Description

An assistant controller manages day-to-day accounts activities and often oversees any internal auditing. The assistant controller must have a good working knowledge of financial regulations to ensure that the finance department is working within those parameters. It is expected that the assistant controller is a good leader and manager, as they usually help develop their team and advise their superiors. Assistant controllers are responsible for the accuracy of data in accounts, and they must ensure that all of their counts maintain integrity. They also may be responsible for the budget and for allocating resources as necessary; this includes creating reports, overseeing the annual budget, and presenting it to their superiors. The assistant controller will often report to the company’s chief executive officer or chief financial officers, in addition to other supervisors they may have.This position can be found in many different companies with a finance department, and it is expected that one is familiar with the work that company does. For this reason, industry-specific experience is often required for this job. Most assistant controller positions require a degree in finance or accounting. This position is not entry-level, and experience is generally required in a role that focuses on accounting and has some supervisory elements.

Roles & Responsibilities

As an Assistant Controller with 0-3 years of experience in the AE, your main responsibilities include:

  • Assisting in the preparation of financial statements, ensuring accuracy and compliance with accounting standards.
  • Supporting the month-end and year-end closing processes, including reconciliations and analysis of accounts.
  • Assisting in the implementation and maintenance of internal controls to safeguard company assets and ensure financial integrity.
  • Collaborating with cross-functional teams to gather and analyze financial data, providing insights to support decision-making and improve business performance.

Qualifications & Work Experience

The assistant controller oversees the day-to-day accounting activities and usually supervises internal audits. The assistant controller should have an understanding of financial regulations in order to make sure that finance operates within the guidelines. The assistant controller be an effective manager and leader, since they typically assist in the development of their staff and provide advice to their supervisors. Assistant controllers are accountable to ensure the integrity of information in the accounts and must ensure that their accounts are in good order. They may also be accountable for budgets and assigning resources according to the need and this may include preparing reports, managing the annual budget, and then present it to their supervisors. The assistant controller is likely to be a subordinate of the chief executive officer, or chief financial officer, along with any other supervisors they might have.

Essential Skills For Assistant Controller

1

Financial Analysis

2

Accounting

3

Ledger Accounting

4

Reporting

Career Prospects

The Assistant Controller role is an important position responsible for supporting financial operations. For individuals with 0-3 years of experience in the field, here are four alternative roles to consider:

  • Staff Accountant: A role that focuses on day-to-day accounting tasks, such as bookkeeping, reconciliations, and assisting with financial statements.
  • Internal Auditor: A position involved in evaluating and assessing an organization's internal controls and processes to ensure compliance and identify areas for improvement.
  • Financial Reporting Analyst: A role that involves preparing and analyzing financial reports, including variance analysis, trend analysis, and financial statement preparation.
  • Cost Accountant: A position focused on analyzing and managing costs within an organization, including inventory valuation, cost allocation, and cost control.

How to Learn

The job role of Assistant Controller in the United Arab Emirates is projected to experience steady growth in the market. Over the past 10 years, there has been a consistent increase in the demand for this position, with a trend towards even higher levels expected over the next decade. The UAE's growing economy and expanding business landscape are contributing factors to this rise. As a result, numerous employment opportunities are anticipated to become available in the future for individuals seeking Assistant Controller roles. This information is based on the latest data points available with Google.