Accountant Controller

As an Accountant Controller at Howard Financial, your responsibilities include managing and overseeing all financial operations, leading a team of accountants and FP&A associates. You'll also prepare and present financial statements and reports to executive management while enhancing processes to improve efficiency and accuracy. Additionally, strong client management is crucial as you address their financial needs and ensure compliance with deadlines.

To be considered for the Accountant Controller position at Howard Financial, you should have significant experience in financial management and accounting, preferably with a diverse client portfolio. Proven leadership skills, technical proficiency in software such as QuickBooks and Microsoft Office, and a strong attention to detail are essential. Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal, are also required to collaborate effectively with clients and team members.

Howard Financial values traits such as adaptability to a fast-paced remote work environment, proactive problem-solving abilities, and excellent organizational skills. As an Accountant Controller, you will thrive if you possess a mindset aimed at innovation and improvement, particularly in financial processes, while maintaining close client relationships.

The Accountant Controller plays a pivotal role in shaping the culture at Howard Financial by mentoring team members, fostering collaboration, and contributing to an environment that encourages innovative ideas. As an early member of our startup, your contributions will directly impact our organizational strategy, making it a rewarding experience for those passionate about building a company culture.

In a typical workday as an Accountant Controller at Howard Financial, expect a mix of managerial tasks, financial reporting, and team leadership. You will oversee financial operations, check your team's progress on projects, prepare critical financial documents for management, and engage with clients to ensure their needs are met. The role requires a flexible mindset and the ability to thrive under various demands and timelines.

When answering this question, emphasize your experiences in financial oversight, explaining how you set up systems for accuracy and efficiency. Share specific examples of how you have successfully overseen accounting functions and reporting, showcasing your leadership in achieving accurate results.

To respond effectively, recount a specific instance where you identified a financial bottleneck, implemented a new process, and discuss the positive outcomes. Highlight your analytical skills, your proactive mindset, and the measurable improvements that arose from your initiative.

Discuss your familiarity with GAAP or IFRS guidelines and explain the methods you employ to ensure compliance, such as regular audits and reviews. Providing examples of how you've fostered a culture of accountability within your team can strengthen your answer.

Be sure to articulate your leadership philosophy, whether you lead by example, through empowerment, or a collaborative approach. Provide evidence of how this style has benefited your team, particularly focusing on fostering an environment where all team members thrive and contribute.

Share specific techniques or tools that you use for prioritization, such as creating task lists or utilizing project management software. Illustrate your adaptability and mention times when effective prioritization led to successful outcomes, even under tight deadlines.

Explain your approach to breaking down complex reports, emphasizing how you ensure accuracy and clarity. Sharing a scenario where you had to simplify a detailed report for stakeholders can demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively.

Highlight your proficiency with financial software, such as QuickBooks or Excel, and mention specific features or capabilities you utilize for financial reporting and analysis. Provide examples of how your technical skills have directly benefited your team's outcomes.

Discuss your strategy for maintaining and nurturing client relationships, emphasizing the importance of communication. Sharing examples of how you resolved client concerns or exceeded expectations can showcase your interpersonal skills and dedication to client satisfaction.

Outline your methodology for financial forecasting, including the tools and data you rely on. Mention how you collaborate with other departments to gather necessary insights and how you review and adjust forecasts based on financial performance and market trends.

Explain your approach to staying informed on financial regulations and accounting principles, addressing your commitment to ongoing education and professional development, such as attending seminars or participating in relevant online courses.