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Controller Job Description: Top Duties and Qualifications

Your job description is the first touchpoint between your company and your new hire. With millions of people searching for jobs on Indeed each month, a great job description can help you attract the most qualified candidates to your open position. To get you started, here are some tips for creating an effective job description.

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Controller job title

A great job title typically includes a general term, level of experience and any special requirements. The general term will optimize your job title to show up in a general search for jobs of the same nature. The level of experience will help you attract the most qualified applicants by outlining the amount of responsibility and prior knowledge required. And if your position is specialized, consider including the specialization in the job title as well. But avoid using internal titles, abbreviations or acronyms to make sure people understand what your job posting is before clicking.

  • Controller
  • Senior Controller
  • Corporate Controller
  • Controller (Full-Time)
  • Accounting Manager
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Controller Job Description Examples:

Controller job summary

A great job description starts with a compelling summary of the position and its role within your company. Your summary should provide an overview of your company and expectations for the position. Outline the types of activities and responsibilities required for the job so job seekers can determine if they are qualified, or if the job is a good fit.

Example of a Controller job summary

Our agency is in search of a self-directed and experienced Controller to oversee all financial, accounting and human resources activities. The successful candidate will be responsible for budget management, financial analysis, payroll, forecasting, accounts payable, accounts receivable and financial reporting. Key areas within the human resources department will also be managed by the Controller, including policy and procedure compliance and ongoing maintenance of HR practices. This is a fantastic opportunity for a professional who thrives in a busy work place, and is well-versed in working closely with senior management.

Controller responsibilities and duties

The responsibilities and duties section is the most important part of the job description. Here you should outline the functions this position will perform on a regular basis, how the job functions within the organization and who the job reports to.

  • Participate in the development of and support the company’s strategic plans
  • Monitor the financial performance of the company
  • Compile and analyze financial reporting packages
  • Prepare monthly and annual operating budgets
  • Develop and manage financial controls in accordance with the company’s procedures
  • Communicate financial metrics to senior management
  • Provide leadership and support to accounts receivable and accounts payable departments
  • Manage the preparation of payroll for personnel
  • Keep up-to-date on current HR trends

Controller qualifications and skills

Next, outline the required and preferred skills for your position. This may include education, previous job experience, certifications and technical skills. You may also include soft skills and personality traits that you envision for a successful hire. While it may be tempting to include a long list of skills and requirements, including too many could dissuade qualified candidates from applying. Keep your list of qualifications concise, but provide enough detail with relevant keywords and terms.

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Accounting, Finance or related discipline
  • Accounting designation (CMA, CGA or CA), or an equivalent combination of related experience and education
  • Minimum 10 years accounting experience in a senior accounting or financial management role with at least 5 years� experience in human resources
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills
  • Impeccable analytical and organizational skills
  • Self-motivated and self-directed
  • Ability to work closely with a senior management team
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Job Description Examples

Need help writing a job description for a specific role? Use these job description examples to create your next great job posting. Or if you’re ready to hire, post your job on Indeed.

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