Director of Finance

Company Description

Why work for Accor?

We are far more than a worldwide leader. We welcome you as you are and you can find a job and brand that matches your personality. We support you to grow and learn every day, making sure that work brings purpose to your life, so that during your journey with us, you can continue to explore Accor's limitless possibilities.

By joining Accor, every chapter of your story is yours to write and together we can imagine tomorrow's hospitality.

Raffles the Palm Dubai is on the western crescent of Palm Jumeirah, the world's largest manmade island and archipelago. This luxurious five-star hotel with 381 spacious rooms, suites and villas is embellished with hand-crafted Italian touches and offset by carefully selected amenities to complete the atmosphere of elegance. Guests can enjoy panoramic views, a private beach, state of the art entertainment and recreational facilities, including specialist boutiques, a VIP movie theatre, signature and private restaurants complemented by exquisite banqueting and conference spaces.

When visiting Raffles, guests will discover the individual personality and story offered by the hotel. At the essence of every Raffles is the delivery of thoughtful, personal and discreet service to well-travelled guests. Raffles Hotels & Resorts is an award-winning, luxury international hotel company with a history dating back to 1887 with the opening of Raffles Hotel, Singapore. The portfolio currently comprises eleven luxurious properties, from secluded resorts to city hotels in key locations around the world.

Job Description

- The Director of Finance will assist in preparing, in conjunction with the General Manager and other department heads, the annual budget, capital budgets and the rolling forecast. The Director of Finance will establish the annual budget preparation procedures and guidelines.
- To provide accurate and complete financial and management reports on a timely and accurate basis to hotel management, corporate office and owners in accordance with the company and ownership reporting requirements and policy. In addition, the Director of Finance is responsible for reporting accurately and timely, the actual results as compared to budget/forecast results. He/she is to maintain adequate records to reflect the comparison of the actual expenditures for furniture, equipment and operating equipment to the budgeted amounts.
- Responsible for the analysis and interpretation of the financial data and communicating this in a comprehensible form, of meaningful variations in the operations.
- To assist other department heads in the development and implementation of "corrective action plans" on internal and or external audit and operational reports.
- To assist in the development and implementation of benchmarking techniques that will enable the hotel to enhance revenues while improving productivity and cost efficiencies. To seek, identify and implement through out the hotel best practices that will serve to enhance revenues, guest service and improve cost and productivity efficiencies.
- Ensure cash flow is adequate to meet the needs of the operation. Approve all cash disbursements and ensure that all disbursements are properly documented and executed. Approve all rebates, adjustments and allowances in accordance with company policy.
- The position is directly accountable to manage the hotel accounting department, information and internal control systems and hotel finances in accordance with all policy and procedures. This position is accountable for the development, documentation, and support of Financial Polices and Operational Procedures to include performance monitoring as it relates to the hotels.
- To protect the owners and the management company's interest in the hotel assets and operations.
- To participate in the development, maintenance and adherence to a single chart of accounts, payroll and expense dictionary, and the function of accounts in order that the hotels financial and statistical data is accurately and consistently recorded and reported.
- Has a fiduciary responsibility to the Company and/or Owners for ensuring the hotels are reporting in compliance with the policies, the Uniform Chart Of Accounts and hotel management or other contractual arrangements with respect to accounting matters.
- The analysis of the balance sheet accounts, on a selected basis and the preparation of the monthly internal benchmarking and operational performance analysis reports.
- Accountable for the development, documentation and maintenance, within hotels, to ensure compliance with the requirements of internal/standard controls.
- Manage all facets of the capital process. Ensure all hotels establish and maintain the tracking of fixed assets sub-ledgers and depreciation.
- All laws and fiscal regulations of the area location, which effect financial matters of the hotel, will be complied with. This includes seeing that proper permits and licenses are obtained for such things as liquor licenses, sellers permit, business licenses, etc.
- The safe keeping of all lease and contracts and any other legal records and documents, which may affect the financial status of the hotel. Such documents are to be listed and keep current on the Critical Date List.
- To ensure that hotel accounting department is operating efficiently and at an optimum staffing levels, so that there are succession plans in place for the top three positions.
- To recommend and assist in the design, implementation, and use of methods and procedures that improve the accuracy of working schedules, labor standards, forecast, plans to assist operational staff. Monitor on an ongoing basis the accuracy and recommend correct measurements as necessary.
- Developing, implementing and monitoring credit and collection procedures and guidelines pursuant to "adopted" corporate credit policies.
- The Director of Finance will be a highly motivated team player with strong accounting, communication, and analytical skills. Strong systems background needed.
- Performs other similar or related duties as necessary.
- The Director of Finance's dual reporting responsibilities could potentially give rise to a situation where there is a conflict between the Director of Finance's responsibilities. Such a situation can usually be resolved by referring to the Company's Policy and Procedures Manuals. In the event that the manuals are not specific or applicable, and the General Manager and Director of Finance are not able to come to a mutually satisfactory agreement, the Executive Director, Operations Accounting should be consulted.
- The corporate Executive Director, Operations Accounting, along with the hotel's General Manager, control the selection, appointment, termination, promotion or transfer, as well as the remuneration of the Director of Finance in each hotel.
- Changes in a Director of Finance's remuneration or other terms of employment are also made between the General Manager and the Executive Director, Operations Accounting. No changes in remuneration or other terms of employment can be made without the written approval of the Executive Director, Operations Accounting.

