Financial Controller Job Description 2024: Free Template

Financial Controller job description: guide for employers

Attracting and securing a skilled Financial Controller begins with a well-structured job description. Our free downloadable template provides a comprehensive example of a best-in-class job description, carefully crafted by our specialist Accounting & Finance recruiters.

Complete the form to access the template and leverage the included tips to tailor the job specification to meet your organization’s specific needs.

Crafting job adverts to attract top financial controller talent

To avoid bad hires and secure the best fit for your business, it’s crucial to craft job adverts that attract top-tier candidates. Including relevant keywords and emphasizing essential Financial Controller skills is key. Here are some tips to improve your job ads:

Highlight essential skills and experience

• Accounting expertise: Highlight the importance of candidates having deep technical accounting knowledge, ideally with CPA or CMA certification.
• Financial reporting: Emphasize experience in overseeing financial statements, budgeting, forecasting, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
• Leadership: Showcase the ability to manage finance teams effectively, including mentoring junior staff and leading financial planning initiatives.
• Data-driven decision making: Focus on strong analytical skills to guide strategic decisions through financial insights.
• Process improvement: Highlight experience in identifying and implementing financial process enhancements to drive efficiency and cost savings.

Key technical skills

A Financial Controller must possess a blend of technical acumen and leadership capabilities. Essential technical skills include:

• in-depth knowledge of applicable accounting stands (IFRS, GAAP, ASPE)
• Financial systems proficiency: Familiarity with ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle) and advanced proficiency in Excel for financial modeling.
• Compliance & risk management: Understanding of tax regulations, auditing practices, and ensuring the company adheres to statutory requirements.
• Budgeting & forecasting: Ability to create detailed financial forecasts and manage large budgets.

Essential soft skills

Alongside technical expertise, successful Financial Controllers exhibit a range of soft skills:

• Leadership: Inspire and guide teams, delegate tasks effectively, and encourage a positive work environment.
• Communication: Clearly communicate complex financial data to non-financial stakeholders and senior leadership.
• Integrity: Adhere to the highest ethical standards, ensuring financial accuracy and transparency.
• Problem-solving: Approach challenges with a solution-oriented mindset, particularly in dynamic or high-pressure environments.
• Adaptability: Thrive in changing environments, adjusting to new financial regulations or company restructuring.

Career advancement opportunities

Highlighting the potential for growth within your organization can attract ambitious Financial Controller candidates. Outline potential career paths, such as promotions to Finance Director or CFO, and emphasize your commitment to ongoing professional development. Offering continuous learning opportunities shows that you invest in the growth and future of your employees.

The importance of cultural fit

Ensuring a Financial Controller aligns with your company's culture is just as important as their technical expertise. A good cultural fit encourages team collaboration, boosts morale, and enhances productivity. When advertising the role, emphasize your company values and the traits you seek in an ideal candidate to ensure alignment with your business’s vision.