High demand for controllers, but confusion about the job content
The need for controllers has increased, partly due to companies' financial uncertainties. However, it does not seem to be easy for companies to find and retain controllers, as there is often a lack of clarity about the specific tasks of the position.
In times of uncertainty, many organizations have realized that they need a better understanding of their financial situation and the risks they are exposed to. This has led to a greater focus on improving control information and optimizing processes. Charlotte Jacobs, Senior Manager at Swiss recruiter Robert Walters and specialist in controller recruitment, emphasizes that this trend has gained momentum over the last two years. Good risk coverage has proven to be crucial for companies to become more agile.
Challenges in the recruitment and retention of controllers
The growing need for controllers is a result of the general demand for more control over finances and cost management. Charlotte: "Above all, companies are looking for controllers who can not only analyze the figures, but also interpret them and formulate targeted advice for management. This is essential for managing future risks."
False expectations
Companies are faced with the challenge of attracting and retaining the right controllers. "This is not only due to the general shortage in the job market, but also to the unclear expectations of the controller's role in the company," says Charlotte. "We often find that companies don't yet have full control and therefore need an experienced controller to achieve this. This can lead to confusion about the duties and responsibilities of the position.
Misunderstandings
Expectations are not always clear for controllers either. "Financial controllers are no longer just concerned with the figures. Nowadays, they are also expected to take on an advisory role to the organization," explains Charlotte. "However, not everyone is aware of this broadening of responsibilities, which can lead to confusion between the company and the applicant about the exact content of the job. This miscommunication can lead to the company investing a lot of time and money in controllers who leave after a few months because the content of the job turns out differently than expected."
Recruitment and retention of controllers
Controllers are in demand, and they know it. "They are critical and can be demanding in terms of salary and working conditions," says Charlotte. "I try to talk to recruiters as much as possible about what they're looking for in a controller, because that makes it easier to find the right candidate. The problem is that the term 'controller' can be interpreted in many ways and can therefore be filled in differently by applicants."
Charlotte advises companies to make it clear on paper exactly what the intended controller will do. "Hold internal discussions with employees in similar positions and research their expectations in detail. Then the chances of a match are many times higher, as is the chance that the new employee will stay with you."
Source: www.robertwalters.ch
