Interim Controller 16786156

Interim Controller (Temp‑to‑Hire)
Location: Chevy Chase, MD (Onsite 5 days a week primarily and for the first few months, then may flex to 1-2 days hybrid once established)
Engagement Type: Temp‑to‑Hire
Compensation: Market hourly rate ($180,000–$185,000 upon conversion – flexibility for strong candidates)
Industry: Government Contracting

Software: JAMIS preferred, Costpoint as an alternate will be fine

Cherry Bekaert is partnered with a government contracting organization that is seeking an Interim Controller to join its team on a temp‑to‑hire basis, with the intent to convert this role to permanent employment following a successful transition period.

This role supports a privately owned government contractor with approximately $140M in annual revenue and 650 employees. The Interim Controller will provide immediate operational leadership across the accounting function while being assessed for long‑term fit for a permanent Controller role. The position is highly visible and works directly with senior leadership.

Engagement Overview
This is designed to address an immediate need while providing both the organization and the candidate an opportunity to assess long‑term alignment. The Interim Controller will lead day‑to‑day accounting operations, ensure continuity and compliance, and bring structure and stability to the finance organization during the transition period.

The role is expected to be onsite five days per week initially and for the first few months, with the potential for 1-2 days hybrid flexibility over time.

Major Duties & Responsibilities:

• Assume oversight for all accounting functions including general ledger, accounts payable, payroll, and financial reporting.
• Lead and supervise an accounting team of approximately 10-12 professionals.
• Perform and review monthly balance sheet account analysis. 
• Perform budget vs. actual analysis on a monthly basis.
• Prepare various cash, AP discount, and capitalization reports. 
• Review and approve accounts payable such as verifying that payables comply with company policy. 
• Review and approve applications for new credit arrangements. 
• File necessary returns to obtain federal fuel credits on a quarterly basis. 
• Process necessary journal entries on a monthly basis and complete monthly used tax returns.
• Oversee the annual US and International audits; the US and international tax returns; quarterly state tax payments; annual state reports, and preparation of necessary forms and documents.
• Assist with the preparation of the Branch Financial Analysis. 
• Perform internal audits of the various branch operations and report results to the CFO. 
• Prepare vendor analysis reports and communicate findings to the CFO. 
• Communicate with company’s bank representatives regarding the initiation and monitoring of sweep accounts and the renewal of line of credit accounts. 
• Monitor cash balance on a daily basis and notify CFO when line of credit is low.
• Directly supervise payroll and accounts payable employees and carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization’s policies and applicable laws. 
• Supervise/handle all international payroll/correspondence related to our UK, German, and Italy etc.
• Improve processes and internal controls in all areas managed.
• Recommend policies and procedures relating to financial and business practices to the company.
• Ensure that accounting and tax laws are followed to satisfy state and federal regulatory requirements.

Qualifications
Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
• 10 years of progressive accounting or finance experience with increasing leadership responsibility
• Prior experience in a government contracting environment
• Experience with government‑focused accounting systems such as JAMIS or Deltek Costpoint
• Proven ability to step into interim leadership roles and quickly take ownership
• Strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills
• U.S. Citizenship required

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing teams
• Exposure to international payroll or global operations

Salary : $140