Interim Controller

Interim Controller (Strong Leadership Focus) – Hybrid | Washington, DC

Cherry Bekaert Recruiting & Staffing is seeking a hands-on Interim Controller to support a dynamic, multi-entity organization based in Washington, DC . This is a high-impact leadership role ideal for a candidate who can balance strategic oversight with day-to-day execution in a fast-paced environment.

Location: Washington, DC (Hybrid – 2 days/week)
Duration: 4+ months with potential for conversion to full-time 
Hourly Rate: $75–$80/hour 

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all accounting and finance operations, including general ledger, financial reporting, and budgeting/forecasting
• Ensure timely and accurate preparation of financial statements in accordance with GAAP
• Oversee month-end close process, driving efficiency and accuracy
• Manage cash flow, including AR oversight, collections, and daily banking activity
• Direct annual audit process and coordinate with external auditors to achieve clean audit results
• Establish, maintain, and enforce strong internal controls and accounting policies
• Oversee compliance with regulatory requirements, including grant and funding restrictions where applicable
• Develop reporting tools and financial insights to support leadership decision-making
• Ensure financial systems are optimized to support retail sales activity, reporting, and forecasting needs
• Partner with executive leadership on financial strategy and operational improvements

• Manage and mentor accounting, finance, and purchasing teams
• Provide leadership across multiple functional areas, including accounting operations and budgeting/reporting
• Promote a collaborative, high-performing team environment with a focus on accountability and development

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Controller or senior accounting/finance leader
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting best practices
• Hands-on leadership style with the ability to operate both strategically and tactically
• Experience managing audits, internal controls, and compliance
• Background in retail, multi-location, or high-volume transaction environments is highly preferred (POS experience a plus)
• Nonprofit experience is not required; candidates from commercial environments are encouraged to apply
• Experience with ERP systems (Microsoft Dynamics 365 a plus, but not required)

Ideal Candidate Profile

• A proactive leader who thrives in interim environments
• Comfortable stepping into complex situations and driving immediate impact
• Strong communicator with the ability to influence and partner with executive leadership
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to process improvement and operational excellence