Assistant Controller vs. Accounting Manager: What Are the Differences?

A career in accounting can be both challenging and rewarding. Two common positions in this field are that of an assistant controller and an accounting manager. Though these positions share some similarities, there are several key differences between them.

In this article, we discuss the differences between an assistant controller and an accounting manager, and we provide additional accounting professions you may be interested in pursuing.

What is an Assistant Controller?

Assistant Controllers provide support to the Controller by supervising accounting staff, preparing financial reports and overseeing the organization’s accounting and financial systems. They work with the Controller to develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure accurate financial reporting. Assistant Controllers also work with auditors to ensure the organization’s financial statements are in compliance with generally accepted accounting principles. They may also be responsible for managing the organization’s budget and forecasting future financial needs.

What is an Accounting Manager?

Accounting Managers are responsible for the financial health of their organization by supervising the accounting team, preparing financial statements and ensuring that all financial reporting complies with regulatory requirements. They work closely with other departments to ensure that accurate and timely financial information is available to support decision-making. Accounting Managers also develop and implement processes and controls to ensure the accuracy and reliability of financial reporting. In addition, they may be responsible for managing the budgeting and forecasting process.

Assistant Controller vs. Accounting Manager

Here are the main differences between an assistant controller and an accounting manager.

Job Duties

A controller’s job duties can vary based on the size and needs of their company. Some responsibilities may include creating budgets, monitoring expenses, overseeing financial software programs and communicating with external accounting firms. Accounting managers often have similar job duties, but they also manage the department and ensure that all employees are working efficiently. They may oversee scheduling, training and performance evaluations to help improve the department.

The job duties of an accounting manager tend to be more managerial, while an assistant controller typically performs administrative tasks. This can include filing, typing, faxing documents and organizing records. It’s also common for an assistant controller to support the accounting manager by taking care of daily tasks so they can focus on more important issues.

Job Requirements

Assistant controllers and accounting managers typically need a bachelor’s degree in accounting or a related field. Some employers prefer candidates to have a master’s degree as well, but it is not required for entry-level positions. Additionally, many assistant controllers and accounting managers pursue certifications through the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) or the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA). These organizations offer training programs that teach professionals how to use accounting software and other tools they might need on the job.

Work Environment

The work environment for an accounting manager can vary depending on the size of the company they work for. Accounting managers often work in offices, but some may travel to visit clients or attend conferences and events related to their field. They also spend time working with other employees, such as accountants, bookkeepers and financial analysts.

Assistant controllers typically work in office environments where they have access to resources like computers, printers and filing cabinets. They may also work closely with executives and C-level executives, which means they may travel to meet with them. Assistant controllers usually work during regular business hours, although overtime is sometimes necessary.

Skills

Both assistant controllers and accounting managers use similar skills in their jobs, such as math, analytical thinking and attention to detail. However, there are some key differences between the two positions.

Assistant controllers typically have more of a focus on administrative tasks, such as preparing reports, maintaining records and overseeing budgets. They also need to be able to work well with other departments in a company to ensure that everyone is adhering to financial regulations. Accounting managers, on the other hand, tend to have more of a focus on strategic planning. They develop long-term plans for a company’s finances and make decisions about how to best invest its money. They also need to be able to motivate and manage a team of accountants.

Salary

The average salary for an assistant controller is $102,056 per year, while the average salary for an accounting manager is $89,252 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the size of the company, the location of the job and the level of experience the employee has.