Director of Financial Planning & Reporting Job Interview Questions & Answers

Our Experts
Written by Our Experts

Got an interview coming up where you’re applying for the role of a director of financial planning and reporting? No worries! Listed below, you’ll find some of the most common director of financial planning and reporting interview questions with advice on how to reply. Check them out below (and good luck!)

What experience do you have as a director of financial planning and reporting?

A straightforward question that requires an honest answer – list experience you have as it pertains 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 doing this, you can actually turn your lack of experience into a showcase for your ability to relate and connect similar skillsets.

Answer Sample:

While my experience with x is limited, while working under y at my last job I really got to learn the ropes about z

What are some of major challenges the accounting industry faces looking ahead? How will it impact the role of director of financial planning and reporting?

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 systems have you developed to reduce/eliminate errors in your work?

Hey, no one is perfect – but when it comes to accounting & finance, perfection in numbers is expected. Here, your interviewer isn’t looking for some superhuman form of error free workmanship. 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

Tell me about a time you used graphs, charts, and data to drive home a point?

Numbers don’t lie. Here, it isn’t about you being right or a client being wrong, it’s about finding the facts through data. The key to answering this question is focusing on the outcome of data you furnished – and why it mattered.

Answer Sample:

In a recent client meeting, by clearly visualizing some key figures we were able to save them $10s of thousands in tax payable.

Tell me about a time when you received difficult feedback. How did you react?

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 denial? Deflection? By dealing with difficult situations calmly and with full accountability, you demonstrate qualities every employer loves.

Answer Sample:

Ill never forget the time my old boss talked to me about x. The way it was handled was totally professional, and thats been my model ever since.

Give me an example of when your attention (or lack of attention) affected the outcome of a project. Why?

Always with the details! You’d be hard pressed to find any job in the accounting & finance industry where being detail oriented isn’t a major requirement. Once again, saying it is one thing, being able to prove it is another.

Answer Sample:

By ensuring that x and y were carefully reviewed, the organization was able to save immensely on z

Which online tools, cloud software, or other accounting specific platforms are you familiar with?

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. Spend a night and compile names of cutting edge platforms, and mention these along with their purpose to your interviewer.

Answer Sample:

Im proficient in x and y, but ive ready tons of good things about z and would love to learn more about it

What sort of work culture do you find most appealing and why?

Work culture is huge and for good reason these days. 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 expectations and accountability are in place, and equally enjoy a balance of working solo / working as a team”

What made you leave your last job – and why are you choosing us?

Tread lightly! This question can be a dealbreaker if answered improperly. Seeking more money or mentioning the ‘terrible management’ 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

About the author

Our Experts

Our Experts

The Accounting Path's in house experts draw upon a broad network of professionals to bring you the most up to date information what’s happening in the accounting world.