Assistant Controller

**Benefits**:

- Company parties
- Competitive salary
- Dental insurance
- Employee discounts
- Health insurance
- Opportunity for advancement
- Training & development

An Assistant Controller, supports the Controller by examining and analyzing accounting records of organizations (or individuals). They are responsible for ensuring accuracy in data and reporting, and compliance with established accounting standards and procedures. Their duties are towards the organization. However, Assistant Controllers will typically be expected to prepare and consolidate financial statements, establish and maintain internal controls, and assist the Controller with day to day, month-end and year-end processes, among other duties.

Assistant Controller duties and responsibilities

Establishing and maintaining internal controls and accounting best practices is one of the top responsibilities of an Assistant Controller. An Assistant Controller will also assist the Controller - particularly with day to day, month-end and year-end preparations. An Assistant Controller is responsible for providing weekly, monthly, quarterly, and year-end analyses.

An Assistant Controller’s duties and responsibilities may include:

- Examining and analyzing accounting and financial records, documents, and systems to ensure accuracy and compliance with established accounting standards, procedures, and internal controls
- Managing or assisting) with both internal and external audits
- Preparing detailed reports on audit outcomes and providing recommendations to improve accounting and management practices within the company
- Developing and implementing accounting policies and procedures to ensure accurate financial reporting
- Providing leadership, training, and development to finance and accounting staff
- Researching accounting issues where necessary for compliance with generally accepted compliance principles
- Overseeing and executing payroll functions and petty cash

Assistant Controllers are responsible for establishing and maintaining internal controls and policies. A successful Assistant Controller will also ensure compliance with legislation and established accounting procedures while identifying best practices within the organization. An Assistant Controller will often supervise accounts receivable, accounts payable, and general accounting departments, providing support regarding any queries with the general ledger. Reporting to the Controller, an Assistant Controller may also work closely with senior management on complex issues.

Assistant Controller skills and qualifications

Some of the top skills required of an Assistant Controller include a strong understanding of finance and accounting, management and leadership skills, and a keen, analytical eye with excellent attention to detail. Essential skills for an Assistant Controller include:

- Critical thinking and, in turn, confident decision-making with the ability to implement internal policies and processes
- Strong numeracy skills, particularly concerning scheduling, budgeting, and accounting math
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills (including great coaching, training, and presentation skills)
- In-depth knowledge of accounting software and systems
- Ability to consistently meet deadlines
- Capable of interpreting and analyzing large volumes of financial data
- Manage numerous priorities at once and be able to multi-task effectively

Assistant Controller experience requirements

Assistant Controllers are expected to have a minimum of three to five years of experience within accounting or finance roles, and previous experience using accounting software (such as Sage, QuickBooks, etc.) is very beneficial.

Assistant Controller education and training requirements

A Bachelor’s Degree in accounting, finance, or business administration is usually required for Assistant Controller roles. Completion of a training program accredited by Chartered Professional Accountants is expected for most Assistant Controller roles - although exceptions may be made for those in the process of a CPA training program, if close to qualifying.