The profession of financial controller
Become a financial controller and manage a company's finances. Duties, skills, education, and salaries: find out everything you need to know about this key financial profession!
What is a financial controller?
The financial controller is responsible for analyzing the company's financial health. They oversee accounting, develop budgets, and control expenses to optimize profitability. Their role is also strategic: they provide reports and recommendations to management to assist them in their decision-making.
Working with accounting departments and auditors, they ensure compliance with financial and regulatory standards. Essential in large companies and international groups, the financial controller ensures rigorous and secure financial management.
A strategic player in financial management
The financial controller monitors economic performance, optimizes cost management and anticipates financial risks.
Through his analyses and recommendations, he informs management decisions and contributes to the company's sustainability. A true guarantor of the compliance and reliability of financial data, he plays a key role in implementing growth and resource optimization strategies.
Where does a financial controller work? (Large companies, SMEs, consulting firms, public sector)
The financial controller can work in various environments depending on the size and sector of activity of the organization:
- Large companies and international groups : It plays a key role in financial management, cost optimization and consolidation of results on a global scale.
- SMEs and mid-sized companies : They are often versatile, combining management control and accounting missions, with direct involvement in financial strategy.
- Consulting and auditing firms : It supports companies in improving their financial management and compliance with regulations.
- Public sector and non-profit organizations : It ensures the optimization of budgets and compliance with the financial frameworks specific to public institutions and associations.
What are the duties of a financial controller?
Analysis and monitoring of financial performance
The financial controller collects and reviews accounting and budgetary data to assess profitability, identify variances from forecasts and optimize resource management.
Using reporting and key performance indicator (KPI) tools, he provides managers with accurate analyses to guide decision-making . His expertise helps anticipate financial risks, improve internal processes and ensure the organization's economic sustainability.
Preparation and control of budgets
The financial controller prepares financial forecasts in collaboration with various departments, taking into account strategic objectives and economic constraints. Once the budgets are defined, they monitor them by analyzing the gaps between forecasts and actual results.
Its role is to optimize resource management, identify levers for improvement and ensure cost control. Through its analyses, it helps management adjust financial strategies to ensure the company's profitability and growth.
Production of financial reports and reporting
The financial controller compiles and analyzes accounting and budgetary data to provide clear and accurate reports to managers , shareholders, or regulatory authorities. These documents include dashboards, financial statements, and key performance indicators (KPIs), which help assess profitability and anticipate risks.
Through his work, the financial controller ensures transparency of information and facilitates strategic decision-making.
Compliance with accounting and regulatory standards
The financial controller ensures that the company complies with legal obligations regarding accounting, taxation, and financial reporting. To this end, they apply international standards (IFRS, GAAP) and local standards, while monitoring regulatory developments. Their role is also to prevent financial risks and ensure the accuracy of information provided to authorities and investors. Working with auditors and accounting departments, they enhance the transparency and reliability of the company's accounts.
Identification and management of financial risks
The financial controller analyzes the company's economic data to detect potential threats, such as market fluctuations, liquidity risks or changes in exchange rates.
Using forecasting and analysis tools, he implements strategies to limit these risks and ensure financial stability. He collaborates with management and other departments to anticipate crises and adapt decisions accordingly. His expertise thus contributes to securing the company's profitability and sustainability.
What skills and qualities are required to become a financial controller?
Skills in accounting and corporate finance
The financial controller is proficient in accounting principles (IFRS, GAAP), financial analysis, as well as budget management and management control. They know how to interpret financial statements, monitor profitability, and ensure compliance with legal requirements. Their expertise allows them to optimize the company's economic performance and guide strategic decisions based on accurate and reliable analyses.
Mastery of reporting and financial analysis tools
The financial controller uses accounting management software (SAP, Oracle, Sage), advanced spreadsheets (Excel, Google Sheets) and business intelligence tools (Power BI, Tableau).
With these solutions, he automates reporting, builds dashboards, and analyzes key performance indicators (KPIs). This expertise allows him to identify budget gaps, anticipate risks, and help management make strategic decisions based on reliable, up-to-date data.
Rigor and capacity for strategic analysis
The financial controller must ensure the accuracy of financial data, guarantee compliance with accounting standards and effectively control budgets.
Their strategic analysis skills allow them to understand the company's economic challenges, interpret financial results, and propose recommendations to optimize profitability. They know how to identify trends from complex data and anticipate future developments, thus contributing to the definition of the company's strategic directions.
Sense of communication and leadership
The financial controller must work effectively across departments and share their analyses in a clear and understandable manner. They are often required to present financial reports to management, shareholders, or other stakeholders, adapting their presentation to suit the audience.
Their leadership is demonstrated by their ability to influence financial decisions, lead multidisciplinary teams, and coordinate financial projects. They must also be able to convince and motivate their colleagues to follow recommendations to improve performance and resource management.
Financial Controller: What salary and career prospects?
Average salary by experience and location
Beginner (0-3 years of experience) : Around €35,000 to €45,000 gross per year.
Intermediate experience (3-5 years) : Approximately €45,000 to €55,000 gross per year.
