Chief Financial Officer

Milwaukee, WI

Lauber Community Partners is conducting an exclusive search for a Chief Financial Officer on behalf of Milwaukee Repertory Theater (Milwaukee Rep). Milwaukee Rep is one of the nation’s premier regional theaters, celebrated for its artistic excellence, community impact, and bold vision for the future. With multiple performance venues and a transformative campus redevelopment, the organization is entering an exciting new chapter of growth. This is a unique leadership opportunity within a dynamic cultural institution where mission and performance go hand in hand.

Milwaukee-based executive search firm, Lauber Community Partners, specializes in connecting high-impact leaders with mission-driven organizations, and we are proud to partner on this important leadership search.

The Opportunity

The Chief Financial Officer is a key member of the executive leadership team, responsible for strengthening Milwaukee Rep’s financial foundation in support of its artistic and strategic goals. Reporting to the Executive Director, the CFO serves as both a strategic advisor and hands-on leader—guiding financial planning, ensuring operational excellence, and enabling data-informed decision-making.

Key Responsibilities

Financial Leadership

Lead financial strategy, including long-range planning, budgeting, forecasting, and analysis
Oversee monthly and annual close processes in accordance with GAAP
Manage cash flow, internal controls, and financial systems
Ensure audit readiness, 990 filings, and regulatory compliance
Oversee core financial operations (AP, billing, reconciliations, grant accounting)
Support financial planning and reporting for capital campaigns

Organizational Leadership

Partner with executive leadership to advance strategic priorities
Serve as a key liaison to the Board, Finance Committee, and Investment Committee
Lead and develop the Finance team
Drive process improvements to enhance efficiency and effectiveness
Represent the organization with key stakeholders and community partners

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree required and experience in a senior financial management role, or the equivalent combination of education and experience is required
Significant financial leadership experience, ideally in a nonprofit or cultural organization
Strong expertise in budgeting, forecasting, reporting, audits, and grant management
Strong experience with nonprofit accounting, restricted funds, and capital campaign reporting
Proficiency in financial systems (e.g., Abila MIP, Prophix; Tessitura, Paylocity, and Sage Intacct, a plus)
Experience creating efficiencies through artificial intelligence within previous financial leadership roles, preferred
Demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and access

Key Attributes

Strategic, analytical, self-starter that is solutions-oriented
Hands-on leader with strong accountability and attention to detail
Trusted advisor and effective communicator
Highly organized with strong prioritization and execution skills
Collaborative leader who develops teams and drives results

Why Work Here

Milwaukee Rep offers the opportunity to contribute to a nationally recognized arts organization at a pivotal moment of growth and transformation. As a member of the executive team, you will help shape the future of a cultural institution deeply rooted in community impact, artistic excellence, and innovation.

In addition to meaningful, mission-driven work, employees enjoy a range of unique fringe benefits, including:

Complimentary tickets to Milwaukee Rep productions
Free gym access through FitPro Milwaukee
Discounts at arts organizations throughout the Milwaukee community

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to support the well-being of our employees and their families, including:

Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
Long-Term Disability (LTD) coverage
Health Reimbursement Arrangement (HRA)
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
403(b) retirement plan
Paid Parental Medical Leave (PML)
Paid Parental Leave (PPL)

Lauber Business Partners (Fractional/Interim Leadership, Consulting, Executive Search) Jobs

Chief Financial Officer