In a recent US survey, 77% of respondents said their companies' accountants are working with other departments throughout the organization to uncover financial irregularities and prevent corporate scandals like those that have made headlines in recent years.

The survey, developed by Robert Half Management Resources, includes responses from a sample of 150 executives from the 1,000 largest US companies. One hundred thirty-four public companies and 16 privately held firms participated.

Executives were asked, "How have recent corporate accounting scandals impacted how closely your accounting department works with other departments in your organization on issues relating to corporate governance?" Their responses:

"Sound financial reporting is dependent on receiving accurate information from every operating unit of a business, whether the company is public or private," said Paul McDonald, executive director of Robert Half Management Resources. "All managers should play a role in ensuring their departments' financial activities and reports are accurate and support the firm's ability to comply with the Sarbanes-Oxley Act and related legislation."

McDonald added, "Accounting professionals are providing direction and assistance to executives throughout the organization on compliance issues related to corporate governance. Firms where this interdepartmental collaboration is absent are at greater risk of errors in reporting."

Related link:
Robert Half Management Resources http://www.roberthalfmr.com