How to Prepare for a Controller Interview

The role of controller is critical to any organization's financial management. Since controllers are responsible for financial reporting, budgeting, compliance, and internal controls, among many other vital functions, the interview process is rigorous. You will be evaluated not only on your technical expertise but also on your leadership qualities and ethical judgment. Here are a few tips to help you navigate your interview for a controller position.

How You Can Prepare

Before you’ve narrowed your search

Presumably you chose this field because you’re fascinated with the ever-changing world of finance with all its special challenges. So if you’re not already deeply familiar with recent developments in accounting standards, regulatory requirements, and technology, seek out reliable sources and be ready to carry on an intelligent conversation with an industry professional. Companies want someone whose commitment to continuous learning and professional development keeps them aware of business and financial trends.

When you’ve targeted a company

As candidates for any role should do, research the company you want to work for and its industry and get to know what corner of the financial landscape it occupies. Try to find out what kinds of obstacles it faces regularly. Then tailor your responses to showcase how your skills and experience will address their specific needs. Remember to use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses and provide concrete examples of your past achievements and problem-solving abilities.

Once you’ve scheduled the interview

Now think about what unique qualities will make this company want to snap you up. Recall instances when you took the lead in financial initiatives or process improvements. Refine your story and be ready to concisely relate how your achievements have prepared you to drive change at this company and contribute to its financial growth.

And don’t forget the other essential half of the interview equation: you interviewing them (in essence). Prepare insightful questions that demonstrate your knowledge of and interest in the company's financial strategy and future direction. An added benefit of being inquisitive in an interview? Finding out for sure if the company is a good fit for you.

Top Two Controller Interview Topics

Your financial experience

You’ll be questioned on your experience in financial management and audits and how your qualifications align with the requirements of the role. You should be ready to discuss your knowledge of financial software and ERP systems and to explain how you ensure accuracy and integrity in financial reporting. You will likely also be asked how you stay up to date on changing accounting regulations and standards.

Your leadership qualities

The interviewer will want to hear about a situation in which you led a team through a difficult financial project or problem. How did you work together to resolve the challenge? Other questions could be about how you communicate complex financial information, especially to nonfinancial stakeholders, and how you would guide colleagues at all levels of the organization in preventing or coping with discrepancies and irregularities in financial data.

Much like the role itself, the controller interview will require you to demonstrate a combination of technical expertise, leadership abilities, and strategic thinking. Fortunately, with some research and forethought, you can position yourself as the ideal candidate for this critical job.

Check out some of CyberCoders’ current openings for controllers here.