Key Benefits and Top Providers of Government Contracting Controller Services

Government contracting can be complex and highly regulated, requiring strict financial management and compliance. As a result, many government contractors outsource their controller services to seasoned professionals who specialize in this field. 

This allows business owners to focus on their core business operations while ensuring that all financial aspects of their government contracts are handled accurately and efficiently. 

In this article, we will discuss the key benefits of outsourced government contracting controller services and provide information on some of the top providers in the market. 

By understanding these benefits and learning about reputable providers, you can make an informed decision when considering outsourced controller services for your government contracts.

What Are Government Contracting Controller Services?

Controllers manage the financial affairs of a company or organization. For government contractors, this includes handling all financial transactions related to their contracts with various agencies. 

This can include:

• Budgeting
• Forecasting
• Invoicing
• Ensuring compliance with complex regulations

Outsourced government contracting controller services refer to hiring a third-party provider to handle these financial tasks on behalf of the contractor. These providers are typically experienced in working with government contracts and thoroughly understand the regulatory requirements involved.

Each contractor has different requirements, but some common tasks that are typically handled by outsourced controllers include:

• Budgeting and forecasting for government contracts
• Creating and submitting invoices to government agencies
• Tracking expenses related to government contracts
• Ensuring compliance with relevant regulations, such as the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) and Defense Contract Audit Agency (DCAA)
• Performing financial analysis to identify areas for cost savings or improved efficiency in contract management

Why Outsource Government Contracting Controller Services?

Evaluating the benefits of outsourcing government contracting controller services can help you determine if this is the right option for your business. Some of the key benefits include:

Cost savings

Outsourcing controller services can often be a more cost-effective option for many businesses, especially smaller ones. Hiring and training an in-house controller can be expensive, whereas outsourcing allows you to pay for only the services you need.

Access to specialized expertise

Government contracting requires specific expertise in financial management and compliance. By outsourcing to a provider specializing in this field, you can ensure that your contracts are handled accurately and efficiently.

Improved compliance and risk management

Outsourced government contracting controller services can help you monitor regulatory changes and ensure compliance with complex requirements. This reduces the risk of penalties or legal issues that could arise from noncompliance.

Enhanced efficiency and focus on core activities

By outsourcing controller services, you can free up your internal resources and focus on your core activities. This allows for better efficiency and productivity within your company. 

Additionally, experienced third-party providers can often handle financial operations more efficiently and accurately than internal staff.

Streamlined financial processes

Outsourced controller services can help streamline financial processes, reducing the risk of errors and delays. This is especially beneficial for government contractors who may have multiple contracts with various agencies, each with unique requirements.

Accurate and timely reporting

Government contracts often require detailed and timely financial reporting. By outsourcing controller services, you can ensure that all financial reports are accurate and submitted on time to avoid any penalties or delays in payments.

Better resource allocation

Handling government contracts can be a time-consuming process, requiring significant resources from a company’s finance or accounting department. By outsourcing controller services, you can free up your internal resources to focus on other critical tasks.

Scalability and flexibility

Outsourcing allows you to scale your controller services as needed without the added costs of hiring and training additional staff. This is especially beneficial for companies with fluctuating government contract workloads.

Top 5 Providers of Outsourced Government Contracting Controller Services

Without any further ado, here is our list (in no particular order) of top outsourced government accounting and recruitment agencies that offer controller services:

1. Near

Near is a leading recruitment firm that specializes in sourcing top talent from Latin America (LatAm). We work closely with employers to understand their needs and provide tailored solutions to ensure financial management and compliance.

Our pool of experienced controllers and accountants understands the complexities and regulations involved in government contracting. By working with one of our pre-vetted professionals, you can rest assured that your contracts are in capable hands, allowing you to focus on growing your business.

2. Cherry Bekaert

Nationwide firm Cherry Bekaert provides advisory, assurance, tax, and strategic alliance solutions to a wide range of industries. It has been featured in Forbes, INSIDE Public Accounting, and Accounting Today.

Cherry Bekaert offers CFO and controller services, project reporting, month-end close, revenue recognition, financial reporting, billing/payment systems, and more.

3. Stambaugh Ness

Stambaugh Ness is a professional services firm headquartered in York, Pennsylvania. Its team of accounting specialists works with architectural and engineering government contractors, providing services like accounting oversight, payroll, expense management, and year-end close.

4. Warren Averett

Accounting and advisory firm Warren Averett has been helping clients since 1972. In 2024, it was named Best of Accounting in Client Satisfaction, an Accounting Today Top 100 Firm, and a USA Today Most Recommended Tax and Accounting Firm.

