Choosing a Tech-Savvy Fractional Controller: What Software Skills Matter Most?

A fractional financial controller plays a key role in managing your company’s finances, ensuring compliance, and improving your financial strategy. 

But beyond expertise in accounting principles and cash flow management, technology skills are just as critical. 

Your company’s financial operations rely on software to track expenses, manage reporting, and analyze financial trends. If your fractional financial controller lacks the right tech expertise, you may face inefficiencies, reporting delays, or even costly errors.

What software and technology knowledge should you look for in a fractional financial controller? Here’s what I would advise matters most.

1. Accounting Software: The Foundation of Financial Management

Your controller should be proficient in the accounting software your business already uses—or be able to recommend and transition you to a better system. The most commonly used accounting tools for small and mid-sized businesses include:

QuickBooks Online or QuickBooks Desktop – A widely used accounting solution, QuickBooks handles invoicing, expense tracking, payroll, and reporting. Your controller should be able to customize reports, integrate third-party apps, and optimize workflows.

Xero – A cloud-based platform known for automation, real-time data syncing, and integrations with payment systems and financial apps.

Sage Intacct – More robust than QuickBooks or Xero, Sage Intacct offers advanced reporting, automation, and scalability for growing businesses.

A controller who understands these tools can reduce manual data entry, improve reporting accuracy, and ensure compliance with tax regulations.

2. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems for Growth

As businesses grow, financial operations become more complex. If your company has multiple revenue streams, inventory management, or industry-specific needs, an ERP system may be necessary. These platforms integrate accounting, supply chain management, HR, and other business processes.

A fractional financial controller experienced in ERP systems can ensure seamless data migration, reporting accuracy, and system optimization. Common ERPs include:

NetSuite – A cloud-based ERP with built-in financial management, reporting, and compliance tools.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 – A flexible ERP system that integrates financial operations, customer relationship management (CRM), and supply chain management.

SAP Business One – A scalable ERP for small and mid-sized businesses, offering financial and operational tracking in a single platform.

If your business is considering an ERP, your controller should help evaluate which system fits your needs, oversee the implementation process, and train your team.

3. Financial Reporting and Data Analytics Tools

Understanding financial performance goes beyond balance sheets and profit-and-loss statements. Today’s business owners need data-driven insights to make informed decisions. A tech-savvy fractional controller should be familiar with:

Microsoft Excel & Google Sheets – Advanced knowledge of pivot tables, macros, and formulas is essential for financial modeling and data analysis.

Power BI or Tableau – These business intelligence tools help visualize financial trends, cash flow patterns, and key performance indicators (KPIs).

Fathom, Spotlight Reporting, or Jirav – Specialized financial reporting tools that integrate with QuickBooks, Xero, and ERPs to create in-depth performance reports.

A controller proficient in data visualization and forecasting can turn raw numbers into actionable insights (the kind CEOs like), helping to optimize cash flow and plan for growth.

4. Payroll, Tax Compliance, and Expense Management Systems

Your fractional controller should also be familiar with financial tools that simplify payroll, tax filings, and expense tracking. These include:

ADP, Gusto, or Paychex – Payroll processing systems that ensure compliance with tax laws and automate payroll management.

Expensify or Divvy – Expense tracking software that streamlines reimbursements and spending oversight.

Avalara or TaxJar – Sales tax automation tools that help businesses manage multi-state tax filings.

By integrating these tools into your financial workflow, a skilled controller ensures compliance, reduces administrative burden, and prevents costly errors.

Why Software Expertise Matters in a Fractional Controller

Hiring a fractional financial controller with strong technology skills means:

• Faster Onboarding – A controller familiar with your existing tools can integrate seamlessly into your operations.
• Less Manual Work – Automation and optimization reduce errors and save time.
• Better Financial Insights – Advanced reporting tools provide real-time financial clarity.
• Scalability for Growth – The right tech stack supports your business as it expands.

The best fractional controllers don’t just manage finances—they leverage technology to improve efficiency, accuracy, and strategic decision-making.

Choosing the Right Tech-Savvy Controller

When evaluating a fractional financial controller, ask about their experience with:

• Your current accounting system 
• ERP platforms if your business is scaling
• Financial reporting and analytics tools
• Payroll, tax, and expense management software

With the right expertise, a fractional controller won’t just keep your financials in order—they’ll enhance efficiency and support your business’s long-term success. If you’re ready to start making smarter, more confident financial decisions for your business, reach out to the Mod Ventures team today for a consultation. The right support and resources (such as a fractional CFO or Financial Controller) can turn data into your business’s most valuable asset.