Sales Tax Analyst

Darden Restaurants Inc.; Orlando (FL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Darden Restaurants Inc. is seeking a Tax Accountant based in Orlando, Florida. The role involves preparing monthly tax returns, ensuring compliance, and accounting for tax accruals. The ideal candidate must have a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting or Finance and at least 2 years of relevant experience.

You will be responsible for automating processes, communicating with vendors, and ensuring accurate data management. Strong skills in tax software and excellent communication abilities are essential for this position.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years of tax or accounting experience in public accounting or comparable industry experience.
• Ability to handle multiple priorities efficiently.
• Outstanding organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and file relevant returns and supporting workpapers.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement.
• Ensure proper accounting for tax accruals and related expenses.

Skills

Tax preparation and research software

Strong computer skills (Word, Excel)

Communication skills (verbal and written)

Education

Bachelor’s Degree (Accounting/Finance preferred)

Tools

Alteryx

Oracle-Discoverer

Hyperion

Job description

Location: 1000 Darden Center Dr, Orlando, FL, 32837

JOB OVERVIEW

Prepare the monthly tax returns and supporting work papers. Research and document variances of sales tax collections vs paid amounts for return accuracy and SOX compliance. Support SFA with tax planning projects and sales tax audits. Ensure data accuracy. Communicate with external vendors (i.e. suppliers and jurisdictions) to resolve issues. Account for tax accruals, payments and other tax related expenses. Prepare monthly reconciliations.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Compliance: Prepare and file relevant returns and supporting workpapers. Prepare necessary data files using Alteryx workflows ensuring accuracy for import into CorpSales. Update CorpSales as needed. Prepare Master Summary file. Make certain filings and payments are remitted timely and accurately. Maintain monthly calendar.
• Automations: Identify opportunities for process improvement. Coordinate and/or assist SFA or Sr. Systems Specialist in monitoring and developing new Alteryx workflows and bot automations. Prepare Resale and exemption certificates.
• Accounting: Ensure proper accounting for tax accruals, payments and other tax related expenses. Prepare applicable journal entries and balance sheet reconciliations. Assist SFA with SOX compliance. Investigate variances in sales tax collections vs paid amounts. Prepare workpapers and provide necessary data upon request.
• Work autonomously in responding to inquiries from taxing authorities. Research and respond to jurisdictional notices. Document and track findings.
• Vendor Research: Research and respond to taxability questions from internal stakeholders and external vendors on tax invoice disputes. Tax Exempt review and analysis for tax‑exempt sales. Report quarterly compliance to brands. Maintain Sales Tax Rate Listing.
• Point of Sale System Setup: Update POS system with new restaurants and taxability and rate changes. Research legislative support for rate changes and provide restaurant support as needed. Review sales tax collection issues and reconcile POS to general ledger as appropriate.
• Special Projects: Assist with special research projects as required and communicate results effectively to management. Document findings and recommendations.

REQUIRED TECHNICAL SKILLS

• Minimum 2 years of tax or accounting experience in public accounting or comparable industry experience
• Knowledge of tax preparation and research software
• Strong computer skills, including Word and Excel

REQUIRED EDUCATION

• Bachelor’s Degree (Accounting/Finance preferred)

OTHER KEY QUALIFICATIONS

• Ability to handle multiple priorities in efficient manner
• Outstanding organizational skills
• Strong communication skills both verbal and written. Ability to communicate effectively with taxing authorities, analysts, IT and accounting departments and restaurant managers
• Attention to detail

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Masters of Tax or Accounting
• CPA License
• Knowledge of Sales & Use Tax (CorpSales) or Property Tax software and Oracle-Discoverer, Hyperion, Business Intelligence, Alteryx and RPA experience is a plus