Finance Director

The City of South Milwaukee, WI (population 20,191), is seeking a knowledgeable and collaborative professional to serve as its next Finance Director. The ideal candidate will bring Wisconsin local government finance experience, a strong understanding of municipal budgeting, levy limits, and regulatory requirements, and a record of stable professional tenure. The successful candidate will be a trusted financial leader known for integrity, reliability, sound judgment, and effective collaboration.

Located along the Lake Michigan shoreline just south of downtown Milwaukee, the City of South Milwaukee is a vibrant community where history, natural beauty, and a strong sense of community come together. With its welcoming neighborhoods, active downtown, beautiful parks, and convenient access to the greater Milwaukee area, South Milwaukee offers the advantages of a connected metropolitan community while maintaining the character and relationships of a close-knit city.

Principal duties include various complex and responsible finance, accounting, budgetary, and administrative duties requiring a thorough knowledge of finance and municipal accounting and organizational procedures and precedents in compliance with municipal code requirements and State of Wisconsin statutes. The Finance Director is responsible for the administration and maintenance of detailed financial records and transactions. Under general supervision of the City Administrator, the Finance Director is responsible for directing all operations of the Finance Office and serves as the department head, overseeing two (2) FTE employees and one (1) part-time employee.

Additionally, the Finance Director serves as the Deputy City Administrator, supporting, assisting, and advising the City Administrator on a wide variety of city issues and policies and providing positive leadership within the City in support of its goals, mission, and vision.

Education and Experience

A Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, Business, Public Administration, or a closely related field from an accredited college or university is required (Master’s preferred), along with five years of progressively responsible work in municipal finance setting. Candidates should hold a WI Certified Municipal Clerk/Treasurer designation or the ability to obtain. Experience with general ledger, contract finance administration, payables, debt and TIF district administration, budgeting, cost accounting, receivables, and employee management. Any equivalent combination of education and experience that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities will be considered.

Compensation and Benefits

Starting salary range: $107,800 - $120,000 DOQ, plus excellent benefits package which includes participation in the Wisconsin Retirement System, exceptional insurance benefits including health, dental, vision, and life insurance and a generous paid time off program.

To Apply:

Visit the community website at www.southmilwaukee.gov/ for additional information. The full South Milwaukee Position Profile can be found on the PAA website at www.public-administration.com.

Interested candidates should submit a single PDF containing a cover letter, résumé, and five professional references to Public Administration Associates, LLC, Attn: Sue McDade, Vice President, at [email protected].

First review of applications will take place on Friday, October 30, 2026. The final deadline for applications is November 8, 2026

Confidentiality can be requested but cannot be guaranteed for finalists.

Pay: $107,800.00 - $120,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Paid time off
• Professional development assistance
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person