Proven experience (5-10 years) : Around €55,000 to €70,000 gross per year.
Senior (10 years and over) : Around €70,000 to €90,000 gross per year, or even more for management positions.
Location :
In Paris and the Île-de-France region, salaries are generally higher due to the cost of living and the concentration of businesses. Salaries can be increased by 10 to 20% compared to less centralized regions.
In regions like Lyon, Bordeaux, Lille, salaries are a little lower, but remain competitive compared to the national market.
In more rural areas or in smaller companies, salaries may be more moderate.
The prospects for development
CFO (Chief Financial Officer) :
The financial controller can progress to the role of CFO, the company's chief financial officer. At this level, they oversee the company's overall financial strategy, including risk management, financial planning, management control, mergers and acquisitions, and shareholder and investor relations. This position requires solid financial management experience, strategic vision, and the ability to steer financial decisions across the company.
Financial Director :
An experienced financial controller can also advance to the position of chief financial officer, where they more directly manage the company's finance teams and operations. They are responsible for managing financial flows, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with accounting standards. This position requires extensive expertise in financial management, as well as the ability to supervise teams and influence company strategy.
Senior Management Controller :
As a senior financial controller, the professional can progress to more strategic responsibilities, with a greater focus on profitability, forecasting, and performance analysis. This role often involves team management and increased responsibilities for financial reporting and internal control. The senior financial controller may be required to work closely with management to adjust financial strategy and optimize costs.
Financial strategy or risk management consultant :
After several years of experience, some financial controllers choose to turn to consulting in financial strategy or risk management, where they support other companies in optimizing their financial processes, managing their cash flow or ensuring compliance with standards.
Opportunities in different sectors: industry, services, finance, start-ups
In the industrial sector, the financial controller plays a crucial role in optimizing production costs, managing inventory, and analyzing the profitability of various production units. They often work on long-term projects and major investments. Career prospects include positions as financial director or senior management controller, with a strong involvement in the company's financial strategy. Industrial companies also offer international opportunities, particularly in multinational groups.
The services sector (consulting, business services, technology, etc.) focuses on margin management, project-based profitability, and operational cost optimization. Financial controllers are often required to manage specific projects and track performance by business segment. Career opportunities include positions as a management controller, chief financial officer, or CFO in mid-sized companies or specialized consulting firms. This sector can offer a greater diversity of assignments and client types.
In the finance sector (banks, insurance companies, investment funds), financial controllers typically work on compliance, risk management, financial reporting, and portfolio performance. This sector offers very attractive career prospects, such as CFO, CFO, or even specialized roles in mergers and acquisitions (M&A) or financial risk management. Working in finance also allows you to acquire highly sought-after skills, and the sector is often a springboard for international careers.
Startups offer exciting opportunities for financial controllers looking to grow in a dynamic and fast-growing environment.
Within this framework, the role can be more versatile, with responsibilities ranging from cash management to setting up financial processes and reporting, often with a focus on fundraising and managing rapid growth.
Although salaries may be lower at the start, there are many opportunities for advancement, with direct access to CFO or Finance Director positions, and the opportunity to work on innovative projects with great flexibility.
What studies and training do you need to become a financial controller?
Recommended qualifications (Bac+5: Master’s in finance, accounting, management, business school)
A Master in Finance provides mastery of advanced financial concepts, risk analysis, portfolio management, and management control.
This diploma is highly sought after in the financial sectors (banks, insurance, investment funds) and in large companies where in-depth knowledge of finance is essential.
The CCA Master degree is a specialized training program that prepares students for careers in management control, auditing and accounting.
This program covers financial management, accounting standards and account consolidation, with an emphasis on compliance and financial reporting.
A Master in Management, often obtained from a business school, provides general training in business management with a possible specialization in finance.
This type of degree prepares students for strategic roles and increased responsibilities in financial management, management control and business strategy.
Business schools offer Master of Management (MiM) programs with specializations in finance, accounting, or auditing. These degrees are highly sought after by large corporations and multinationals. They provide solid expertise in management and finance, while opening doors to international careers.
A Master degree in Economics or Management Science also provides in-depth training in financial analysis, business strategy and risk management, while providing a solid foundation for a career in financial control.
Chartered Accountant Diploma (DEC) : Although it is more focused on accounting expertise, it is an asset for financial controllers with a strong orientation towards compliance and auditing.
CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst) : This credential is more focused on financial analysis and investments, but can be an excellent complement for a financial controller in large corporations or finance sectors.
The importance of professional certifications (CFA, DSCG, ACCA, CIMA)
CFA (Chartered Financial Analyst)
The CFA Charter is one of the most prestigious certifications for financial professionals. It is particularly recognized in the asset management, investment banking, and financial markets sectors. The program covers areas such as financial analysis, portfolio management, alternative investments, and risk management.
This certification offers high-level expertise and is an asset for professionals who wish to advance to positions as CFO, financial analyst, or portfolio manager. It is also useful for those who wish to work internationally, as it is widely recognized worldwide.
