What does a Financial Controller do?

A Financial Controller owns the accuracy and integrity of a company's books and financial reporting. They run the close, enforce internal controls, manage audits, and lead the accounting team so the numbers are correct, timely, and compliant.

What are the main responsibilities of a Financial Controller?

The core duties are owning the close and financial statements, maintaining internal controls and compliance, and leading audits and the accounting team. They also oversee AP, AR, treasury, and the accounting policies and systems behind them.

What skills does a Financial Controller need?

They need deep technical accounting knowledge of GAAP or IFRS, strong internal-controls and audit experience, and sharp attention to detail. Leadership skills matter too, since they manage a team and partner with FP&A and executives on reliable data.

What should a Financial Controller job description include?

A strong job description states the reporting and close responsibilities, the controls and compliance scope, and the size of the team led. Naming the ERP, accounting standards, and audit requirements helps candidates assess the technical level.

Who does a Financial Controller work with?

Financial Controllers work closely with the CFO and the accounting and finance operations team they lead. They partner with FP&A, and interact regularly with external auditors, tax advisors, and banking relationships.

Finance

Financial Controller Job Description

Accountant Financial Analyst Finance Manager Bookkeeper Accounts Payable Specialist Accounts Receivable Specialist Auditor Tax Accountant Payroll Manager CFO

About the role

We are looking for a Financial Controller to take full ownership of our accounting operations and financial reporting. You will run the close, safeguard the accuracy of the books, strengthen internal controls, and lead the accounting team through audits and compliance. This role suits a hands-on, detail-driven leader who can be both a rigorous gatekeeper and a trusted business partner.

Key responsibilities

Own the monthly close and financial reporting
Maintain strong internal controls and compliance
Lead the accounting team and external audits

Responsibilities

Own the monthly, quarterly, and annual close and deliver accurate financial statements
Ensure the general ledger, reconciliations, and journal entries are accurate and complete
Design and enforce internal controls to safeguard assets and prevent errors
Lead the external audit process and act as the primary contact for auditors
Ensure compliance with accounting standards such as GAAP or IFRS and with tax filings
Manage accounts payable, accounts receivable, and treasury operations
Oversee cash flow, banking relationships, and working capital management
Build and improve accounting policies, processes, and system controls
Manage, mentor, and structure the accounting and finance operations team
Partner with FP&A and leadership by providing accurate, timely financial data

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field; CPA, CA, or ACCA is strongly preferred
8 or more years in accounting with several years in a controller or senior accounting role
Deep knowledge of GAAP or IFRS, financial reporting, and internal controls
Proven experience leading month-end close and managing external audits
Experience managing and developing an accounting team

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