Controller's Operational Skills Program

May 24-27, 2026 | Online
September 16-19, 2026 | Whistler
December 9-12, 2026 | Online

Enhance your skills in core technical processes and procedures of the financial role.

The Controller’s Operational Skills Program is designed to enhance your role on the management team by sharpening your skills in risk management and controls, ethical leadership, planning, budgeting and forecasting, performance measurement approaches and financial reporting. Explore ways to maximize the effectiveness of your accounting department through staffing and structure, policies and procedures, and process and quality management, and gain insights into performance enablers for success.

As part of the CPABC Controllership Program, this program will focus on core technical and operational skills. The Controller’s Management Program will focus on management soft skills. You can choose to complete only one of these programs, but if you complete both components you will receive the CPABC Controllership Program Certificate. They can be completed in any order as they focus on separate and distinct skills.

In-Person Version Registration Online Version Registration

Eligible CPD Hours: 25
Program Online Fee: $2,350 Early Bird | $2,450 Regular
Program In-person Fee: $3,350 Early Bird | $3,650 Regular

Curriculum

The Controller's Role

A framework for effective controllership
Risk identification, management, and controls
Planning, budgeting, and forecasting
Performance monitoring and reporting
Financial standards and statutory reporting

Running an Effective Accounting Department

Organizing an effective accounting team (including people and process)
Purchasing and payables
Credit, billing, and collections
Inventory planning and management
Cash planning and management

Performance Enablers and the Way Forward

Brief introduction to managing change
Information technology – today and tomorrow
Controller’s role in HR management
Emerging issues and trends
Personal life skills, action planning, and closing

Approximately half of the total program time is allocated to group activity and discussion to build a high level of engagement, sharing of participants’ ideas, and general networking.

In-Person Version Registration Online Version Registration

MIA MAKI, BA, MBA, FCPA, FCMA is a Principal of a consulting firm and a Professor with the University of Victoria Gustavson School of Business, with over 25 years of teaching experience.

Learn more about Mia Maki...

MIA MAKI, BA, MBA, FCPA, FCMA is a Principal of a consulting firm, and Associate Dean, External & Outreach, at the Gustavson School of Business, University of Victoria, with over 25 years of teaching experience. She has worked in Finance and Accounting since 1986 and has experience in a wide variety of industries, including audio technology, airlines and aviation, not-for-profit, public accounting, marine transportation, fisheries monitoring, gaming and other technology arenas. She has worked for both private and public companies, has participated in raising over $50M in funds, and has experience in international initiatives.