TTB Compliance

Term from Spirits Production industry explained for recruiters

TTB Compliance refers to following the rules set by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) for making and selling alcoholic beverages in the United States. This involves getting proper permits, keeping detailed records, accurately labeling products, and paying the right taxes. It's similar to how restaurants follow health department rules, but specifically for alcohol producers. Companies need people who understand these regulations to help them stay legal and avoid fines or shutdowns.

Examples in Resumes

Managed TTB Compliance program for a craft distillery with zero violations

Developed and maintained TTB reporting systems for multiple product lines

Led TTB Compliance training for production staff and maintained all required documentation

Typical job title: "TTB Compliance Specialists"

Also try searching for:

Compliance Manager Regulatory Compliance Specialist Alcohol Compliance Officer Beverage Compliance Specialist TTB Specialist Spirits Compliance Manager Regulatory Affairs Manager

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you handle a TTB audit of a distillery?

Expected Answer: Should explain the process of preparing documentation, organizing records, ensuring all permits are current, and managing communication with TTB officers. Should mention experience with successful audits and common pitfalls to avoid.

Q: What strategies would you implement to ensure company-wide TTB compliance?

Expected Answer: Should discuss creating compliance programs, training staff, implementing record-keeping systems, and establishing regular internal audits. Should mention experience managing teams and creating procedures.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What are the key elements of a TTB label approval submission?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the COLA process, required label elements, common reasons for rejection, and timeline management for approvals.

Q: How do you ensure accurate reporting for monthly operational reports?

Expected Answer: Should discuss tracking production volumes, maintaining daily records, coordinating with production teams, and understanding tax payment requirements.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic record-keeping requirements for a distillery?

Expected Answer: Should know about production logs, storage records, tax forms, and basic permit requirements. Should understand the importance of accuracy in documentation.

Q: What is a COLA and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should explain that COLA (Certificate of Label Approval) is required for selling alcohol products and understand basic submission requirements.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of TTB regulations
  • Record keeping and documentation
  • Label approval assistance
  • Basic permit maintenance

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Monthly operational reporting
  • Label approval management
  • Tax payment processing
  • Compliance monitoring

Senior (5+ years)

  • Audit management
  • Compliance program development
  • Team leadership
  • Strategic planning for regulatory changes

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No knowledge of basic TTB forms and requirements
  • Lack of attention to detail in record keeping
  • No experience with alcohol industry regulations
  • Unable to explain basic compliance terminology
  • Poor understanding of production processes