What Is a Virtual Controller and How to Become One

By ZipRecruiter Marketplace Research Team

A virtual controller works from a remote location to oversee bookkeeping or accounting operations for a company or client. Your responsibilities can vary depending on the needs of your employer. A virtual controller (VC) or virtual chief financial officer (virtual CFO) oversees the setup of virtual bookkeeping and accounting systems and reviews the work of bookkeepers and accountants on the accounting, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll teams. Your duties in this telecommute position often involve working in a cloud-based environment. In addition to the management of accounting operations, you also ensure data security by using VPN connections and firmware updates.

The qualifications that you need to become a virtual controller include a degree in accounting or finance, professional certification, and experience in accounting or bookkeeping. People in this telecommute position typically have several years of experience in a finance-related position, and some employers may require experience in a management position. In addition to being a bachelor's or master's degree holder, you also need to be either a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) or Certified Management Accountant (CMA). Because you work in a virtual environment, you need to understand the security, software, and connectivity issues related to cloud-based accounting. As with any remote position, you need strong communication skills in this career.