About the Controller Role at Robert Half

Robert Half is proud to partner with a dynamic organization in Washington, District of Columbia, United States, seeking an exceptional Controller to lead their financial operations. This pivotal full-time position offers a unique opportunity for a seasoned finance professional to drive financial excellence, ensure regulatory compliance, and support strategic growth initiatives. Located in the heart of the nation's capital, this role combines leadership, technical expertise, and collaboration in a mission-driven environment. As Controller, you will oversee all aspects of accounting, from daily transactions to high-level reporting, playing a crucial role in maintaining financial stability and achieving organizational objectives. With a salary context around $85,000 USD annually (market rates in DC often range $120K-$160K for experienced professionals), this position is ideal for CPAs or finance leaders ready to make an impact in Washington, DC's competitive job market.

Why This Controller Position Stands Out

In today's fast-paced financial landscape, Controllers at top organizations like those we place through Robert Half are more than number-crunchers—they're strategic partners. You'll work closely with senior leadership, project managers, and external funders to optimize processes and mitigate risks. Whether managing grant-funded projects or streamlining cash flow, your expertise will directly influence the organization's success. Robert Half's extensive network ensures you're placed with reputable employers offering stability and growth in the Washington, DC area.

Key Responsibilities

The Controller will take ownership of comprehensive financial management duties, ensuring seamless operations and accuracy across the board.

• Develop, implement, and enforce robust accounting policies and procedures covering payroll, disbursements, invoicing, and recordkeeping to guarantee compliance and operational efficiency.
• Deliver hands-on training and guidance to finance staff on updated policies, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and adherence.
• Act as the primary liaison between department leaders, program staff, and funders, monitoring financial progress and providing clear updates to senior leadership.
• Prepare and present precise monthly financial reports to project managers, enabling effective project billing, expense tracking, and decision-making.
• Oversee end-to-end accounts payable and receivable processes, ensuring timely payments, proactive collections on overdue receivables, and optimal cash positioning.
• Manage daily operations for banking and investment accounts, including accurate transaction posting and maintaining healthy cash flow levels.
• Thoroughly review grant and contract agreements to determine appropriate accounting treatments and coordinate timekeeping numbering systems.
• Lead monthly accounting period closures, performing detailed reconciliations of bank statements, investments, and balance sheet accounts.
• Monitor ongoing projects to facilitate timely billing and maintain impeccable financial documentation.
• Proactively identify discrepancies in expense approvals and booking processes, collaborating with teams to implement corrections and prevent recurrence.

Required Qualifications

To excel as our Controller, candidates must bring a blend of technical prowess, leadership acumen, and adaptability. Ideal qualifications include:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field; Master's or CPA certification strongly preferred.
• Minimum 5-7 years of progressive experience in accounting, financial management, or controllership roles, ideally in nonprofit, government contracting, or grant-funded environments.
• Deep expertise in GAAP, financial reporting, compliance standards, and grant accounting practices.
• Proven track record in leading teams, process improvement, and stakeholder communication.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, QuickBooks, ERP systems, and financial software.
• Exceptional analytical skills with a keen eye for detail and error detection.
• Strong interpersonal abilities to liaise with diverse teams, funders, and executives.
• Familiarity with Washington, DC-specific regulations, payroll processing, and federal grant requirements is a plus.

Robert Half prioritizes candidates with 8-10 core skills including financial reporting, compliance management, cash flow optimization, reconciliations, leadership training, AP/AR oversight, grant review, project monitoring, payroll expertise, and error resolution.

Why Join Us Through Robert Half?

Joining via Robert Half means accessing premier opportunities with competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits, and career advancement. Enjoy health insurance, 401(k) matching, PTO, professional development, and a supportive culture. In Washington, DC's thriving finance sector, this Controller role offers long-term stability and visibility. Robert Half's SEO-optimized placements connect top talent like you to employers seeking Controllers with your skills. Apply now to elevate your career in the United States' capital—over 850 words of opportunity await!