Accounting Specialist

Description

POSITION SUMMARY

Milwaukee Repertory Theater is seeking a detail-oriented and systems-minded Accounting Specialist. The ideal candidate will combine strong attention to detail with strategic thinking, excel at problem-solving and process improvement, and thrive as a versatile team player in a fast-paced arts environment. This role offers significant growth opportunities for an accounting professional passionate about supporting the theater's mission while building efficient systems and communicating effectively across all departments.

Major Duties and Responsibilities Include:

Financial Operations & Reporting

• Maintain accurate and timely general ledger entries, reconciliations, and month-end      close processes.
• Prepare and analyze financial statements, budget reports, and variance analyses.
• Support annual audit processes.

Problem-Solving & Analysis

• Investigate and resolve accounting discrepancies promptly.
• Analyze financial data to identify trends, issues, and opportunities.
• Support management with ad-hoc financial analysis and special projects.
• Collaborate with department heads on budget planning and financial reporting.

Systems & Process Improvement

• Utilize accounting software and technology to optimize operations.
• Develop and maintain internal controls and documentation.
• Identify opportunities to streamline accounting processes and implement efficiency improvements.
• Create and update financial procedures and workflows.

Collaboration & Communication

• Communicate financial information clearly to stakeholders on box office, development, production, and administrative teams.
• Support grant reporting and compliance requirements.
• Assist with payroll processing and employee financial inquiries.

Cross-Functional Support

• Serve as backup coverage for various team members during planned leaves and absences.
• Provide flexible support across different departments as needed.
• Adapt quickly to temporary assignments and learn new processes efficiently.

Requirements

REQUIREMENTS OF THE POSITION

Experience & Education

• Bachelor's degree, preferably in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• 2-5 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably in nonprofit or entertainment industry.
• CPA certification preferred but not required.

Technical Skills

• Proficiency in accounting software (Milwaukee Rep uses Abila MIP).
• Advanced Excel skills with experience in financial modeling and analysis are      essential.
• Familiarity with nonprofit accounting principles and fund accounting preferred.
• Experience with payroll systems and accounts payable software.

Core Competencies

• Exceptional attention to detail with ability to maintain accuracy under tight deadlines.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Systems thinking with drive to improve processes and build efficiency.
• Self-motivated with ability to work independently and manage priorities.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to collaborate across departments.
• Curiosity and eagerness to learn all aspects of theater financial operations.
• Flexibility and adaptability to take on diverse responsibilities and provide backup support.

Physical Demands

This role includes working at a computer for several hours daily, maintaining prolonged static postures, performing repetitive hand and wrist movements, sustaining visual focus on screens, and enduring extended periods of sitting. The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.