Assistant Controller

Robert Half Management Resources is currently looking for an experienced Assistant Controller to support a long-term interim engagement for a higher education client in the Dayton, Ohio area. This Long-term Contract opportunity is ideal for a hands-on finance specialist who can guide daily accounting operations, support accurate and timely financial reporting, and partner closely with institutional stakeholders. The interim Asst. Controller will manage a small accounting team executing month-end close, posting and reviewing journal entries, and performing and reviewing account reconciliations. Prior experience in accounting within higher education is a plus. Role is primarily onsite, with 1 day hybrid flexibility. This role is expected to have a duration of 1-2 years in length.

Responsibilities:

• Lead day-to-day accounting activities, including preparing journal entries, reviewing complex reconciliations, and addressing account variances with accuracy and urgency.

• Oversee the monthly close cycle to ensure deadlines are met, balances are supported, and financial records remain complete and reliable.

• Direct the preparation and consolidation of financial statements, including supporting schedules and footnote disclosures aligned with organizational standards.

• Coordinate annual audit readiness by organizing account analyses, responding to auditor requests, and helping maintain well-documented financial records.

• Supervise and mentor a team of staff accountants, providing clear direction, workload oversight, and ongoing coaching in a largely onsite setting.

• Work closely with finance personnel and campus administrators to investigate accounting questions, resolve issues, and improve communication across departments.

• Support the Assistant VP & Controller with operational accounting needs, executive reporting requests, and other finance initiatives as assigned.

• Contribute accounting expertise to broader departmental projects, including activities connected to the institution’s enterprise system transition when needed.

• 7+ years of progressive accounting experience, including substantial responsibility for general ledger activity, close processes, and financial reporting.
• Demonstrated background in fund accounting is required; nonprofit or higher education fund accounting experience is highly valued.
• Proven ability to prepare journal entries, perform detailed account and balance sheet reconciliations, and analyze financial results.
• Prior experience leading or supervising accounting staff, with the ability to provide guidance, accountability, and team support.
• Advanced Microsoft Excel skills are required for reporting, analysis, and reconciliation work.
• Strong understanding of financial statement preparation and month-end close procedures is essential.
• Experience in higher education and familiarity with Ellucian Banner are preferred but not mandatory.
• Exposure to Cognos reporting tools is a plus.