What Is Job Description of the Corporate Controller?
Corporate controllers (sometimes referred to as "chief financial officers" or CFOs) are top executives responsible for the financial activities of the organizations in which they work. Controllers establish financial policies, track income and expenses, oversee budgets, and make recommendations regarding investment decisions. The job market for controllers is competitive. Industry experience is a must.
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Education
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Most controllers have bachelor's or master's degrees in business administration, finance, or accounting. In addition, controllers often earn professional certifications, including Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA). Earning these certifications improves an individual's chance of becoming a controller.
Areas of Responsibility
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Controllers manage investments, oversee cash management activities, deal with mergers and acquisitions, and supervise financial reporting. They often manage several employees or entire accounting departments. Controllers report directly to the president or board of directors of their organizations.
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Salary
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Controllers, like other top corporate executives, are highly paid. Median annual salaries of corporate executives, including controllers, were $158,560 in 2008. Controller salaries vary widely, however. Top executives in large companies can earn more than $1 million annually, depending on their level of responsibility and industry. In addition to salaries, compensation for controllers often includes stock options and performance bonuses.
Technology
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Controllers must be comfortable with technology. They use calculators and computers with specialized financial software programs to compile reports. They use spreadsheets to analyze data and frequently file reports via electronic submission.
Areas of Interest
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Controllers must like working with numbers. They need to be knowledgeable about economic and accounting principles and financial markets. They should also have an interest in general business administration, including strategic planning, human resources, and corporate governance.
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