If you run a growing business then it may be time to bring in some outside help to aid you in keeping your company's financials organized and accurate.
In this article we will discuss the difference between a bookkeeper and a controller.
Bookkeeper vs. Controller: What's the Difference?
The main responsibility of a bookkeeper is to record and classify transactions as they flow through a business, while the main responsibility of a controller is to oversee the entire accounting department to ensure all tasks are completed timely, efficiently, and accurately.
It is possible that a controller ends up handling some or all of the bookkeeping tasks for a business, but it is very unlikely that a bookkeeper ever takes on the responsibilities of a controller.
If you run a smaller business that is growing steadily then it may be best for you to hire a bookkeeper to help you stay organized.
However, if you own a larger business that is growing rapidly, then it may makes sense for you to hire a full or part-time controller to oversee your accounting functions.
Bookkeeper: Main Responsibilities
It is the job of the bookkeeper to keep all financial records organized and accurate.
Here are some of the main tasks a bookkeeper is responsible for.
- Recording transactions as they flow through the business
- Classifying transactions into the correct accounts
- Reconciling bank accounts to ensure that book balance matches the bank balance
- Preparing financial statements for the controller, management, or owners to analyze
Controller: Main Responsibilities
It is the job of the controller to oversee the financial department within your business.
Here are some of the main tasks a controller is responsible for.
- Managing a company's financial department
- Overseeing accounting teams
- Advising executives on financial matters and analyzing financial statements
- Ensuring that accounting functions are completed in a timely and efficient manner
Bookkeeper vs. Controller: Conclusion
A bookkeeper is great for someone who already has some accounting knowledge and just needs help keeping up with recording and organizing financial data.
If you run a small business and are looking for help with your financials, then a bookkeeper or accountant may be your best option.
A controller is great for someone running a larger business that already has one or multiple accountants and bookkeepers working for them.
An experienced controller will be able to take over the management of your accounting team, as well provide valuable insights into your financial position.
A bookkeeper and a controller play a much different role within a business, therefore it is important that you evaluate your own unique scenario in order to decide which type of financial professional is best for your business.
How Noon Can Help Your Business Thrive
Noon Bookkeeping is an outsourced bookkeeping solution for business owners consisting of a team of certified, expert bookkeepers ready to help you organize the finances of your business.
Noon can handle all of your bookkeeping in one place so that you can focus on running and growing your unique business knowing that we’ve got your finances handled.
Learn more about how Noon can help you take control of your finances.