Controller

Controller Robert Half - 3.9 Des Moines, IA Job Details $125,000 - $140,000 a year 3 days ago Benefits Disability insurance Dental insurance 401(k) Vision insurance Qualifications CPA Accounting and finance experience Stakeholder relationship building Full Job Description Robert Half is partnering with a respected academic institution in Des Moines to identify an experienced Controller who will provide financial leadership and operational oversight in a dynamic environment. This key role is responsible for guiding core accounting functions, payroll, student accounts, and financial reporting, while helping ensure strong budgeting practices, fiscal stewardship, and effective internal controls across the institution. The ideal candidate will bring strong technical accounting expertise, sound judgment, and a collaborative leadership style, along with the ability to navigate the complexity of an academic setting while maintaining high standards of accuracy, service, and compliance. Key Responsibilities Lead the day-to-day operations of accounting, payroll, and student accounts to ensure accurate, timely, and efficient financial processes. Oversee the preparation of financial statements, internal reporting, and analysis to support institutional planning and leadership decision-making. Manage accounts payable, purchasing coordination, and transaction review to maintain strong internal controls and regulatory compliance. Direct billing and collections activity related to tuition, fees, and other student account balances. Supervise payroll processing for faculty, staff, and student employees, ensuring accuracy and adherence to applicable policies and regulations. Partner with finance leadership and campus stakeholders on budgeting, cash management, and endowment-related financial administration. Provide leadership, coaching, and clear performance expectations for staff, fostering a communicative, supportive, and service-oriented team culture. Evaluate workflows, processes, and documentation to improve consistency, accuracy, and operational effectiveness across assigned functions. Preferred Background Demonstrated experience in accounting leadership, ideally in higher education, nonprofit, or other complex institutional environments. Strong knowledge of financial reporting, payroll administration, internal controls, and budget support. Proven ability to build relationships across departments and communicate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders. A hands-on, collaborative management approach with a commitment to continuous improvement and service excellence. Minimum of 5 years of experience in controllership, accounting leadership, or a closely related finance role. Demonstrated background in financial reporting, general accounting, and internal control oversight. Experience managing payroll, accounts payable, or student billing functions within a multi-department organization. Ability to review documentation carefully and maintain organized financial records and supporting materials. Strong analytical, communication, and team leadership skills. Proficiency in handling detailed financial documents, compiling information, and ensuring accuracy in record management. Bachelor's degree in accounting or finance CPA required Experience in education, nonprofit, or similarly regulated environments 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 roberthalf.gobenefits.net for more information. © 2025 Robert Half. An Equal Opportunity Employer. M/F/Disability/Veterans. By clicking "," you're agreeing to Robert Half's Terms of Use and Privacy Notice .