If you’ve ever searched “Need Controller Des Moines”, you’ve likely reached a point where your business finances require more than basic bookkeeping—but you might not need a full-time CFO just yet. Many business owners struggle to know when it’s time to move beyond a bookkeeper and bring in a controller or outsourced CPA.

In this article, we’ll break down the roles of a bookkeeper and a controller, how they differ, and how CustomOne CFO & Controllers helps Central Iowa businesses get the right level of financial expertise at the right time.

What Does a Bookkeeper Do?

A bookkeeper is the foundation of your business’s financial recordkeeping. They manage the day-to-day transactions that keep your books accurate and up-to-date.

Typical Bookkeeping Responsibilities:

• Recording sales, expenses, and payroll

• Reconciling bank and credit card accounts

• Managing accounts receivable and accounts payable

• Preparing basic financial reports

• Ensuring records are organized for tax season

If you search “Bookkeeping Des Moines”, you’ll find plenty of talented professionals who can help keep your books clean and compliant. But while a bookkeeper is essential for accuracy, they usually don’t provide high-level financial analysis or strategic guidance.

What Does a Controller Do?

A controller is a step up from a bookkeeper in terms of expertise and responsibility. While a bookkeeper focuses on accurate recordkeeping, a controller focuses on financial oversight, process improvement, and strategic reporting.

Typical Controller Responsibilities:

• Overseeing bookkeeping processes for accuracy and compliance

• Managing internal controls and financial procedures

• Creating detailed financial reports and KPI dashboards

• Analyzing trends to identify cost savings and profitability opportunities

• Coordinating with CPAs for tax strategy and audit preparation

• Advising owners and executives on financial decisions

The Key Differences Between a Bookkeeper and Controller

Think of it like this: a bookkeeper records the play-by-play of your business finances, while a controller calls the plays that help you win the game.

Where an Outsourced CPA Fits In

A CPA (Certified Public Accountant) brings tax expertise and compliance knowledge to the table. Many Des Moines businesses combine a bookkeeper or controller with an outsourced CPA to create a full financial support team.

At CustomOne CFO & Controllers, we work alongside your CPA to ensure that all the data they need for tax filing and strategic planning is accurate, timely, and actionable. If you don’t already have a CPA, we can connect you with trusted outsourced CPA partners in Central Iowa.

When Your Business Might Need a Controller Instead of Just a Bookkeeper

Here are signs you may need a controller:

• Your business has grown in annual revenue

• You need more advanced financial reporting and forecasting

• Cash flow issues are becoming a recurring problem

• You’re planning for expansion, acquisition, or significant investment

• You want better internal controls and fraud prevention

• Your CPA keeps asking for reports you don’t currently track

Why Many Businesses Choose an Outsourced Controller

Hiring a full-time controller in Des Moines can cost $90,000–$120,000+ per year, plus benefits. For many small to mid-sized businesses, that’s not realistic.

That’s why outsourced controller services are becoming the go-to solution. With an outsourced controller, you get:

• Expertise on demand without the full-time salary

• Customizable engagement—monthly, quarterly, or project-based

• Integration with your existing bookkeeping so nothing falls through the cracks

• Local insight—understanding the Central Iowa business environment

• Scalable support as your business grows

CustomOne CFO & Controllers: Your Local Financial Partner

We’ve been serving Des Moines and Central Iowa since 2004, offering:

• Bookkeeping Des Moines – Accurate, timely transaction management

• Outsourced CPAs – Ensuring your taxes and compliance are handled efficiently

• Controller services – Delivering the financial oversight and insight your business needs to grow

• Fractional CFO services – Strategic, big-picture financial leadership without the full-time cost

Voted Best Accounting Firm – Des Moines People’s Choice
Listed in the 2025 Des Moines Business Record Book of Lists for Outsourced Accounting & CFO Services

How to Decide Between a Bookkeeper, Controller, or Both

Choose a Bookkeeper If:

• You need basic transaction management

• You have simple financial reporting needs

• You’re just starting out or operating at a smaller scale

Choose a Controller If:

• You need deeper financial analysis and strategy

• You want to improve cash flow, margins, and forecasting

• You’re growing quickly or preparing for big changes

Choose Both + an Outsourced CFO If:

• You want a fully integrated financial management team without building one in-house

The Bottom Line

Every successful business in Central Iowa needs accurate financial data—but the right level of financial expertise depends on your stage of growth.

If you’ve been relying on bookkeeping alone but are ready for more strategic guidance, it may be time to explore outsourced controller services. Whether you’re searching “need controller Des Moines”, “outsourced CPA”, or “bookkeeping Des Moines”, CustomOne CFO & Controllers has the experience, local insight, and award-winning team to support your business at every stage.

Let’s start the conversation: Contact us today to learn how we can tailor bookkeeping, controller, and CFO solutions for your business.

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