Key skills
- Financial reporting and analysis (GAAP compliance)
- General ledger accounting and journal entries
- Budget forecasting and variance analysis
- Internal controls and audit preparation
- ERP system management (NetSuite, SAP, or similar)
- Excel and financial modeling
- Communication of complex financial data to non-finance stakeholders
Frequently asked questions
What does an Operations Controller do day-to-day?
An Operations Controller oversees the accounting function for a company's operational divisions, ensuring accurate financial reporting, maintaining internal controls, and managing month-end and year-end closing processes. Day-to-day responsibilities include reconciling accounts, preparing financial statements, analyzing variances between budgeted and actual performance, and training accounting staff. They serve as a liaison between finance leadership and operational teams to ensure alignment on financial targets and compliance requirements.
What qualifications and certifications should I look for?
Most Operations Controller positions require a bachelor's degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. A CPA (Certified Public Accountant) credential is highly valued and often preferred by employers, particularly for mid-market and larger organizations. Candidates should have 5-10 years of accounting or finance experience, with at least 2-3 years in a controller or senior accounting role. Familiarity with GAAP standards and SOX compliance is essential for public companies.
How do I hire an Operations Controller through ECLARO?
ECLARO sources, vets, and places experienced Operations Controllers as both contract and full-time professionals. We manage the recruitment process—from identifying qualified candidates who meet your specific technical and cultural requirements to handling onboarding. Whether you need someone for a temporary engagement, project-based role, or permanent position, ECLARO matches you with professionals who have proven success in fast-paced operational finance environments.
What's the difference between a Controller and an Operations Controller?
A Controller typically oversees the entire accounting department and financial reporting for the entire company, reporting to the CFO. An Operations Controller focuses specifically on the accounting and financial management of one or more operational divisions or business units within a larger organization. Operations Controllers often work more closely with operational leadership to manage divisional budgets, performance metrics, and internal controls, making them a key bridge between finance and operations.
Ways to hire through ECLARO
ECLARO can fill this role through contract or contract-to-hire staffing, direct placement, an Employer of Record (EOR), recruitment process outsourcing (RPO), or a dedicated offshore team in the Philippines (ECAPTIVE).