Its outsourced accounting service offerings for government contractors include CFO or controllership services, consulting, data analytics, and contract administration support.

5. Wall Einhorn & Chernitzer (WEC)

WEC certified public accountants (CPAs) and advisors is a Norfolk, Virginia-based accounting firm with over 30 years of experience. Its operational services include outsourced CFO services, controller services, or outsourced accounting for government contractors, which it offers through e:countable, one of its other brands.

Key Considerations When Choosing an Outsourcing Partner

When considering outsourcing government contracting controller services, there are a few key factors that you should keep in mind. These include:

Experience with government contracts

The provider should have a proven track record of working with government contracts and a thorough understanding of the relevant regulations and compliance requirements. 

They should also be familiar with the specific government agency or agencies that you will be working with.

Compliance and security measures

Government contracts often involve handling sensitive information, so it is crucial to ensure that the outsourcing partner has strict compliance and security measures in place. These should include measures to protect against fraud, data breaches, and other potential risks.

Cost and value for money

Outsourcing controller services can be a cost-effective option for government contractors, eliminating the need to hire and train in-house staff. 

However, you should still consider the overall value for money that an outsourcing partner can provide. This includes their level of expertise, quality of services, and any additional support or resources they offer.

Reputation and client reviews

It is important to research the reputation of potential outsourcing partners before making a decision. Look for client reviews and testimonials, as well as any industry awards or recognitions they may have received. 

This can give you insight into their level of expertise and the quality of services they provide.

Steps To Successfully Outsource Government Contracting Controller Services

Outsourcing government contracting controller services can bring numerous benefits, but it is essential to take certain steps to ensure a successful partnership. Here are some key considerations for employers before outsourcing:

1. Assess your needs and objectives

Before seeking out a provider, it is crucial to assess your business goals and needs. This will help you determine the scope of services required and the level of expertise needed from the provider.

2. Research and shortlist potential providers

Research potential providers and create a shortlist based on their experience, reputation, and expertise. It is also essential to consider the provider’s location and whether they have experience working with companies in your industry.

3. Evaluate proposals and conduct interviews

Request proposals from the shortlisted providers and evaluate them based on their ability to meet your needs and objectives. Conduct interviews with the top candidates to get a better understanding of their experience, approach, and communication style.

4. Implement a transition plan and onboarding process

Once you’ve selected a provider, it is crucial to have a detailed transition plan and onboarding process in place. This will ensure a smooth transfer of responsibilities and help the provider to understand your company’s needs and requirements.

5. Monitor performance and maintain communication

Regularly monitor the performance of your outsourced controller services provider and maintain open communication to address any issues or concerns that may arise. This will help ensure the partnership remains effective and beneficial for both parties.

Final Thoughts

Outsourcing government contracting controller services can provide numerous benefits for employers, including scalability, compliance, efficiency, and high-level expertise. 

By partnering with a reputable provider in this field, you can ensure that your financial management and compliance needs are met while focusing on your core competencies. 

At Near, we understand the importance of finding qualified professionals to handle sensitive tasks such as government contract financial management. That’s why we specialize in recruiting highly skilled candidates from LatAm who can fill your finance roles remotely. 

Don’t wait any longer. Book a free consultation to find out how you can take the first step toward improving your government contracting processes through outsourced controller services.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do outsourced controllers cost?

The cost of an outsourced controller depends on their experience, demand, and where they are from. For example, the average annual salary of a US-based controller is $130,000. In LatAm, however, it is around $42,000 for a controller with the same level of skill and experience. 

You can learn more about salary and cost differences between outsourcing countries and roles in our salary guide.

It’s also important to account for indirect cost savings—when outsourcing controllers remotely, you don’t need to pay for overhead expenses like employee benefits, in-house accounting software, or office space.

What is the difference between a remote controller and an outsourced controller?

An outsourced controller typically refers to a third-party provider of financial controller services, often located in a different country or region, that handles specific tasks or services.

A remote controller, on the other hand, refers to any controller who performs their tasks from a remote location. They could be a direct employee of your company, an independent contractor, or a member of a remote agency.

In other words, both outsourced and internal controllers can work remotely, but a controller who is your employee isn’t being outsourced.

Are controllers in demand?

Yes, controllers are in high demand, especially in the government contracting industry. As government contracts become more complex and regulations continue to expand, the need for experienced financial professionals who specialize in this field is growing.