Project Finance Controller

As a Project Finance Controller at ICF, your primary responsibilities include managing project setups, budgeting, forecasting revenues, and conducting variance analysis. You will ensure compliance with GAAP and internal policies while maintaining project records in Deltek Costpoint. Additionally, you'll oversee invoicing processes and collaborate with senior management to provide insights on project finances.

To be considered for a Project Finance Controller role at ICF, candidates should possess at least 4 years of experience in finance or accounting within a government or commercial contracting setting. A bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field is preferred. Proficiency in Deltek Costpoint and strong analytical skills are also highly valued.

A Project Finance Controller at ICF contributes to project success by overseeing financial tracking, maintaining compliance with financial reporting standards, and ensuring that budgets and forecasts align with project expectations. Your ability to analyze financial data and communicate findings effectively helps project managers make informed decisions, thereby increasing the likelihood of project success.

Strong proficiency in financial software is crucial for a Project Finance Controller at ICF. Experience with Deltek Costpoint is required, along with advanced skills in Microsoft 365 applications, particularly Excel. Familiarity with tools like VLOOKUP and Pivot Tables enhances your capacity to analyze and report on project financials efficiently.

Project Finance Controllers at ICF typically work in a collaborative office environment in Reston, VA, but may also have the opportunity for remote work. The role requires interaction with various departments, fostering teamwork while managing projects effectively. Overall, it's a dynamic and engaging work culture that supports professional development.

When addressing financial discrepancies, it's important to first identify the source of the issue by reviewing your financial data and project documentation. Clear communication with project managers and other departments can help you resolve any misunderstandings. Emphasize your analytical skills and collaborative approach in your response.

In an interview, you should provide specific examples of how you've used Deltek Costpoint, such as project setup, managing cost accounting, or generating reports. Highlight your familiarity with its functionalities and how it has helped you improve financial accuracy and project tracking.

To ensure compliance, I consistently reference GAAP guidelines and our company's internal policies during financial reporting and documentation. Highlight specific instances where you tracked compliance or implemented procedures that uphold these standards effectively.

When faced with multiple projects, I prioritize by assessing the urgency and importance of each task. Utilizing project management tools and maintaining a detailed task list helps keep me organized. Demonstrating your organizational skills and your ability to multi-task effectively can strengthen your answer.

I employ a combination of trend analysis and variance reporting to analyze project budgets. Regularly reviewing actual versus projected costs allows me to identify potential issues early. Additionally, outlining your analytical process and tools used can showcase your methodical approach.

I use clear, simple language and visual aids to convey complex financial data to non-financial team members. Tailoring my presentation style based on my audience helps ensure better understanding. Sharing examples where you've had successful communication can enhance your answer.

Share a specific incident where you detected a financial risk early in a project's lifecycle. Explain the steps you took to address it and the outcome, emphasizing your analytical abilities and proactive approach.

When discussing mentoring, share instances where you've guided or trained junior staff. Highlight the methods you've used to help them develop their financial skills, showcasing your leadership abilities and commitment to team growth.

To maintain accuracy, I adopt a meticulous approach to data entry and regularly conduct reconciliations and audits. Implementing double-checking methods, peer-review processes, and correction procedures demonstrates your commitment to precision.

Collaboration is vital in my role as a Project Finance Controller. Working closely with project managers, procurement teams, and accounting departments allows for seamless information sharing and problem-solving. Articulating the importance of teamwork in financial projects can impress interviewers.