Description

A corporate controller oversees all the financial and accounting functions of a given organization, including billing, accounts payable and receivable, budgeting, and other functions. Corporate controllers also perform management duties, as many different departments related to financial and accounting practices report to them. They are also responsible for overseeing the company's systems for financial and accounting procedures, collecting on accounts payable, payroll processing, financial reports, statements, budgets, and forecasts. Some controllers are also responsible for filing annual and quarterly reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission. In a smaller company, they might assume the role of CFO, or chief financial officer. Often, with smaller companies, they will report directly to the chief executive officer or president of the company.This position occurs in an office setting during regular business hours, although overtime and work on weekends may be required. Corporate controllers use computers, emails, telephones, and financial software to perform the functions of the position. They must have relevant work experience and an educational background in finance or a related field.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a Corporate Controller with 0-3 years of experience in Canada, your main responsibilities include:

  • Assisting in the preparation and analysis of financial statements, ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting regulations.
  • Supporting the budgeting and forecasting processes, providing input on financial projections and cost control measures.
  • Collaborating with cross-functional teams to gather financial data, perform variance analysis, and identify areas for improvement.
  • Assisting in the implementation and maintenance of internal controls and accounting policies, ensuring adherence to regulatory requirements.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a Corporate Controller, the following qualifications are required:

  • Extensive knowledge of accounting principles and financial reporting standards to ensure accurate and compliant financial statements.
  • Strong leadership and management skills to oversee the finance team and guide them in day-to-day operations, including financial planning, budgeting, and forecasting.
  • Experience in developing and implementing internal controls and processes to mitigate financial risks and improve operational efficiency.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate with various stakeholders, including executives, auditors, and external partners, and effectively communicate financial information and analysis.

Essential Skills For Corporate Controller

1

Budgeting

2

Financial Analysis

3

Process Control

Skills That Affect Corporate Controller Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Budgeting

4%

Financial Analysis

3%

Career Prospects

The Corporate Controller role is crucial for overseeing financial operations and ensuring compliance. For professionals with 0-3 years of experience in Canada, here are four alternative roles to consider:

  • Staff Accountant: A role that focuses on day-to-day accounting tasks, such as preparing financial statements, reconciling accounts, and assisting with audits.
  • Financial Reporting Analyst: A position dedicated to preparing and analyzing financial reports, ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting standards.
  • Internal Auditor: A role responsible for assessing and evaluating internal controls, identifying risks, and recommending improvements to mitigate potential issues.
  • Cost Accountant: A position focused on analyzing and controlling costs within an organization, including inventory valuation, cost allocation, and variance analysis.

How to Learn

The job role of a Corporate Controller in Canada is projected to experience steady growth in the market. Over the past 10 years, there has been a consistent increase in the demand for professionals in this role. The role of a Corporate Controller is becoming increasingly important as companies strive for efficient financial management and compliance. Employment opportunities for Corporate Controllers are expected to continue growing in the future, driven by the expanding business landscape and the need for skilled professionals in finance and accounting. According to Google data, the job outlook for Corporate Controllers in Canada is positive, and there is a promising number of employment opportunities in this field.