Controller, Finance & Banking, Accounting Manager

Description We are looking for a Controller to lead core accounting operations for an education organization in McLean, Virginia. This role is responsible for producing reliable financial information, strengthening internal controls, and supporting sound fiscal decision-making across the institution. The ideal candidate brings strong technical accounting knowledge, leadership capability, and the ability to improve processes while maintaining accuracy and compliance.

Responsibilities:

- Lead day-to-day accounting activities and guide the department in delivering accurate, timely financial reporting.

- Design, refine, and monitor accounting procedures and internal control practices to support compliance with established policies.

- Direct key operational areas such as student billing and accounts payable to ensure efficient and well-controlled transaction processing.

- Evaluate workflows, identify inefficiencies, and introduce automation or other improvements that enhance productivity and accuracy.

- Assist with recruiting, onboarding, and developing accounting team members to build a strong and effective department.

- Administer the chart of accounts across multiple fund categories and ensure financial activity is recorded in the appropriate classifications.

- Review revenue, expenses, journal entries, and gift transactions for proper coding, approval, and monthly reconciliation with related records.

- Partner with Human Resources to record payroll and benefits accurately, maintain general ledger integrity, and reconcile subsidiary ledgers and fixed asset activity.

- Prepare investment-related entries, track depreciation and project-based asset records, and complete required state and regulatory filings.

- Support finance committee and board reporting needs, maintain official finance records, communicate accounting policies across the organization, and stay current on nonprofit accounting requirements. Requirements

- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.

- Demonstrated experience leading accounting operations, preferably in an education or nonprofit environment.

- Strong knowledge of general ledger management, reconciliations, internal controls, and financial reporting.

- Experience overseeing accounts payable, billing functions, payroll-related accounting, and fixed asset records.

- Ability to manage fund accounting and ensure accurate classification of restricted and unrestricted financial activity.

- Familiarity with regulatory filings, compliance obligations, and accepted accounting practices relevant to nonprofit organizations.

- Proven leadership skills with the ability to train staff, communicate policies clearly, and collaborate across departments.

- Strong attention to detail, analytical ability, and process improvement skills, including identifying opportunities for automation.

Please reach out to Mahil Santram via Linked In if interested in this Controller role.

Robert Half is the world's first and largest specialized talent solutions firm that connects highly qualified job seekers to opportunities at great companies. We offer contract, temporary and permanent placement solutions for finance and accounting, technology, marketing and creative, legal, and administrative and customer support roles.

Robert Half works to put you in the best position to succeed. We provide access to top jobs, competitive compensation and benefits, and free online training. Stay on top of every opportunity - whenever you choose - even on the go. Download the Robert Half app ()  and get 1-tap apply, notifications of AI-matched jobs, and much more.

All applicants applying for U.S. job openings must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Benefits are available to contract/temporary professionals, including medical, vision, dental, and life and disability insurance. Hired contract/temporary professionals are also eligible to enroll in our company 401(k) plan. Visit  for more information.

© 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "Apply Now," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use ()  and Privacy Notice () .