10 Challenges Financial Controllers Will Face in 2025

According to the 2025 CFO/Controller Outlook & Sentiment Study by the Controllers Council, there’s a notable surge in confidence among financial leaders, with a Financial Performance Index (FPI) of 143%, indicating robust growth expectations.

2025 is a different world for financial controllers. You’re not just closing the books anymore. You need to lead your team, handle new technology, manage lots of data, and support key business decisions. The role is more complex and demanding than ever.

Here’s a look at the 10 biggest challenges financial controllers face today – and practical ways to deal with them.

What Is a Financial Controller?

A financial controller manages a company’s accounting and financial operations. The exact duties depend on the company’s size and structure. Usually, they:

• Prepare budgets
• Track financial performance
• Manage payroll
• Oversee financial reports
• Lead the finance team

In bigger companies, controllers report to the CFO. In smaller ones, the role may cover more strategic tasks.

1. Managing a Distributed Workforce

Many companies let staff work from home, at least part-time. This helps productivity but creates problems for team communication and training. When teams are spread out, mistakes happen more often and can take longer to fix.

How to handle it: Use a cloud-based system like NetSuite. It keeps everyone on the same page. Controllers can see real-time work status and catch problems early.

For example, one global company cut its financial close time by 35% after automating processes with BlackLine.

2. Keeping Up with Technology

Technology like AI, machine learning, and automation is changing finance fast. Controllers need to understand these tools and how to use them.

How to handle it: Keep learning and work closely with IT. Choose technology that fits your financial needs and frees up time for strategy.

3. Dealing with Data Overload

Companies collect huge amounts of data. But it’s hard to manage if the data is scattered or stored in different formats. This slows down reporting and risks errors.

How to handle it: Integrate data systems and control who can access what. Use dashboards and reports that show clear, consistent data to the right people.

4. Explaining Financial Information Clearly

Numbers don’t speak for themselves. Controllers must explain financial results in simple terms. They need to make reports understandable for management, board members, and other departments.

How to handle it: Use data visualization tools to make reports easier to follow. Work on communication skills so you can explain what the numbers mean and why they matter.

A survey found 71% of business leaders think data storytelling is important, but many finance teams lack this skill.

5. Managing Global Expansion

Doing business internationally adds complexity. Controllers must deal with different tax rules, currencies, and reporting standards. Without good tools, this is a big challenge.

How to handle it: Use software that supports multiple currencies and complies with global accounting rules. Set up processes to track local regulations and currency conversions.

One SaaS company expanded to four countries using NetSuite’s global features without much trouble.

6. Adapting to Changing Business Models

New business models, like subscriptions and digital sales, bring complicated accounting rules. Controllers must keep up with these changes and manage the related financial impact.

How to handle it: Use cloud finance software that adjusts to new revenue recognition and compliance needs. Stay informed about accounting standards.

7. Keeping and Motivating Talent

Burnout and turnover are big issues in finance teams. Losing skilled people hurts the whole operation.

How to handle it: Work with HR on retention plans. Provide training, mentorship, and clear career paths to keep your team motivated.

8. Learning New Skills

Traditional finance skills are still needed. But new skills like data analysis, technology use, and team leadership are also important.

How to handle it: Invest in your own and your team’s training. Look for courses on analytics, digital tools, and agile management. Many CFOs say analytics skills should be mandatory.

9. Protecting Data Security

Finance teams handle sensitive information. But many companies don’t have strong security measures in place. This puts data at risk.

How to handle it: Push for secure cloud systems with strong access controls and regular updates. Controllers should be part of security planning.

10. Using Robotic Process Automation (RPA)

Many finance processes are still done manually. But automation can save time and reduce errors.

How to handle it: Start automating simple, repetitive tasks like data entry and reconciliations. Use your understanding of finance processes to guide the automation plan.

A recent survey found only 1% of finance teams had automated most of their processes, so there’s room to improve.

Final Thoughts

The role of financial controllers is changing fast. The challenges are real but manageable with the right tools and skills.

Focus on improving your team’s technology, communication, and data skills. Keep learning and adapt to new business realities. These steps will help you handle 2025’s demands and prepare for what’s next.