DSCG (Higher Diploma in Accounting and Management)
The DSCG is a recognized diploma in France, designed for professionals in accounting, finance, and management control. It allows students to develop their technical skills in accounting, finance, auditing, and risk management. This diploma is a prerequisite for pursuing the Diplôme d'Expertise Comptable (DEC).
The DSCG is an excellent asset for financial controllers wishing to specialize in accounting and internal control, particularly in the public sector or within audit firms. It is also valued for its academic rigor and its focus on the management of French accounting standards.
ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants)
ACCA is a renowned international certification that trains professionals in accounting and auditing standards. It is highly recognized in English-speaking countries and multinational companies. It covers areas such as financial management, auditing, taxation, and risk management.
The ACCA offers international recognition and is a major asset for financial controllers who wish to work internationally or in groups with a significant foreign presence. It is a highly sought-after certification in large corporations, audit firms, and consulting firms.
CIMA (Chartered Institute of Management Accountants)
The CIMA certification focuses specifically on management control, financial management, business strategy, and decision-making. It is ideal for financial controllers working in industrial or service environments where cost management, profitability, and performance optimization are essential.
The CIMA is particularly useful for those wishing to progress to senior management controller or financial director positions, due to its focus on corporate strategy and long-term performance management. It is also recognized internationally, particularly in multinational companies.
Other Additional Certifications :
CPA (Certified Public Accountant) : This certification is often required for financial controllers working in U.S.-based companies or companies with ties to the U.S. It is useful in the fields of accounting and auditing.
CMA (Certified Management Accountant) : The CMA is a certification that focuses on strategic financial management, risk management, and decision-making. It is particularly useful for financial controllers in industries where cost management and financial strategy are paramount.
Field experience: internships, work-study programs and first job
Field experience is crucial for a financial controller, as it allows them to apply the theoretical skills acquired during their studies and familiarize themselves with the practical realities of the profession. Internships, work-study programs, and first jobs are all opportunities to develop expertise and a professional network.
Internships allow students to experience the role of financial controller in a professional environment while gaining practical skills. They are often required as part of their studies (for example, in a Master's in Finance or a Master's in Accounting and Control) and represent a first immersion into the world of work. They offer the opportunity to work on concrete tasks: financial analysis, budget preparation, performance monitoring, financial reporting, etc.
Internships provide training in specific financial reporting tools, such as Excel, SAP, Power BI, or accounting software.
A successful internship can lead to a job offer upon graduation or a valuable recommendation for applying elsewhere.
Example missions : participating in the development of the annual budget, helping to implement internal financial controls, or carrying out cost analyses.
Work-study programs allow students to combine academic training and professional experience over a longer period of time (often 1 to 2 years). They are particularly suitable for those who wish to work alongside their studies while acquiring specific skills in a company.
Through a work-study program, you'll be immersed in the company for regular periods, allowing you to develop expertise more quickly than through an internship. This gives you more in-depth experience and better integration into the finance team.
You can work on a variety of tasks: financial performance analysis, cost monitoring, cash flow management, etc.
The work-study program offers the opportunity to develop a solid professional network which can be decisive in finding a job at the end of the training.
Depending on performance, a work-study program can lead directly to a permanent job at the end of the contract, because the company already knows the candidate's skills and motivation.
Example of missions : assist the financial controller in the preparation of monthly financial statements, participate in the consolidation of financial data and help with the management of internal audits.
The first job as a financial controller is a key step in a career. It allows you to put into practice all the skills acquired during your studies and previous experience (internships, work-study programs) and to gradually take on more strategic responsibilities.
As a junior or senior financial controller, you will be involved in management control, cost analysis, preparation of financial reports for management, and profitability management.
A first job allows you to gradually acquire autonomy, while being supervised by more experienced professionals.
After a few years, good results in your first job allow you to move towards more senior positions such as senior management controller, financial director, or CFO.
Example of missions : cost management and analysis, preparation of annual budgets, preparation of monthly financial reports, management of analytical accounting, monitoring of budgetary variances.
Why choose a career as a financial controller?
A profession with high employability in all sectors
The financial controller profession offers high employability because it is crucial in all sectors: industry, services, finance, the public sector, and even startups. Every organization, whether large or small, must manage and optimize its finances, making this position essential. Financial management and performance analysis skills are therefore in demand everywhere, guaranteeing a wide range of career opportunities.
A central role in strategic decision-making
The financial controller plays a central role in strategic decision-making by providing accurate financial analyses and forecasts of company performance. Through detailed reporting on costs, profitability, and risks, they help management make informed decisions, adjust strategies, and optimize resources. Their expertise helps guide strategic choices, improve competitiveness, and ensure the organization's financial sustainability.
Opportunities for advancement to financial management positions
The role of financial controller offers many opportunities for advancement to financial management positions.
With experience, a financial controller can progress to roles as senior management controller, financial director or even CFO (Chief Financial Officer).
These leadership roles allow you to oversee all of the company's financial operations, drive financial strategy and participate in decision-making at the highest level.
This progression is facilitated by the acquisition of in-depth expertise in financial management, strategic analysis and risk management.