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.<br><br>Responsibilities:<br>• Lead day-to-day accounting activities and guide the department in delivering accurate, timely financial reporting.<br>• Design, refine, and monitor accounting procedures and internal control practices to support compliance with established policies.<br>• Direct key operational areas such as student billing and accounts payable to ensure efficient and well-controlled transaction processing.<br>• Evaluate workflows, identify inefficiencies, and introduce automation or other improvements that enhance productivity and accuracy.<br>• Assist with recruiting, onboarding, and developing accounting team members to build a strong and effective department.<br>• Administer the chart of accounts across multiple fund categories and ensure financial activity is recorded in the appropriate classifications.<br>• Review revenue, expenses, journal entries, and gift transactions for proper coding, approval, and monthly reconciliation with related records.<br>• Partner with Human Resources to record payroll and benefits accurately, maintain general ledger integrity, and reconcile subsidiary ledgers and fixed asset activity.<br>• Prepare investment-related entries, track depreciation and project-based asset records, and complete required state and regulatory filings.<br>• Support finance committee and board reporting needs, maintain official finance records, communicate accounting policies across the organization, and stay current on nonprofit accounting requirements.

<p>• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field.</p><p>• Demonstrated experience leading accounting operations, preferably in an education or nonprofit environment.</p><p>• Strong knowledge of general ledger management, reconciliations, internal controls, and financial reporting.</p><p>• Experience overseeing accounts payable, billing functions, payroll-related accounting, and fixed asset records.</p><p>• Ability to manage fund accounting and ensure accurate classification of restricted and unrestricted financial activity.</p><p>• Familiarity with regulatory filings, compliance obligations, and accepted accounting practices relevant to nonprofit organizations.</p><p>• Proven leadership skills with the ability to train staff, communicate policies clearly, and collaborate across departments.</p><p>• Strong attention to detail, analytical ability, and process improvement skills, including identifying opportunities for automation.</p><p><br></p><p>Please reach out to Mahil Santram via LinkedIn if interested in this Controller role.</p>

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