Pick a clean template that highlights numbers and controls. For a Finance Controller, use a reverse-chronological or hybrid layout so you show progressive responsibility and measurable impact.
Keep your resume to one page if you have under 10-15 years in finance. Use two pages only if you have many high-relevance roles and certifications to list.
Choose an ATS-friendly font like Calibri or Arial. Use 10-12pt for body and 14-16pt for section headers so hiring managers can scan fast.
Give each section breathing room. Use consistent margins and 1.0–1.15 line spacing so numbers and tables stay readable.
Use clear headings like: Summary, Experience, Leadership, Technical Skills, Certifications, Education. That helps both people and ATS parse your file.
Avoid heavy graphics, multiple columns, and embedded tables. They often break parsing and hide your achievements.
Quantify every achievement. Show percent savings, audit reductions, process cycle times, and budget sizes you managed.
Proofread dates, totals, and verbs. Use action verbs like "led," "reconciled," "streamlined," and "implemented." Keep verbs consistent in tense for current and past roles.
Common mistakes to avoid: inconsistent date formats, vague bullet points, and long paragraphs. Also avoid logos, headers with images, and strange fonts.
Final tip: save as a simple PDF generated from Word or Google Docs. That preserves layout and keeps ATS parsing accurate.