Got an interview coming up where you’re applying for the role of a Accounting and financial control director? No worries! On this page, we’ve listed some of the most common Accounting and financial control director interview questions along with sample answers. Read on!
What experience do you have as a Accounting and financial control director?
Here, you’ll obviously want to speak to your specific skills as they relate to the position you’re applying for. Don’t get caught off guard by this question should you not any actual experience. Plan ahead and have something relatable to share. In this way, you can turn a simple ‘no’ into an opportunity to demonstrate your awareness of related skillsets.
Answer Sample:
I believe the core requirement for x is y – and through my volunteer work I gained a ton of experience in how x fundamentally relates to y
What are some of major challenges the accounting industry faces looking ahead? How will it impact the role of Accounting and financial control director?
No right or wrong answers here, but certainly an opportunity to demonstrate some foresight. Try discussing ‘buzzworthy’ topics like AI, software, and inexpensive labor. However, be prepared to explain why you answered the way you did – and do some research ahead of time.
Answer Sample:
Its hard to know for sure with industry factors such as x and y changing so many things – all I can say is that Im excited for the challenges that come with that
What do you to ensure error free work?
To err is human, but not when it comes to accounting. No, the company you are applying to isn’t expecting their employees to be flawless. What your interviewer seeks here is a process for quality control.
Answer Sample:
Rain or shine, I always make sure that x is reviewed 3 times over and referenced against y before it goes out the door
Describe a situation you needed to use data to prove a point?
Numbers don’t lie. While it may be the epitomy of ‘nerdery’, story telling through data is a critical skill for those in the financial profession. Most accountants and financial professionals are doing this on a daily basis, but try and illustrate the impact of what you provided.
Answer Sample:
Our department had been struggling for years, but by clearly illustrating the relationship between x and y, we corrected and showed record improvements in the next quarter
Has there ever been a time you were required to deliver critical feedback?
One of the most difficult things to dispense – and receive – is critique of work. Anyone who has spent enough time in this industry realizes that human error is part of the job, and no one is perfect. Here, the important thing to do is let your interviewer know how you overcame this particular challenge. Was there ownership of a mistake, or deflection? By showing your cool in the reaction itself, you demonstrate leadership characteristics that employers love.
Answer Sample:
Ive been on both ends of critical feedback, and clear, consice presnetation of facts is paramount, as is accountability
Would those that know you describe you as a detail oriented person? Why might they describe you that way?
Always with the details! As an accountant, this is a serious requirement. Like many non-valid responses, your statement ‘yes I am a detail oriented person’ is not going to cut it.
Answer Sample:
By ensuring that x and y were carefully reviewed, the organization was able to save immensely on z
Which software and/or applications are you proficient in?
These days, your mastery of accounting software is practically expected. If your experience is limited, make sure you at least have a basic understanding of industry standards prior to the interview. Do some research and investigate new platforms or recent developments in the software field.
Answer Sample:
The bulk of my experience lies with the x platform, but Im fascinated with some of what the y system is capable of
What sort of work culture do you find most appealing and why?
Every company wants to find the perfect culture match for their organization. Simply put, culture fit means that your values are in alignment with your prospective employer’s. You’ll want to be careful here, indicating that you are able to thrive in a variety of work enviornments.
Answer Sample:
I succeed when given clear expectations of me and my team, and find a balance of working individually as well as alongside a team is when Im most content
Why are you leaving your last financial industry / accounting position?
This one can be leading, and must be answered carefully. Your desire for better compensation or venting about the ‘terrible leadership’ at your last job may leave your interviewer with the wrong impression of you. Regardless of the reason your employment ceased to be, keep it on point and do not get negative here.
Answer Sample:
My last position came to an end rather organically, and its now time to seek new opportunities