What Is an Assistant Controller and How to Become One
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What Is an Assistant Controller?
Assistant controllers are financial professionals who assist the controller in the accounting department of a company or organization. Responsibilities of an assistant controller include working with the controller on the preparation of financial statements, participating in annual audits, managing invoices, meeting industry guidelines, and following state and federal accounting laws. Assistant controllers’ duties include reconciling accounts on a quarterly basis, and they must have skills in developing financial reports for forecasting and reporting. Assistant controllers are generally not required to have their CPA designation.
How to Become an Assistant Controller
The qualifications you need to become an assistant controller include a bachelor's degree in finance, economics, or accounting. It is also common for an individual in this position to be a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). The responsibilities of an assistant controller may include handling budgets, completing audits, and reviewing reports, which requires knowledge of accounting principles and procedures. Many employers prefer candidates with experience preparing financial statements.
Assistant Controller Job Description Sample
With this Assistant Controller job description sample, you can get a good idea of what employers are looking for when hiring for this position. Remember, every employer is different and each will have unique qualifications when they hire for a Assistant Controller role.
Job Summary
Our company is looking for an Assistant Controller to assist with accounts payable and accounts receivable. In this position, you help with both month-end and year-end financial closing activities, including reconciling accounts. You also prepare journal entries and financial statements for reporting. This position is essential to the long-term financial health of our company, so you must be familiar with the US Generally Accepted Accounting Principles set by the SEC. Our ideal candidate is a certified public accountant with strong forecasting skills.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Assist with month-end and year-end closing activities
- Reconcile accounts
- Prepare journal entries for the general ledger
- Prepare financial statements for reporting purposes
- Assist with forecasting and budgeting
- Perform internal audits
- Help implement internal control measures to ensure regulatory compliance
Requirements and Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in finance, accounting, or a related field
- Experience in accounts payable and receivables preferred
- CPA designation (a plus)
- Familiarity with US GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles)
- Analytical and organizational skills
- Attention to detail
