Interim Business Controller
An experienced business controller in place within days.
When the business needs a finance partner now
Nextt & Mason places experienced interim business controllers in companies across the Nordics within days. Controllers who follow up on performance, challenge the numbers and support management's decisions.
When do you need an interim business controller?
An interim business controller is the right choice when the role is vacant, or when a business unit needs closer financial follow-up than the current team can deliver. These are the situations we meet most often:
- The business controller leaves or goes on parental leave or sick leave
- Results are below budget, and management needs to understand why
- A business unit, a factory or a new market needs close financial follow-up
- Reporting must be rebuilt after a new ERP or BI system
- An acquired business must be brought into the group's reporting after an acquisition
What an interim business controller does
An interim business controller reports to the CFO or the finance manager and works closely with the managers in the business. The assignment typically focuses on:
- Follow-up on performance. Monthly results and key figures are reviewed, and deviations are explained, not just reported.
- Analysis that supports decisions. Profitability per product, customer or project is analysed, and investment cases are assessed.
- Budget and forecast. The unit's budget and forecasts are prepared with the managers who are responsible for delivering them.
- Handover. Reports, models and routines are documented, so the next business controller can take over without losing pace.
Business controlling is part of our CFO services. You can read more about how interim management works on our overview page.
Clients we helped
Browse Interim Business Controller assignments where we helped clients with Instant Leadership in Times of Change.
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FAQ: Interim business controller
What is an interim business controller?
An interim business controller is an experienced controller who supports a business unit, a factory or a function with financial management for a defined period. The controller is responsible for follow-up on performance, analysis, budgets and forecasts, and works closely with the managers in the business.
What is the difference between a business controller and a financial controller?
A business controller works close to the business and focuses on performance, analysis and decision support. A financial controller focuses on accounting, closing and correct financial reporting. If you need planning and analysis across the whole company, read more about our interim FP&A managers.
Can an interim business controller cover parental leave?
Yes. An interim business controller can take over the role for the whole period of leave, keep the monthly follow-up and the budget process on track, and hand back the role in good order when the permanent controller returns.
How long does an interim business controller assignment usually last?
Most assignments last between three and nine months. The duration is often tied to a period of leave, a budget process, a system implementation or an integration.