# Controller Role Interview: Discussing Process, Transition, and Fit

**March 02, 2026 at 03:01 PM** · 35m 7s · Participants: JD Busfield, Maria

### Bottom Line
This was an interview for a Controller/Head of Finance role to replace an underperforming outsourced accounting team. The candidate (Maria) demonstrated relevant industry experience and a process-oriented mindset, and the interviewer (Speaker A) outlined the need for timely closes, detailed asset management, and process ownership.

### Key Takeaways
- **Role Context:** The role is to replace an expensive, slow outsourced accounting team and bring financial closing, asset management, and process control in-house.
- **Candidate Fit:** Maria is a CPA with shared services, media/construction industry, and fixed asset management experience, seeking a structured, deliverable-oriented role with schedule flexibility.
- **Technical Challenge:** The company manages complex fixed assets across 6 entities using Excel, with plans to implement a new software layer on top of QuickBooks for consolidation and scheduling.
- **Process Goal:** The primary objectives are achieving consistent 10-business-day closes and creating reliable, visible financial schedules through improved processes and controls.

### Action Items
- [ ] Maria to share an example of her previous work on recalculating fixed asset depreciation (GAAP vs. tax) and asset reconciliation, after removing sensitive information. — @Maria `high`
- [ ] Maria to send the work example to Nicole (recruiter/contact) for forwarding to Speaker A. — @Maria `high`
- [ ] Speaker A to review the shared work example and determine if further proof of competence or a formal technical exercise is needed. — @JD Busfield `medium`
- [ ] Speaker A to continue building/implementing the new software layer on QuickBooks for consolidation and fixed asset management. — @JD Busfield `medium`
- [ ] Both parties to consider the feasibility and transition plan for achieving a 10-business-day close with a new in-house hire. `medium`

### Topics
Role Background, Candidate Experience, Current Accounting Challenges, Fixed Asset Management, Process Improvement, System Transition, Team Structure, Closing Timeline, Work Flexibility

**Sentiment:** positive

---
*Generated by Call Assistant on 2026-04-09 11:43*