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Controller In Accounting Jobs in Birmingham, AL (NOW HIRING)

Protective

Vice President, APD Controller

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

The Vice President, Corporate Controller for the Asset Protection Division (APD) is a senior ... Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance; CPA required. * Leadership: Proven ability to lead ...

Stonex Group, Inc.

Senior Accountant

Birmingham, AL · On-site

$69K - $87K/yr

... controlled financial reporting. This role is designed for an experienced accountant who is ... Identify inefficiencies in accounting, reconciliation, and reporting workflows * Develop and ...

Marmon

Accounts Payable Senior Accountant

Jasper, AL

$42K - $56K/yr

Reports to Fontaine Fifth Wheel Company Assistant Controller Assist: Vendors & all departments of the company Worker Experience: * Bachelor's degree in accounting (BA/BS) from a 4-year college or ...

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Showing results 21-40

All JobsController In Accounting JobsController In Accounting Jobs in Birmingham, AL

Controller In Accounting information

See Birmingham, AL salary details

$45K

$98.7K

$150.9K

How much do controller in accounting jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for controller in accounting in Birmingham, AL is $98,659.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $79,700.00 and $114,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a controller in accounting?

Controllers in accounting are senior professionals responsible for overseeing the financial operations of an organization. They manage accounting records, ensure compliance with financial regulations, and prepare financial reports such as balance sheets and income statements. Controllers often supervise accounting staff, develop internal controls, and collaborate with executive management to support budgeting and strategic planning. Their role is essential in maintaining the financial integrity and accuracy of a company’s finances.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a controller in accounting?

To thrive as a Controller in Accounting, you need in-depth knowledge of accounting principles, financial reporting, and regulatory compliance, typically backed by a CPA or similar credential and a relevant degree. Familiarity with ERP systems like SAP or Oracle, advanced Excel skills, and experience using financial analysis software are crucial. Strong leadership, analytical thinking, and effective communication set outstanding controllers apart. These skills and qualities ensure accurate financial management, regulatory adherence, and effective guidance of finance teams within an organization.

What are some of the biggest challenges a controller in accounting may face during the monthly close process?

Controllers often encounter challenges such as tight deadlines, coordinating with multiple departments to gather accurate financial data, and resolving discrepancies before financial statements are finalized. Managing last-minute adjustments, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and maintaining internal controls can also add complexity. Effective communication, strong organizational skills, and proactive issue resolution are key to overcoming these challenges and ensuring a smooth monthly close.

What is the difference between Controller In Accounting vs Accounting Manager?

AspectController In AccountingAccounting Manager
CredentialsCPA or equivalent, accounting degreeCPA or accounting degree often preferred
Work EnvironmentOversees entire accounting department, strategic focusManages accounting team, focuses on daily operations
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in corporations, large organizationsCommon in various industries, including corporate and non-profit
Search & Comparison IntentHigh overlap in responsibilities and credentialsSimilar roles, but with different scope

The Controller In Accounting typically holds a senior role overseeing all accounting functions, focusing on financial reporting and compliance. The Accounting Manager manages daily accounting operations and team supervision. While both roles require similar credentials and are found in similar environments, the Controller has a broader strategic responsibility, whereas the Manager focuses on operational tasks.

Is a controller higher than an accountant?

A controller in accounting is a senior management role responsible for overseeing all accounting operations, financial reporting, and internal controls. An accountant typically handles day-to-day accounting tasks and reports to the controller or finance manager. Therefore, the controller generally holds a higher position than an accountant within an organization’s hierarchy.
What cities near Birmingham, AL are hiring for Controller In Accounting jobs? Cities near Birmingham, AL with the most Controller In Accounting job openings:
Controller In Accounting jobs near you
Infographic showing various Controller In Accounting job openings in Birmingham, AL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $98,659 per year, or $47.4 per hour.

Vice President, APD Controller

Protective

Birmingham, AL • On-site

$200K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Posted 19 days ago

Protective Life rating

8.4

Company rating: 8.4 out of 10

Based on 16 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

116th of 304 rated insurance

Job description

The work we do has an impact on millions of lives, and you can be a part of it.
We help protect our customers against life’s uncertainties. Regardless of where you work within the company, you’ll be helping provide protection and peace of mind when our customers need it most.

Protective Life Corporation is committed to delivering protection and security through disciplined financial management and innovative solutions. The Vice President, Corporate Controller for the Asset Protection Division (APD) is a senior executive leadership role within the Finance organization and a key member of the accounting and finance leadership team.

This role has full leadership accountability for the APD controllership function, including financial reporting, accounting policy, governance, and internal controls. The position is responsible for developing and executing the strategy for APD accounting and reporting, ensuring alignment with enterprise objectives and regulatory requirements.

