Accounting controller

What does an Accounting Controller do? – Tasks and work environment

An Accounting Controller mainly works to ensure that the company's bookkeeping, accounting, and reporting are of high quality and meet legal requirements. The role involves close collaboration with finance departments, auditors, and management to analyze financial flows, identify deviations, and suggest improvements. Tasks often include budgeting, forecasts, monthly and annual closings, as well as preparing reports and analyses for decision-making. The work environment is typically office-based, characterized by a fast pace and high demands for accuracy, especially in larger companies or corporations where complexity is high.

Salary development over time

The salary of an Accounting Controller has shown a steady increase over the past three years. In 2022, the average salary was 52,600 SEK per month. In 2023, it rose to 54 700 SEK, corresponding to an increase of about 4%. In 2024, the average salary is 56 600 SEK, representing a further increase of over 3.5%. This salary development reflects a continued high demand for qualified controllers and that employers increasingly value skills in accounting and analysis. The salary increase can also be explained by increased complexity in regulations and reporting requirements, as well as a general trend towards higher education and experience demands within the profession.

Accounting Controller salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 56 600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 67,000 SEK/month (male, private sector employee, post-secondary education of 3 years or more)
• Lowest salary: 40,500 SEK/month (female, public sector, pre-secondary education)
• Hourly wage (average): 340 SEK
• Gender differences: Men 61 900 SEK, women 53 200 SEK (women earn 86% of men's salary)
• Regional differences: Data varies, but higher salaries are often found in metropolitan areas

Education and qualifications

To work as an Accounting Controller, a post-secondary education in economics is usually required, often at university or college level. Many employers also value specific courses in accounting, auditing, and financial analysis. Practical experience from an finance department or accounting firm is highly meritorious, and some choose to specialize through certifications or further education.

• Formal education: Degree in economics from university or college (3–4.5 years)
• Certifications: Courses in accounting, IFRS, or controller-oriented programs
• Internship: Experience from finance department or accounting firm is considered a strong merit
• Prerequisites: Good knowledge of mathematics, economics, and business systems
• Tip: Focus on accounting for the best match with the Accounting Controller role

Common benefits and compensations

Accounting Controllers are often offered benefits such as occupational pension, wellness allowance, remote work options, and extra vacation days. Bonus programs and further training are common, especially in larger companies. The benefits structure can vary depending on the employer and sector.

Competition and challenges

The competition for positions as an Accounting Controller is relatively balanced, with a large number of qualified applicants for each position. Currently, there are 758 job openings nationwide in the profession, indicating stable demand. Challenges in the role often involve staying updated on changing regulations and the digitization of financial processes. The role demands high accuracy and the ability to deliver under pressure, especially during closings and reporting. The ability to interpret and communicate complex figures to non-economists is also an important success factor.

Tips for those who want to become an Accounting Controller

To succeed as an Accounting Controller, it is good to combine analytical skills with accuracy and a genuine interest in numbers. Gaining early experience from finance departments or accounting firms provides valuable insight into the profession's daily work and enhances understanding of financial processes. The ability to work systematically and meet deadlines is crucial, especially during closings and reporting. Good communication skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues and management, while technical curiosity helps with the implementation of new business systems. A willingness to continuously further educate oneself and stay updated on changing regulations makes it easier to develop and take the next step in your career.

Key facts about Accounting Controller

• Education level: Degree in economics (3–4.5 years)
• Work environment: Office-based, often in larger companies or corporations
• Demand: 758 job openings nationwide (2024)
• Gender differences: Women earn 86% of men's salaries
• Typical work arrangement: Full-time, daytime, sometimes with remote work elements

Career paths and future prospects

After a few years as an Accounting Controller, there are opportunities to advance to more senior roles such as Finance Manager, Finance Director, or specialist roles within group accounting and internal control. In larger companies, project management or roles within business development can also be natural next steps. According to the Swedish Public Employment Service's forecast, the employment prospects are assessed as moderate and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. The recruitment situation is characterized by balance, but digitization and new regulations mean that current knowledge is highly valued. There are good opportunities for further education and specialization within the profession, which can lead to increased responsibility and higher salary over time.

Frequently asked questions about Accounting Controller

• What does an Accounting Controller earn?
  - An Accounting Controller has an average salary of 56 600 SEK per month, but the salary varies depending on experience, education, and sector.
• Are there salary differences between men and women?
  - Yes, men earn on average 61 900 SEK and women 53 200 SEK, which means women earn 86% of men's salaries.
• What is required to become an Accounting Controller?
  - A university degree in economics, preferably with a focus on accounting, and practical experience from an finance department are recommended.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - Employment opportunities are assessed as moderate, and demand is expected to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• What career paths are available after a few years in the profession?
  - Common career paths include Finance Manager, Finance Director, or specialist roles within accounting and internal control.
• What are the tasks of an Accounting Controller?
  - Tasks include closing, reporting, budgeting, analysis, and improving financial processes.
• How high is the demand for Accounting Controllers?
  - There are currently 758 job openings nationwide for the profession.