Controller is going on leave for 3 months and I am supposed to fill in. How much of a raise should I ask for?

Navigating Temporary Leadership: How to Justify a Salary Increase During Your Acting Role

When an opportunity arises to step into a leadership role temporarily, it can often lead to questions about compensation. Recently, I found myself in a situation where the controller of our company is set to take a three-month leave of absence, leaving me responsible for their duties. Given the significant gap between my current salary and that of the controller, I am contemplating how to approach the conversation about a salary adjustment during this interim period.

To provide some context, I currently earn approximately $90,000 annually, while the controller’s salary stands at around $150,000. The owner has expressed reluctance to bring in a contract or temporary CPA, as hiring externally would incur costs of $130 to $150 per hour.

This scenario puts me in a unique position. To ensure that I am compensated fairly for the additional responsibilities I will take on, I am considering how much of a raise to request.

Factors to Consider

1. Scope of Responsibilities: First and foremost, I should evaluate the specific tasks and duties I will be handling in the controller’s absence. If the responsibilities significantly exceed my current role, this justifies a more substantial raise.

2. Market Comparisons: It may be beneficial to research the going rates for interim controllers or similar positions within the industry. Understanding market standards can provide a strong foundation for my request.

3. Owner’s Perspective: Since the owner is looking to avoid hiring additional help, I plan to frame my request around the cost savings they will achieve by promoting from within, rather than paying an external contractor.

Establishing a Reasonable Raise

After careful consideration of these factors, I will formulate a salary increase request that reflects the added value I will provide in this temporary capacity. A raise in the range of 10% to 15% may be reasonable, especially given the substantial gap between my current salary and that of the controller.

Preparing for the Conversation

When discussing this with the owner, I intend to:

• Clearly articulate the additional duties I will be assuming and how they align with the company’s objectives.
• Present a well-researched rationale for my requested raise, demonstrating its significance in the context of overall cost savings for the company.
• Be open to negotiation, allowing for flexibility to reach a mutually beneficial agreement.

In summary, stepping into a temporary leadership position is an excellent opportunity for personal and professional growth. By approaching