This role provides enterprise-level oversight of APD’s portfolio, including extended service contracts, vehicle protection products, credit insurance, GAP coverage, and warranty-related offerings. The VP, Corporate Controller operates with significant autonomy and influence, partnering across Finance, Actuarial, FP&A, Operations, Investments, and executive leadership to support scalable growth, financial integrity, and informed decision-making.
Key Responsibilities
Enterprise Controllership Leadership
•    Owns and leads the APD controllership function, with full accountability for financial reporting outcomes, control environment, and accounting integrity.
•    Develops and executes the strategic direction for APD accounting and reporting, aligned with Protective’s Finance and enterprise priorities.
•    Ensures alignment and integration of APD reporting within the broader corporate reporting framework.

Financial Reporting & Business Performance
•    Accountable for the accuracy, transparency, and timeliness of APD financial reporting, including GAAP and Statutory results where applicable.
•    Provides executive-level financial insights and analysis to enable business decision-making and performance management.
•    Oversees end-to-end close and reporting processes for APD, including high-volume, transaction-driven product lines and complex distribution models.

Technical Accounting & Policy Leadership
•    Serves as the senior accounting authority for APD, setting direction on accounting policy interpretation and application.
•    Leads evaluation of complex or non-routine transactions, including new product structures, distribution arrangements, and acquisitions.
•    Ensures consistency, scalability, and governance of accounting practices across APD and alignment with enterprise standards.

Governance, Risk & Control Oversight
•    Establishes and maintains a best-in-class control environment, consistent with SOX and Protective’s risk management expectations.
•    Accountable for controls over premium recognition, claims/reserves, commissions, and financial reporting.
•    Oversees engagement with Internal Audit, external auditors, and regulators, ensuring strong governance and regulatory compliance.

Strategic Business Partnership
•    Acts as a trusted advisor to the APD executive leadership, influencing strategy through financial, accounting, and risk perspectives.
•    Partners across functions to support growth initiatives, including new product development, distribution expansion, and acquisition activity.
•    Balances business objectives with financial discipline, ensuring decisions reflect both growth and control considerations.

Executive Influence & Cross-Functional Leadership
•    Influences resource allocation, prioritization, and execution across multiple disciplines impacting APD financial outcomes.
•    Builds strong alignment across Financial Planning and Analysis; Actuarial, Operations, Risk, and Legal to drive enterprise-consistent execution.
•    Serves as a key representative of APD within the accounting organization and broader Finance leadership team.

Leadership & Organizational Effectiveness
•    Provides leadership through senior managers and directors, with accountability for organizational performance and outcomes.
•    Develops and executes talent strategies, including succession planning, capability building, and leadership development.
•    Establishes a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement, aligned with Protective’s values.
Qualifications & Experience
•    Experience: 12+ years of progressive accounting/financial reporting experience, with demonstrated leadership at scale.
•    Industry: Experience in insurance and/or asset protection products (e.g., warranty, service contracts, credit insurance, GAP).
•    Public Accounting: Public accounting experience (Big 4 or equivalent) strongly preferred.
•    Education: Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance; CPA required.
•    Leadership: Proven ability to lead large, complex functions and influence executive stakeholders.
•    Technical Expertise: Deep expertise in U.S. GAAP and Statutory accounting frameworks applicable to property & casualty insurance products.
Protective’s targeted compensation for this position is $200,000 to $250,000. Actual salaries may vary depending on factors, including but not limited to, job location, skills, and experience. The range listed is just one component of Protective’s total compensation package for employees.
 
This position also offers additional incentive opportunities through an annual incentive and Long Term Incentive (LTI) based on individual and Company performance.
Employee Benefits:  
We aim to protect the wellbeing of our employees and their families with a broad benefits offering. In addition to offering comprehensive health, dental and vision insurance, we support emotional wellbeing through mental health benefits and an employee assistance program. Work/life balance is important and Protective offers a variety of paid time away benefits (e.g., paid time off, paid parental leave, short-term disability, and a cultural observance day). The financial health of our employees is just as important as physical and emotional health.  Some of the financial wellbeing benefits include contributions to healthcare accounts, a pension plan, and a 401(k) plan with Company matching. All employees are encouraged to protect their overall wellbeing by engaging in ProHealth Rewards, Protective’s platform to improve wellbeing while earning cash rewards.   

Eligibility for certain benefits may vary by position in accordance with the terms of the Company’s benefit plans.

Accommodations for Applicants with a Disability:
If you require an accommodation to complete the application and recruitment process due to a disability, please email eric.hess@protective.com. This information will be held in confidence and used only to determine an appropriate accommodation for the application and recruitment process.

Please note that the above email is solely for individuals with disabilities requesting an accommodation.  General employment questions should not be sent through this process.

We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to being inclusive and attracting, retaining, and growing an inclusive workforce.

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.

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