Director of Finance

This role sits within the finance leadership team of a luxury hospitality property and carries full accountability for the financial management and control environment of the operation. The position reports directly to the Regional Vice President and Managing Director and oversees all accounting and finance functions across the property.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the hotel's financial planning and budgeting process in alignment with the property's strategic objectives, and monitor budget performance on an ongoing basis to identify variances and cost-saving opportunities.
• Prepare and present accurate, timely financial reports including income statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements, and other key financial metrics to senior management and ownership.
• Analyse financial data to provide performance insights and deliver strategic recommendations to the executive team and ownership.
• Collaborate with the revenue management team to support room rate-setting and pricing strategy, and monitor revenue streams across rooms, food and beverage, and ancillary services.
• Implement and oversee cost control measures that manage expenditure efficiently without compromising service quality or guest satisfaction.
• Review and approve expenditures, ensuring compliance with budgetary guidelines and procurement procedures.
• Oversee payroll management and resource allocation across the finance division, applying principles of multi-skilling and flexible workforce planning.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable financial regulations, accounting standards, and local tax laws.
• Coordinate with external auditors during the annual audit process.
• Oversee cash flow management, maintain adequate cash reserves, and implement cash handling procedures to minimise fraud and theft risk.
• Support month-end close processes, including journal preparation, general ledger accuracy, and timely production of financial statements.
• Ensure invoices, petty cash, and remittances are processed and recorded correctly.
• Implement and monitor internal controls to safeguard assets, mitigate financial risk, and detect discrepancies or irregularities.
• Manage and control the owner's monthly reporting package in accordance with the Hotel Management Agreement (HMA), and maintain transparent communication with ownership on financial performance, profitability, and investment matters.
• Understand and manage the terms, performance tests, and incentive fee distribution requirements set out in the Management Agreement.
• Participate in and contribute to material property decisions, providing financial leadership at the executive committee level.
• Lead, supervise, and develop the finance team, including accountants and financial analysts, providing guidance, training, and performance support.
• Ensure all financial reports are submitted accurately and on time, and maintain organised historical records with appropriate storage protocols.
• Maintain confidentiality of proprietary information at all times.
  
  

Skills & Experience

• Degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field, supported by a professional accounting qualification.
• Minimum five years of experience in a senior or executive finance role within a hotel environment.
• Demonstrated leadership capability with experience managing and motivating finance teams.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with ownership, senior management, and cross-functional departments.
• Strong analytical skills with close attention to detail and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving financial issues.
• Proven ability to assess financial risk and implement appropriate mitigation strategies.
• Experience managing owner relationships and reporting obligations under a Hotel Management Agreement is advantageous.
  
  

About Senna

Senna is a careers platform for finance candidates who want better opportunities and more strategic career guidance. We help professionals clarify their ambitions, target the right roles, and access expert support tailored to their goals across the MENA finance market. Senna is built to help candidates move with stronger direction, sharper positioning, and greater momentum. For more information, visit joinsenna.com.

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