What are the requirements to become an assistant controller in a manufacturing company?

Question

I am interviewing with a manufacturing company next week. The company manufactures central a/c units. I have about 3 years experience in finance and costing and a Finance Degree from Texas. Personally I do not know that I qualify for the position but they asked to interview me. I am not an accountant, as a metter of fact I only have 12 hours of accounting. I do not want to waste their time, however I feel that if I get my foot inthe door the sky will be the limit b/c I will do everything in my power to exceed all of their expectations. How can I relay that mentality without sounding like I am begging for something that I may not be ready for right at this very moment? How can I sell myself for this position? What can I do in the next week and half to prepare for the questions that they may ask? What kind of questions can I expect? What skills in particular will make me standout and be chosen for this position? Thanks.

Develop metrics to aid in improving efficiency and effectiveness. Provide insight for specific improvements in plant material, labor, overhead, floor planning, inventory levels, staffing, etc. to improve efficiency and effectiveness of the plant.
Analyzing (vs. fcst, plan, & PY), distributing, and presenting financials to Plant operating Team. Training personnel on interpreting financials and identifying root causes of any problematic areas, guiding implementation of corrective action, and monitoring results.
Working with plant personnel in preparing the annual budget, along with weekly and monthly forecasts.
Ensure adequate controls and procedures. Assist Plant Operations in maintaining compliance with SOX requirements, performing plant audits and maintaining controls. Monitoring compliance and providing corrective support as it relates to internal audit deficiencies.
Reconcile and maintain accurate inventory records within the scope of the Plant Operations

Answer 1

I guess that it depends on the skills that they are looking for. Manufacturing accounting is in a world of its own. There isn't as much pure accounting than is in a service organization. Often they are looking for someone that can talk to others. My degree is in Philosophy and I believe that I have a better ability to explain the accounting needs and results to people in a manufacturing operation that a CPA.
I would stress that ability. To communicate and make a difference. Even with 12 hours of accounting, you know the basics and how systems work. But to make you different, it is important to talk about communications and the ability to investigate.

Answer 2

For most organizations, the assistant controller is in charge of the company's ledger system. They oversee accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, and are responsible for the period closings. This is typically someone with a strong accounting background as they will be creating and posting journal entries, as well as overseeing the transactions posted through AR & AP. Most positions using that title also require a certain number of years of management experience. However, depending on how the finance dept is structured, they may be looking for someone to oversee their costing system. You should get a copy of the job description and requirements so you'll know exactly what they are looking for. Good luck.