Director of Finance - Mar Monte Hotel Santa Barbara, CA

Hotel Equities•Santa Barbara, CA

32d•$145,000 - $165,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Finance is a key member of the hotel's Executive Leadership Team and is responsible for directing the financial operations of the property while providing strategic guidance to the General Manager and ownership. This position ensures the integrity of financial reporting, protects company assets, drives profitability, and maintains compliance with Hotel Equities, brand, and regulatory standards.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field required.
Minimum of five (5) years of progressive hospitality finance experience with leadership responsibilities.
Strong understanding of hotel accounting, budgeting, forecasting, internal controls, and financial analysis.
Experience with hotel financial systems and property management systems such as M3, Opera, BirchStreet, or similar platforms.
Advanced Microsoft Excel skills and proficiency with financial reporting software.
Exceptional analytical, organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
Ability to prioritize multiple responsibilities while meeting deadlines in a fast-paced hospitality environment.

Nice To Haves

CPA, CMA, or MBA preferred.
Previous experience as a Director of Finance, Assistant Director of Finance, or Hotel Controller in a full-service hotel preferred.
Strategic financial leadership and business acumen
Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
A collaborative, service-oriented leadership style
High ethical standards and attention to detail
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills
A passion for developing teams and supporting operational excellence

Responsibilities

Lead all accounting and finance operations, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll oversight, cash management, and financial reporting.
Prepare accurate and timely monthly financial statements, forecasts, budgets, and variance analyses.
Develop and manage the annual operating and capital budgets in partnership with hotel leadership.
Monitor hotel performance and recommend strategies to maximize revenue, control expenses, and improve profitability.
Ensure compliance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), internal controls, company policies, and federal, state, and local regulations.
Manage month-end and year-end close processes and coordinate internal and external audits.
Maintain effective cash management practices and oversee banking relationships.
Partner with department leaders to analyze labor, purchasing, inventory, and operational costs while identifying opportunities for improved efficiencies.
Provide financial analysis and strategic recommendations to the General Manager and ownership group.
Recruit, mentor, develop, and lead the accounting team while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Ensure compliance with Hyatt brand requirements and ownership reporting standards.