The Master Guide to Controllers' Best Practices

Book excerpt: The essential guide for today’s savvy controllers Today’s controllers are in leadership roles that put them in the unique position to see across all aspects of the operations they support. The Master Guide to Controllers’ Best Practices, Second Edition has been revised and updated to provide controllers with the information they need to successfully monitor their organizations’ internal control environments and offer direction and consultation on internal control issues. In addition, the authors include guidance to help controllers carryout their responsibilities to ensure that all financial accounts are reviewed for reasonableness and are reconciled to supporting transactions, as well as performing asset verification. Comprehensive in scope the book contains the best practices for controllers and: Reveals how to set the right tone within an organization and foster an ethical climate Includes information on risk management, internal controls, and fraud prevention Highlights the IT security controls with the key components of successful governance Examines the crucial role of the controller in corporate compliance and much more The Master Guide to Controllers’ Best Practices should be on the bookshelf of every controller who wants to ensure the well-being of their organization. In addition to their traditional financial role, today’s controllers (no matter how large or small their organization) are increasingly occupying top leadership positions. The revised and updated Second Edition of The Master Guide to Controllers’ Best Practices provides an essential resource for becoming better skilled in such areas as strategic planning, budgeting, risk management, and business intelligence. Drawing on the most recent research on the topic, informative case studies, and tips from finance professionals, the book highlights the most important challenges controllers will face. Written for both new and seasoned controllers, the Guide offers a wide range of effective tools that can be used to improve the skills of strategic planning, budgeting, forecasting, and risk management. The book also contains a resource for selecting the right employees who have the technical knowledge, analytical expertise, and strong people skills that will support the controller’s role within an organization. To advance overall corporate performance, the authors reveal how to successfully align strategy, risk management, and performance management. In addition, the Guide explains what it takes to stay ahead of emerging issues such as healthcare regulations, revenue recognition, globalization, and workforce mobility. As controllers adapt to their new leadership roles and assume more complex responsibilities, The Master Guide to Controllers’ Best Practices offers an authoritative guide to the tools, practices, and ideas controllers need to excel in their profession.