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Comprehensive Controller Job Description, Duties, Responsibilities, Requirements, and Qualifications

Comprehensive Controller Job Description, Duties, Responsibilities, Requirements, and Qualifications
September 27, 2025

Explore the critical requirements, core duties, primary responsibilities, and key skills that should be included in a comprehensive Controller job description.

What does a Controller do?

A controller is in charge of managing the financial department in a company or organization. They may oversee different roles such as accountants, credit managers, and tax managers, depending on the company's size. Sometimes, this position is held by a chief financial officer.

Job Description

We are seeking an experienced controller to ensure accurate and timely financial management for our organization. The ideal candidate will handle accounting operations, produce financial reports regularly, and maintain accurate financial records.

Job Duties and Responsibilities

  • Developing guidelines, policies, and procedures for budgeting, cash and credit management, administration, and other financial activities.
  • Coordinating and directing budgeting, procurement, investment activities, and financial planning.
  • Ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations and professional standards.
  • Establishing and maintaining financial controls within the accounting department.
  • Preparing and presenting financial reports and risk analysis.
  • Creating budgets and forecasts.
  • Guiding financial decisions by setting and enforcing policies and procedures.
  • Providing support to management in commercial and financial matters.
  • Creating reports to help senior leadership understand the company's financials.
  • Managing the company's general ledger.

Requirements and Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in business, accounting, finance, or a related field.
  • Proven work experience in accounting or a related field.
  • Knowledge of applicable laws and regulations.
  • Understanding of economic principles, financial markets, and banking.
  • Familiarity with financial data analysis and reporting.
  • Knowledge of payroll, accounts payable, and accounts receivable functions.
  • Strong organizational and prioritization skills, with the ability to meet tight deadlines.
  • Experience in financial project management.
  • Advanced computer skills, particularly in Excel.
  • Effective communication skills to explain financial information in simple terms to all levels of the organization.
  • Knowledge of federal regulations on taxes and reporting.
  • In-depth understanding of finance.

Alternate Job Titles

  • Financial Controller

Controller Salary

The earning potential of a Controller can vary significantly based on factors such as geographic location, industry, professional experience, educational background, and the specific employer. On average, the annual salary for an Controller in the United States is approximately $259117.

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