Financial Controller · cover letter
[Date]
Dear [Hiring Manager],
In my first year as Controller I shortened the month-end close from twelve days to five while taking our external audit from three rounds of adjustments down to zero. I would like to bring that combination of speed and rigor to the finance function at [Company].
I currently lead a team of seven across general ledger, accounts payable, and accounts receivable for a 60 million dollar company. I own the consolidated financial reporting package the board reviews each month, ensure it is prepared in accordance with GAAP, and manage the relationship with our external auditors so fieldwork stays predictable and on schedule.
Strong numbers start with strong controls. I redesigned our internal controls around revenue recognition and approval thresholds, which closed two material weaknesses flagged the prior year and tightened our SOX documentation. On the planning side, I rebuilt the annual budget and rolling forecast in our ERP so department heads finally trust the variance reports they receive, and forecast accuracy improved to within three percent.
What appeals to me about [Company] is the move toward a more strategic finance function. As a CPA, I am comfortable being the person who keeps the books defensible and also sits with leadership to pressure-test the plan behind the numbers.
The move from twelve days to five came from closing subledgers daily, a habit that also produced the zero-adjustment audit right behind it, and I can outline the calendar that made both possible. As a CPA, I hold myself to that same standard before an auditor ever has to ask.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
[Phone]
[Email]