Controller

Marriott International - Cambridge, MA

Full-time - Mid Level

Cambridge, MA

Accommodation

About the position

The Controller at Highgate Hotels is a pivotal role responsible for providing consistent leadership in the financial operations of the hotel. This position requires a strong focus on profitability, accurate financial reporting, and compliance with all regulatory requirements. The Controller will work closely with management to ensure that the hotel operates efficiently and effectively, safeguarding the assets of owners and investors. The role involves managing cash flow, preparing financial statements, and ensuring that all financial controls are in place and functioning properly. The Controller will also be responsible for training and developing the accounting staff, ensuring that they are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their roles effectively. In addition to financial management, the Controller will monitor hotel revenues and expenses, investigate variances, and provide practical improvement methodologies to management. This includes assisting in the capital planning process and ensuring compliance with all regulatory licenses and permits. The Controller will analyze financial data to advise management on maintaining the hotel's financial objectives and will ensure that all balance sheet accounts are reconciled in a timely manner. The role also involves hiring, training, and supervising accounting staff, maintaining compliance with Highgate Hotels' standards, and ensuring the proper utilization and maintenance of all financial equipment. The Controller will prepare various financial reports, conduct meetings to promote employee morale and productivity, and monitor compliance with report deadlines. This position is essential for maintaining the financial health of the hotel and ensuring that it meets its operational goals.

Responsibilities

• Effectively manage and communicate cash flow related issues, including preparation of cash flow statements and management of receivables and payables.
• Monitor hotel revenues and expenses, ensuring accurate recording in accordance with established guidelines.
• Investigate and critique variances to budget or prior year, offering practical improvement methodologies to management.
• Assist management with the capital planning process, including calculations of return on capital improvements and monitoring the bid process.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory licenses, permits, leases, contracts, and operational taxes.
• Analyze financial data and operations to assist management in maintaining financial objectives.
• Ensure timely reconciliation of all balance sheet accounts, including bank reconciliations.
• Establish and audit internal financial controls, including purchasing, cash handling, and payroll.
• Assist in recruiting and maintaining an inventory of financial services staff, focusing on training and development programs.
• Ensure compliance with Highgate Hotels' standards and regulations for safe and efficient hotel operations.
• Prepare financial reports in accordance with Highgate Hotels' requirements, meeting various deadlines.
• Conduct and contribute to periodic meetings to maintain favorable working relationships among employees.

Requirements

• A minimum of 6 years of related progressive experience in hotel Accounting or a related field; or a 4-year college degree with an Accounting/Finance concentration and a minimum of 2 years of related experience; or a 2-year college degree and a minimum of 4 years of related experience.
• Proficiency in Windows, company-approved spreadsheets, and word processing, as well as hotel-specific systems.
• Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing with all levels of employees and guests.
• Strong multitasking and prioritization skills to meet departmental deadlines.
• Ability to handle problems effectively, including anticipating, preventing, identifying, and solving issues.

Nice-to-haves

• Experience in a managerial role within hotel accounting or finance.
• Familiarity with hospitality industry standards and regulations.
• Advanced knowledge of financial analysis and reporting tools.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance plans.
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Opportunities for professional development and training.