Got a big interview where you’ll be applying as a Management accounting chief? Don’t sweat it! Here you can find some of the most often asked Management accounting chief interview questions along with sample answers. Check them out below (and good luck!)
What experience do you have as a Management accounting chief?
A straightforward question that requires an honest answer – list experience you have as it pertains to the position you’re applying for. What happens if you don’t have any experience? By thinking about the question ahead of time, you can have a reply at your fingertips. Your interviewer will appreciate your ability to relate skills gained in one position to another.
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
As we move into the future, what challenges do you feel our industry is facing, especially the role of Management accounting chief?
There are a variety of ways to answer this one. Try discussing ‘buzzworthy’ topics like AI, software, and inexpensive labor. Regardless of your answer, be sure to have something to backup your responses.
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?
To err is human, but not when it comes to accounting. While you may be a caped crusader with superhuman error-free work skills, your interviewer won’t buy it. What they’re looking for here is some sort of system of checks and balances.
Answer Sample:
While it may sound funny, Ive developed my own system for quality control that I call the x – its never let me down yet!
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:
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
Tell me about a time when you received difficult feedback. How did you react?
Difficult feedback is difficult for a reason. Your interviewer realizes that everyone makes mistakes, and they’re not looking to hang you out to dry. What you’re going to want to do here is be sure to let the interviewer know what you did in reaction to this feedback. 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:
No one likes these situations, but Ive found that dealing with it factually and without predjudice tends to be the best approach
Detail is critical in our industry – what do feel makes you a detail oriented person, and why?
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:
My careful attention to x and y prevented a major audit last year
Which accounting specific software are you familiar with?
Every modern accounting practice will require some level of proficiency when it comes to software. In the event that you don’t have experience with popular software, familiarize yourself with industry standards ahead of time. Spend a night and compile names of cutting edge platforms, and mention these along with their purpose to your interviewer.
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
Culture is important to us here. Which style of work enviornment do feel most productive in?
Every company wants to find the perfect culture match for their organization. It’s more than simply ‘the way things are done’, it’s how things are done and why. While you may be a lone wolf, be careful how you answer this question should it fall out of alignment with the organization.
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?
This one can be leading, and must be answered carefully. Seeking more money or mentioning the ‘terrible management’ at your last job may leave your interviewer with the wrong impression of you. Even if you were subject to downsizing or let go for other reasons, keep it short and concise, and avoid drama regardless of how tempting it may be.
Answer Sample:
My last position came to an end rather organically, and its now time to seek new opportunities