Impact-Driven Nonprofit Controller

Connect Search, LLC; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Connect Search, LLC is partnering with a mission-driven nonprofit in Milwaukee, WI to hire a hands-on Controller who will lead accounting operations and strengthen financial processes. This role collaborates with executive leadership, develops a skilled accounting team, drives system improvements, grant accounting, budgeting, and internal controls to support programs and stakeholder reporting.

Ideal candidates will have CPA preferred, 10+ years of finance experience, and a proven record of

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting required; CPA preferred.
• 10+ years of progressive accounting and finance experience.
• 5+ years of hands-on accounting leadership experience, including managing and developing teams.
• Experience with nonprofit or government grant accounting, including cost allocations, financial reporting, and compliance.
• Strong understanding of GAAP, budgeting, financial statements, and internal controls.
• Advanced Excel skills and experience with financial modeling and ERP systems; Sage Intacct highly preferred.
• Proven ability to improve processes, implement changes, and drive operational efficiencies.
• Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Proactive, adaptable leader who enjoys being hands-on, developing teams, and collaborating across departments.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily accounting operations: GL, financial reporting, payroll, AP and AR.
• Lead, coach, and develop accounting managers and teams.
• Manage grant accounting, cost allocations, reporting, and compliance across funding sources.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, cash management, and financial modeling.
• Prepare and review financial statements, month-end and year-end close, and audit documentation.
• Partner with executive and program leadership to provide financial insights, monitor budgets, and support decision-making.
• Strengthen internal controls, accounting procedures, and financial reporting processes.
• Lead process improvements and system automation initiatives to improve accuracy and efficiency.
• Support financial presentations and reporting for executive leadership and the Board of Directors.

Skills

Financial leadership

GAAP expertise

Budgeting

Financial analysis

Internal controls

Process improvement

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting

CPA preferred

Tools

Sage Intacct

ERP systems

Job description

Connect Search, LLC is partnering with a mission-driven nonprofit in Milwaukee, WI to hire a hands-on Controller who will lead accounting operations and strengthen financial processes. This role collaborates with executive leadership, develops a skilled accounting team, drives system improvements, grant accounting, budgeting, and internal controls to support programs and stakeholder reporting.

Ideal candidates will have CPA preferred, 10+ years of finance experience, and a proven record of