A controller is employed by a large-scale organization that deals with finances to a high degree in its operations, such as banks and large corporations – the controller is responsible for managing the organization’s finances and reporting their status to the company’s superiors. The controller is usually directly responsible for outlining the company’s specific financial policies, and overseeing that they’re kept to strictly. Controllers are often required to prepare various financial documents, such as stock reports and tax returns.
The job of a controller can be a very demanding one, and the position is usually ranked very high in the corporate structure – this is why it also holds some very strict requirements, mostly related to education and experience. A degree in finances, economics, or another finance-related subject is required in all cases, and some companies require candidates to hold a Master’s. Prior working experience in a position related to finances is also a requirement for many companies, and candidates must usually display a generally high level of understanding of financial operations.
The job of a controller is a highly-paid one, and salaries of up to $210,000 are not uncommon. Beginners without much background experience can easily find a position with a starting salary of around $130,000, and the prospects for advancing in the career ladder and getting promoted quickly are high. Additionally, there is a regularly high demand for controllers on the market, so it’s not challenging at all for experienced ones to find employment.