What makes this resume great
This resume is a strong example for a Controller position because it demonstrates a clear career progression in finance and accounting roles, culminating in significant leadership experience. The candidate holds both an MBA in Finance and a Bachelor’s in Accounting, which are highly relevant educational credentials. The skills listed are directly aligned with the core responsibilities of a Controller, such as financial reporting, internal controls, and ERP implementation. The work history shows increasing responsibility and expertise in financial management. The resume is also well-organized, making it easy for recruiters to quickly assess qualifications.
Resume summary examples for Controller
Example #1
Strong Summary
Results-driven Controller with 12+ years of progressive experience in financial management, budgeting, and internal controls, specializing in process improvement and ERP implementation for mid-to-large organizations.
Weak Summary
I have worked in finance for a while and have done a lot of different accounting tasks.
Example #2
Strong Summary
Accomplished finance leader with an MBA and a proven track record of optimizing financial operations, leading cross-functional teams, and ensuring compliance with GAAP standards.
Weak Summary
I have a degree in finance and have worked with teams before.
Example #3
Strong Summary
Strategic Controller skilled in financial reporting, audit management, and variance analysis, with a history of driving cost savings and operational efficiencies.
Weak Summary
I know how to do financial reports and audits.
Resume achievement examples for Controller
Example #1
Strong Achievement
Reduced monthly close process from 10 to 5 days by streamlining workflows and implementing new ERP modules, resulting in a 50% increase in reporting efficiency.
Weak Achievement
Helped make the monthly close process faster.
Example #2
Strong Achievement
Led a team of 8 in the successful completion of annual audits with zero major findings for three consecutive years.
Weak Achievement
Was in charge of the audit process for the company.
Example #3
Strong Achievement
Developed and managed annual budgets exceeding $50M, achieving a 7% reduction in operating expenses through strategic cost controls.
Weak Achievement
Worked on the company budget and helped save money.
Essential skills for a Controller
- Financial Reporting
- Budgeting
- GAAP
- Internal Controls
- ERP Implementation
- Team Leadership
- Variance Analysis
- Audit Management
- Process Improvement
- Strategic Planning
Resume best practices
Tailor Your Resume for a Controller
Customize your resume for the specific position you're applying for. Use keywords from the job description and highlight the most relevant experience.
Keep It Concise and Focused
Ideally, your resume should be one page (two if you have extensive experience). Focus on achievements and essential information and avoid fluff.
Use a Clean, Professional Format
Stick to a simple layout with consistent font, spacing, and section headings. Use bullet points for readability. Avoid overly decorative fonts or colors.
Start with a Strong Summary
Write a compelling summary or objective at the top that briefly outlines your background, key skills, and what you bring to being a Controller.
Emphasize Achievements Over Duties
Use bullet points to describe what you accomplished as a Controller, not just what you were responsible for. Include measurable results when possible (e.g., "Increased sales by 25% in six months").
Use Action Verbs
Start bullet points with strong action verbs like "Led," "Developed," "Improved," "Streamlined," to convey impact and ownership.
Highlight Skills and Tools
Create a dedicated skills section that includes technical tools, software, or soft skills relevant to being a Controller (e.g., Excel, Python, CRM systems, leadership, communication).
Include Education and Certifications
List your educational background and any relevant certifications or ongoing courses. Mention GPA if it’s strong (generally above 3.5) and you're early in your career.
Proofread Carefully
Avoid spelling or grammatical errors since they can be deal-breakers. Ask someone else to review your resume or use tools like Grammarly.