspect operational areas, including kitchens, storage areas, and production facilities.
- Ability to communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and through virtual meetings.
- Ability to work additional hours when necessary to meet business needs, audit deadlines, or special projects.
Must be able to perform the essential functions of the position with or without reasonable accommodation.
