Area Director of Finance | Columbia Hospitality

Columbia Hospitality•Seattle, WA

About The Position

Columbia Hospitality is seeking an Area Director of Finance to oversee financial reporting, audits, and compliance, ensuring accuracy and transparency. This role involves managing accounting processes, cash flow, and cost controls to maintain fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency. The ideal candidate will have a strong command of accounting principles (GAAP/IFRS), risk management expertise, and the ability to coach department heads on financial matters. Columbia Hospitality is a people-first organization committed to creating exceptional experiences and fostering a values-based culture.

Requirements

Bachelor’s Degree (BA) in Business or Accounting from a four-year college or university, or four years related experience and/or training.
Strong command of accounting principles: GAAP/IFRS knowledge is a must for financial compliance.
Risk management expertise: Skilled in assessing and mitigating financial risks, including market trends, competition, and economic factors.
Knowledge of pertinent federal, state, and county tax laws and filings.
Well organized, detail oriented with excellent communication skills.
Ability to work under time pressure and extensive hours.
Have a professional, friendly, and enthusiastic demeanor.
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, current on technology expertise and know-how.
Superior Excel skills required.
Ability to demonstrate flexibility and be able to perform multiple tasks and work in stressful situations.

Nice To Haves

Master's degree and/or CPA is a plus.
Five years of accounting experience in the Hospitality Industry and/or CHAE certification is desired.
Experience using different accounting software a plus.

Responsibilities

Oversee financial reporting, audits, and compliance to ensure accuracy and transparency.
Manage accounting processes, cash flow, and cost controls, ensuring fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency.
Maintain balance sheet analysis with full supporting detail on a monthly basis.
Supervise the preparation of annual audits and tax returns with the external audit team on an annual basis.
Ensure integrity and efficiency of computerized data processing functions.
Ensure all financial reports, budgets, forecasts, and other information required by the company are accurately compiled and submitted within the specified time limits, identifying variances, and making recommendations for improvements as appropriate.
Ensure adequate controls are installed and maintained for the protection of the property's assets against loss or misappropriation.
Coach department heads regarding their financial responsibilities and effective financial management techniques including how to read, interpret and run financial reports available for their level.