A controller is an essential part of a business and acts as a guardian of a company's financial health. Their primary responsibility is to ensure the accuracy and reliability of financial records and reports. The controller takes ownership of the entire financial reporting process, ranging from preparing budgets, overseeing and suggesting improvements to internal controls, and making sure compliance to reporting requirements is met.

In order to become a controller, one must have the proper qualifications. Most controllers have over a decade of relevant work experience and at least a bachelor's degree in Accounting, Operations, or Business Administration. Even though controllers are not typically as high-up on the corporate ladder as CFOs and VPs of Finance, they often serve as a go-between in areas such as systems integration, corporate planning, and audits. Furthermore, employers are increasingly accepting controllers with a CPA license, which goes to show the significance of having proper credentials in this field.

The position of controller is a demanding yet rewarding job. The latest salary information from Glassdoor puts the average for controller salaries at $156,000 per year at the end of 2021. This, combined with the variety of job duties and responsibilities that comes with the position, makes it one of the top jobs in the accounting industry.

As controller, one will have the opportunity to make a positive impact on the company by providing reliable, up-to-date financial information and analysis. Furthermore, controllers will provide insight into the benefits and risks of different operations, so that management can make informed decisions about their budget and other investments. It's a good job for those seeking to work with flexibility, as controllers can work in various settings with different accounting systems and team members.