Controller Job Description

Man sitting at his desk, holding pen and looking at his computer

As the leader of the accounting team, a financial controller is in charge of closely monitoring a company’s financial health. They typically maintain, manage, and analyze financial statements, payroll, budgets, tax compliance issues, and more. These financial experts work across a broad spectrum of industries. A financial controller salary will often vary depending on the size of the company. In a larger corporate setting, controllers often supervise a team of accountants and report directly to the chief financial officer (CFO). In smaller companies, they may be the only accountant, working with a team of clerks and reporting directly to the owner or CEO.

To find the right candidate for your organization, write a strong job description. You can use the template below and tailor it to your individual needs.

Hiring the right controller is crucial for your company’s financial health, and it all begins with the right job description. The ideal post introduces your company and provides candidates with a sense of its culture and values. Using direct, concise language, share how the controller is expected to contribute in their role, and how their work will influence your company’s success.

Carefully review your lists of objectives, responsibilities, and qualifications to ensure that each item accurately reflects the role. Keep the lists brief, with no more than six bullets in each.

Sample controller job description

Without the strength of the accounting team here at [Company X], we wouldn’t be able to offer the industry-leading service we’re known for. We’re seeking an experienced controller to oversee this high-performing team. The ideal candidate will have experience as an accountant in our industry, preferably in a senior role. As a strong communicator and skilled financial analyst, this person will streamline our budgeting, payroll, and financial reporting processes. The controller will also produce thorough financial-status reports for senior managers to help improve our operational efficiency and aid in our continued growth.

Objectives of this role

Provide comprehensive financial updates to senior managers by evaluating, analyzing, and reporting appropriate data points
Guide financial decisions by applying company policies and procedures to current economic landscape
Develop, implement, and maintain financial controls and guidelines
Achieve budgeting goals with proper scheduling, analysis, and corrective actions
Maximize payroll efficiency through innovative process development
Help develop and support short- and long-term operational strategies

Responsibilities

Maintain internal safeguards for revenue receipts, costs, and team and organizational budgets and actual expenditures
Establish (in coordination with CFO) financial and operating benchmarks, budgets, program monitoring, and reporting standards on biweekly, monthly, and annual basis
Implement consistent accounting policies, practices, and procedures across all programs, adhering to national and local legal standards while remaining knowledgeable of proposed legislation
Develop and enforce internal controls to maximize protection of company assets, policies, procedures, and workflows
Oversee and support accounting team with dynamic leadership that creates an environment of trust and productivity

Required skills and qualifications

Ten or more years of professional accounting experience
Strong understanding of banking processes and financial data analysis
Working knowledge of national and local tax regulations and compliance reporting
Experience in managing payroll, with focus on streamlining accounting processes
Exemplary history of financial project management

Preferred skills and qualifications

Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in business, accounting, or related field
Five or more years of experience as a senior-level accounting or finance manager
Professional certification, such as CPA (certified public accountant) or CA (chartered accountant)

What does a controller do?

How to write a controller job description