Controllers must possess solid communication, technology, analytical and management skills. Candidates should possess knowledge of all aspects of GAAP. Public companies also require knowledge of SEC regulations and provisions of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act. The role usually requires at least seven years of relevant experience and a bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance. Many organizations prefer candidates who have an MBA or professional certification such as the CPA, CGMA or CMA. Experience in public accounting is highly valued.
Typical controller duties:
Overseeing the organization’s daily accounting functions accounting functionsManaging the accounting, payroll, accounts payable and accounts receivable departmentsWorking with executive team to guide the organization’s financial decisionsCommunicating regularly with (and often reporting to) the CFOCoordinating and preparing internal and external financial statementsCoordinating activities of external auditorsManaging the budget processAssessing current accounting operations, offering recommendations for improvement and implementing new processesDeveloping and monitoring financial performance metricsOverseeing regulatory reporting, frequently including tax planning and complianceHiring, training and retaining accounting staff
