Cherry Bekaert LLP

Interim Controller (Strong Leader / Hands-On)

Cherry Bekaert LLP$156K — $166K *
Finance & Insurance
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Proven experience as a Controller or senior finance leader
  • Strong technical expertise in GAAP, financial reporting, and audit management
  • Ability to operate as both a strategic leader and hands-on contributor
  • Experience in retail or high-volume transaction environments, with POS exposure being a plus
  • Nonprofit experience is not required
  • Familiarity with Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a plus but not mandatory

Responsibilities

  • Lead all accounting and finance functions including general ledger and financial reporting
  • Ensure timely preparation of financial statements compliant with GAAP standards
  • Oversee the month-end close process, maintaining efficiency and audit readiness
  • Manage cash flow with oversight of accounts receivable and daily cash monitoring
  • Direct the annual audit process and ensure clean results with external auditors
  • Establish internal controls and ensure regulatory compliance
  • Develop and enhance accounting policies and reporting tools for leadership
  • Partner with senior leadership to provide insights on financial performance

Benefits

  • Hybrid working model with flexibility for onsite presence
  • Immediate start with opportunity for transitioning to full-time role
  • Engagement with a complex organization that values strategic oversight
  • Opportunity to lead and develop diverse finance and accounting teams
  • Be part of a hands-on leadership role in a dynamic environment
Full Job Description
Title: Interim Controller (Strong Leader / Hands-On)

Location: Hybrid - Washington, DC (NoMa) | 2 days onsite (up to 3 during peak periods)
Duration: 4+ months (with potential to convert to full-time)
Pay Rate: $75-$80/hour

Overview:
We are seeking a highly capable Interim Controller to step into a leadership role overseeing accounting and finance operations for a complex organization. This is an opportunity for a hands-on leader who can both drive strategy and execute tactically. While the organization operates in a nonprofit environment, candidates with commercial/retail experience (including POS environments) are strongly encouraged to apply.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead all accounting and finance functions, including general ledger, financial reporting, and budgeting/forecasting
  • Ensure timely and accurate preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP
  • Oversee month-end close, ensuring efficiency and audit readiness
  • Manage cash flow, including AR aging, collections oversight, and daily cash monitoring
  • Direct annual audit processes and coordinate with external auditors to achieve clean audit results
  • Establish and maintain strong internal controls and compliance with regulatory requirements
  • Develop and enhance accounting policies, procedures, and reporting tools for leadership
  • Ensure financial systems effectively support reporting, including retail sales and grant compliance where applicable
  • Partner with senior leadership to provide insights on financial performance and cost center management

Team Leadership:
  • Manage and develop accounting, finance, and purchasing teams
  • Provide leadership across a team including Controller, Senior Analyst, and Purchasing Manager, with additional staff reporting into the Controller
  • Foster a collaborative, accountable, and high-performing team environment

Qualifications:
  • Proven experience as a Controller or senior accounting/finance leader
  • Strong technical accounting expertise (GAAP, financial reporting, audit management)
  • Demonstrated ability to operate as both a strategic leader and hands-on contributor
  • Experience in retail or high-volume transaction environments (POS exposure a plus)
  • Nonprofit experience is not required
  • Experience with Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a plus (not required)

Additional Details:
  • Immediate interim need with potential for full-time conversion
  • Ideal for candidates who thrive in fast-paced environments and can quickly assess, stabilize, and improve financial operations


#IND4

About Cherry Bekaert LLP

Cherry Bekaert is a public accounting firm that provides a wide range of services to clients in various industries. The company offers audit, tax, and advisory services to help clients achieve their business goals. Cherry Bekaert has a team of over 1,200 professionals who are committed to delivering high-quality work and exceptional customer service. The company has offices in several states across the US and serves clients in both the public and private sectors.
Learn more about Cherry Bekaert LLP
Size
1,200 employees
Industry
5 Year Trend
+10%
Revenue
$220 million

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