Looking into doing this instead of the CPA route. Currently the controller for multiple companies with no intention of going back into public accounting. Is the CMA the right option and any pointers you would want to give for someone going to study for it? Not as much guidance out there as there is for the CPA exam.

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Posted by ATLdawg25

Atlanta, GA

Member since Oct 2014

4370 posts

Posted on 10/9/17 at 10:56 am to LigerFan

quote:
Currently the controller for multiple companies

How did you get a controller position without a CPA?

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Posted by LigerFan

Member since Jan 2014

2713 posts

Posted on 10/9/17 at 11:07 am to ATLdawg25

quote:
How did you get a controller position without a CPA?

Definitely not unheard of. Did public accounting for 3 years and learned as much as I could from the higher-ups. Just never sat down and tried to take the test. I know a lot of CPAs that couldn't reconcile a balance sheet account and a lot of none-CPAs that could run circles around me.

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Posted by southernelite

Dallas

Member since Sep 2009

53177 posts

Posted on 10/9/17 at 11:11 am to LigerFan

Look around at some jobs at the same level as you or one to two steps up that'd you'd eventually. Most will require CPA. A few may ask for CMA, but probably not that many.

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Posted by SaulGoodman

Albuquerque, NM

Member since Mar 2016

184 posts

Posted on 10/21/17 at 3:48 pm to southernelite

Bump.
I'm also considering the CMA. It seems more practical than the CPA for controller/finance director positions. I know the CPA is great for auditors and tax managers.

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Posted by lynxcat

Member since Jan 2008

24159 posts

Posted on 10/22/17 at 8:36 am to SaulGoodman

CMA is a more practical skill set for someone in FP&A or CFO aspirations.

CPA is what has the prestige to get you into the senior roles.

CMA just isn’t going to open doors but the material is helpful.

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