As a senior financial executive, a controller's role is critical to an organization's financial stability and success. Controllers are responsible for managing financial reporting and accounting functions and developing and implementing strategies to navigate crises. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the role of a controller in financial management and crisis navigation, including their responsibilities, case studies, and best practices.

Controllers play a key role in managing the financial health of an organization. They oversee financial reporting, accounting, budgeting, forecasting, risk management, and compliance with regulations. In times of crisis, the role of a controller becomes even more important, as they are responsible for developing and implementing strategies to navigate the crisis and protect the organization's financial health.

Financial management responsibilities of a controller

Financial reporting One of the key responsibilities of a controller is to ensure the accurate and timely preparation and presentation of financial reports. These reports include income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements and provide critical information to stakeholders, such as investors, creditors, and regulatory agencies. Controllers must ensure that financial reports are prepared in compliance with accounting standards and regulations and that any errors or discrepancies are identified and corrected.

Accounting 

Controllers are also responsible for managing the accounting activities of the organization. This includes managing the general ledger, ensuring compliance with accounting standards and regulations, and overseeing the month-end and year-end close process. Controllers must ensure that all transactions are properly recorded and that the financial statements accurately reflect the organization's financial position.

Budgeting and forecasting

Another important responsibility of a controller is to develop and maintain the organization's budgeting and forecasting process. This involves working closely with other departments to develop budgets and financial forecasts, ensuring that financial targets are met, and identifying areas for improvement and opportunities for growth.

Internal controls 

Controllers are responsible for establishing and maintaining effective internal controls to safeguard the organization's assets and ensure compliance with company policies and procedures. This includes developing policies and procedures, monitoring compliance, and conducting regular audits to ensure that internal controls operate effectively.

Financial analysis

Controllers are also responsible for analyzing financial data to identify trends and provide insights to management. This includes identifying areas for improvement and opportunities for growth, as well as developing strategies to manage financial risk and optimize the organization's financial performance.

Crisis navigation responsibilities of a controller

Risk assessment One of the most critical responsibilities of a controller during a crisis is to assess the risks associated with the crisis and develop strategies to mitigate them. This includes identifying the potential financial impact of the crisis on the organization, assessing the organization's exposure to different types of financial instruments and transactions, and analyzing the risks associated with different scenarios that may arise during the crisis.

Developing contingency plans

Controllers must develop contingency plans to address various scenarios that may arise during a crisis, such as a sudden loss of funding or a sharp decline in asset values. This may involve establishing lines of credit or other sources of funding, developing plans to reduce costs, or identifying alternative suppliers or customers.

Managing liquidity

Controllers must ensure the organization has sufficient liquidity to meet its financial obligations, such as paying bills and making payroll. This may involve establishing lines of credit or other funding sources, developing cash management strategies to ensure that the organization has enough cash on hand to meet its obligations, and identifying sources of financing that may be available during a crisis.

Working with regulators

Controllers must work closely with regulatory agencies during a crisis to ensure that the organization is complying with all applicable regulations and requirements, such as reporting requirements, capital adequacy, and liquidity standards. This may involve providing regular reports and updates to regulators about the organization's financial situation and progress in managing the crisis. Controllers must also ensure that the organization follows all applicable laws and regulations, which is crucial during financial stress.

Communicating with stakeholders

Controllers must maintain open and transparent communication with stakeholders during a crisis, including investors, creditors, customers, and employees. This includes providing regular updates on the organization's financial performance and the progress of the crisis management plan, as well as responding to inquiries from stakeholders.

Case studies 

One example of a controller who successfully navigated a crisis is Mary Barra, the CEO of General Motors. In 2014, the company faced a crisis due to a faulty ignition switch linked to 124 deaths. Barra worked with her team to quickly recall millions of cars and develop a plan to compensate victims and their families. She also implemented new safety measures and established a new culture of transparency and accountability within the company.

Another example of a controller who faced challenges during a crisis is Lehman Brothers' CFO, Erin Callan. In 2008, Lehman Brothers faced a liquidity crisis and was ultimately forced to file for bankruptcy. Callan faced criticism for not adequately managing risk and failing to communicate transparently with stakeholders. Her handling of the crisis ultimately led to her resignation.

The cases of Mary Barra and Erin Callan highlight the importance of effective crisis management and communication during a crisis. Controllers must be prepared to assess risks quickly and develop effective strategies to navigate a crisis. They must also maintain open and transparent communication with stakeholders to build trust and maintain confidence in the organization's ability to manage the crisis.

Best practices for controllers

Developing effective risk management strategies Controllers must develop effective risk management strategies to identify and mitigate risks. This includes assessing the organization's exposure to different financial instruments and transactions, analyzing the potential impact of different scenarios, and developing contingency plans to address potential risks.

Maintaining compliance with regulations and internal policies 

• Controllers must ensure that the organization complies with all applicable laws and regulations, as well as internal policies and procedures. This includes establishing controls to monitor compliance, conducting regular audits, and working closely with regulators to ensure the organization meets its obligations.
• Controllers must maintain open and transparent communication with stakeholders, including investors, creditors, customers, and employees. This includes providing regular updates on the organization's financial performance and the progress of the crisis management plan, as well as responding to inquiries from stakeholders.
• Controllers must continuously review and update crisis management plans to remain effective and relevant. This includes incorporating lessons learned from previous crises, updating contact information for key stakeholders, and revising response procedures based on organizational operations or risk profile changes.

Final Thoughts

The role of a controller in financial management and crisis navigation is critical to the success and stability of an organization. Controllers are responsible for managing financial reporting and accounting functions, developing and implementing strategies to manage risk, and ensuring compliance with regulations. 

During a crisis, the role of a controller becomes even more critical, as they are responsible for assessing risks, developing contingency plans, managing liquidity, and communicating with stakeholders. By developing effective risk management strategies, maintaining compliance, communicating openly with stakeholders, and continuously reviewing and updating crisis management plans, controllers can help organizations navigate crises and protect their financial health and reputation.