Controller

Reports To: Vice President of Finance

Location: St. Florian Campus, Business Office

Classification: Full-Time, Exempt

Organizational Overview: Notre Dame School of Milwaukee is a Catholic School founded by the School Sisters of Notre Dame in Milwaukee, WI. Notre Dame School of Milwaukee is a Grade K3-8 Catholic school currently serving over 750 students across three campuses including an all-boys middle school, an all-girls middle school, a co-ed primary school, and an Early Childhood Education program. To learn more please visit our website at www.notredamke.org. 

Mission Statement: Notre Dame School of Milwaukee, a Catholic school sponsored by the School Sisters of Notre Dame, challenges our students to reach their full potential as individuals, empowering them to direct their God-given gifts toward transforming their community.

Vision Statement: With deep faith and courage, Notre Dame School of Milwaukee boldly addresses the urgent, critical needs of the community by providing an education focused on student and school growth through quality and innovation. 

Position Summary

The Controller is responsible for managing the day-to-day accounting operations of the school, ensuring accurate financial records, and preparing timely financial reports. This role leads the monthly close process and coordinates the annual audit. This role coordinates and submits monthly financial statements to the VP of Finance for review and approval. The Controller operates in an execution-focused capacity.

Key Responsibilities

Accounting Operations

• Record all financial transactions not related NDSM’s operating expenses in the accounting system, ensuring proper coding and classification
• Fixed asset management
• New Market Tax Credit recurring entries
• Review NDSM’s operating expense transactions
• Oversee accounts receivable, cash receipts, and general accounting functions
• Maintain accurate tracking of restricted and unrestricted funds

Financial Reporting & Close Process

• Prepare monthly financial statements and supporting schedules for review and approval by the Vice President of Finance
• Maintain the general ledger and ensure all transactions are accurately recorded
• Perform monthly bank reconciliations 
• Coordinate monthly pledge and contribution reconciliations between accounting and donor systems
• Lead the monthly and year-end close processes

Audit & Compliance

• Coordinate the annual financial audit, including preparation of audit schedules and supporting documentation
• Liaison with external auditors during fieldwork
• Ensure compliance with GAAP and nonprofit accounting standards

Systems & Process Management

• Maintain the integrity and accuracy of the accounting system
• Ensure consistent application of accounting procedures and documentation standards
• Identify and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and accuracy

Collaboration & Support

• Provide financial reports and supporting documentation as requested by the Vice President of Finance
• Assist in preparing materials for audits, Finance Committee, and Board reporting
• Respond to internal requests for financial data and transaction detail
• Special projects as assigned by leadership

Qualifications Include:

• Bachelor Degree in Accounting or related field required
• Proficient in database systems and business applications such as G-Suite and Microsoft Office, especially Microsoft Excel
• Knowledge of financial regulations and compliance
• Reliable transportation for minimal travel among three campuses
• Wisconsin resident and eligible to work in the United States without sponsorship

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience with non-profits
• 3  years of experience in a related field is a plus
• Sage Intacct experience is an advantage
• General knowledge of accounting systems

Work Conditions:

• Business office setting with business hours
• Must be able to sit for long periods of time
• The ability to lift 30 lbs.

Required Competencies:

• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills
• Professional writing skills
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to multitask and prioritize activities
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, working across all levels of the organization