Controller

About the role

We are looking for an experienced Controller to lead the accounting operations of a mission-driven nonprofit in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This role will guide financial reporting, budgeting, compliance, and cash management while partnering with leadership to support sound financial decision-making. The ideal candidate brings strong technical accounting knowledge, leadership capability, and a commitment to accuracy, accountability, and organizational values.

Responsibilities

• Produce timely financial reports, including statements, account analysis, and other summaries that support informed business decisions.
• Coordinate with independent auditors and provide the documentation and support needed for annual audits and compliance reviews.
• Examine tax filings and related financial submissions to confirm completeness, accuracy, and adherence to applicable regulations.
• Monitor reconciliations between subsidiary records and the general ledger, and ensure outstanding balances are tracked and addressed appropriately.
• Direct the accounts receivable process by improving workflows, maintaining procedures, and strengthening collection practices.
• Manage grant accounting activities, including recordkeeping, reporting, and on-time submissions to federal and state agencies.
• Partner with department leaders and senior management to develop budgets that align financial plans with organizational priorities.
• Oversee cash flow planning, evaluate liquidity needs, and recommend investment approaches, financial policies, and internal procedures.
• Supervise key accounting functions and staff, including team members responsible for payroll, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and cash management.
• Develop accounting practices that support operational continuity, including processes related to changes in museum operations when needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from an accredited four-year college or university.
• At least five years of progressive accounting experience, ideally within a nonprofit or similarly regulated environment.
• Strong knowledge of grant accounting, general ledger activity, reconciliations, month-end close, and accounts receivable management.
• Ability to analyze complex financial information, identify issues, and reach sound conclusions independently.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare reports and present financial information to leadership and external stakeholders.
• Proficiency with spreadsheets, databases, word processing tools, and computerized accounting systems.
• Demonstrated experience leading staff and overseeing day-to-day accounting operations across payroll and payables/receivables functions.
• CPA designation preferred and a clear commitment to supporting the mission and values of a nonprofit organization.