Finance

How to become a Controller

Starting from accountant. Here is the whole route — what each step is, roughly how long it takes, and the credential it earns you.

Time to get there

6–10 years

Typical pay

$115k–$165k

Starting from

Accountant

The steps

1. 1

   Build accounting depth

   Close, consolidation, and technical accounting judgement.

   5–8 years

   Course that covers thisAccounting Fundamentals: From Zero to HeroUdemy · around $19.99 →
2. 2

   Get the CPA

   Effectively expected at this level, even where it is not formally required.

   CPA

3. 3

   Run a close cycle end to end

   Accounting manager is the seat where you prove you can own it.

   2–3 years

4. 4

   Learn systems and controls

   ERP ownership and SOX-style controls are half the modern controller role.

   Course that covers thisLearn Business and Financial ModelingUdemy · around $19.99 →

Course links are Udemy affiliate links — we earn a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you. Licences and exams named above are issued by state boards and certifying bodies we have no relationship with; we list them because they are what the job actually requires.