what is the difference between a treasurer and a controller and what are their powers and functions?

Answer 1

A treasurer can be one of a couple of things. A treasurer may be the official formally in charge of receiving and disbursing funds in a company's name. He or she would be appointed by and answer to the board of directors.

A treasurer might also be, like a controller, someone who reports to the CFO.

Monster's description of a controller is similar to the description of
a chief accounting officer:

"Responsible for directing an organization's accounting functions.
These functions include establishing and maintaining the
organization's accounting principles, practices, procedures, and
initiatives. Prepares financial reports and presents findings and
recommendations to top management"

Source: Monster.com, "Controller,"
http://salary.monster.com/salarywizard/docs/salaryreport/mnstrjoblisthtmls/mnstrsrpjob_FA06000023.html.

Answer 2

A controller is an officer of a corporation who handles the accounting functions, doing the books, etc. Typicaly is a certified public accountant and has to follow accounting standards. A treasurer is focused on the money and investments of the corporation and handles such things as bank accounts, investments, cash flow, etc.