P & L Accuracy / Timelines

- Costs are properly matched to revenues and recorded in the proper accounts.
- Month-end information is transmitted to Corporate and Regional offices in a timely and accurate basis. Based on the detailed instructions sent out on verification of totals from the Financials System and the Reporting System.
- Preliminary statements are delivered to Executive Committee and Department heads within 2 business days of month-end, and final statements within 3 business days.
- Monthly commentary of results is clear and concise with major issues identified.
- Commentaries are submitted timely with action plans to address deficiencies and a look towards the future.

Forecasting

- Accuracy is a high priority for all managers, and they are held accountable. The range is not more than a 3-5% change from the last forecast.
- Meetings are held monthly to critique past forecast accuracy and prepare current forecast.
- Forecast is reviews with management monthly and provided to corporate recipients on a timely basis.

Executive Committee Preparation

- Participates in, and contributes to all material property decisions, providing financial leadership.
- Consults with, and supports activities of GM and members of Executive Committee.
- The financial policy and perspective is shared and understood by employees as noted in all training materials.

Development and Training

- Succession Planning efforts are part of everyday activities. Those colleagues with growth capabilities are identified and put on specific training program.
- Identifies and ensures that Accounting management receives training to develop them for future promotion.
- Accounting Staff receive at least 40 hours of training per year. Examples would include cross training, Sales and use Tax, Excel, etc.
- Open lines of communication are maintained to reduce turnover and grievances.

Owner Relations

- Management Agreement terms, priorities, performance tests and incentive fees distribution requirements are completely understood and managed.
- Owner's monthly reporting package is sent by terms outlined in the Hotel Management Agreement.
- Responses meet agreed-on deadlines.
- Confidentiality of proprietary information is maintained.
- Responses are complete and accurate.
- Responses are professional in format, content and presentation.

Hotel Management Agreement Charges and/or Fees

- All Company related recoveries are accurately calculated and booked in accordance with the Chart of Accounts.
- Payment is made to the Company within the contract terms, 30 days.

Balance Sheet Reconciliation

- Accounts are properly recorded in the chart of accounts and reviewed for material changes quarterly on the commentary report.
- Accounts are reconciled by the 20th day of the next month following the close of month-end.
- Account balances are documented by physical counts, invoice, backup and signed contracts.
- Reconciling items are immediately investigated and properly cleared in the following month.
- On a semi-annual basis, formal reconciliation's are reviewed with the Regional Director of Finance and Executive Director, Operations Accounting and no material observations are surfaced.

Conserve Cash

- Working capital is managed, needs are minimized and standards are met.
- Specifically this is to be accomplished by the monthly cash flow report and the accuracy of forecasting the balance sheet in detail.
- Segregation of duties is maintained for non-compatible cash handling functions.
- Produce and track debt test calculations and Mortgage requirements.

System of Internal Control

- Sound cash, disbursement and payroll controls are in place.
- Control systems are monitored and audited on a regular basis, as documented by Audit Services, to measure compliance with internal controls.
- Workflow schedules are reviewed and updated quarterly.
- Audit exceptions are documented and corrective action taken within 30 days.
- Controls are explained and understood by all employees, as part of their job description that the employee has signed off on.
- Property managers take ownership of the control system within their departments, as documented by the audit services team.
- Segregation of duties for non-compatible functions is enforced.

Capital Expenditures

- Policy on Capital is understood and followed.
- Capital needs (current or future) are anticipated and properly planned and completed.
- AFE's are prepared and approvals obtained before any capital funds are committed or spent.
- Capital expenditures are properly accounted and reporting system is up-to-date, with the cash flow projection and used as a management tool.

Analysis

- Operating results are critiques each month on a timely basis, with follow up actions to major issues identified, by the 10th business day.
- ROI capital projects are analysed prior to committing funds.

Accounts Receivable

- Billings are accurate and sent out within 8 days past the departure date.
- Reviews the status of bills and monitors collection efforts to ensure that funds are collected within a 30-day period.
- Receivables are maintained as defined in the Policy and Procedures Manual.
- Write-offs are reviewed, authorized and signed by GM and appropriate Corporate approval levels in accordance with SOP.
- Review Guest Ledger to ensure all items are current and in-house. Ensure that all checked-out accounts are transferred to the city ledger within 3 days.

Tax/Legal/Insurance Compliance

- Tax rates used are current and accurate.
- Proper amounts are collected/accrued by the 20th.
- Taxes are paid on a timely basis.
- Ensuring that all applicable permit and licenses are in place.
- Maintain Hotel Insurance requirements.
- Require that one person on the accounting staff takes a tax refresher course yearly to ensure that all tax requirements are fulfilled.

Policy Administration

- A thorough knowledge of understanding and proper application of policies and procedures.
- A high level of integrity (Personnel, Control, Accounting and Policy) is maintained.
- Operating /business issues are reviewed and resolved with General Manager.
- Issues surrounding Accounting, Policy or Controls are reviewed with GM, Regional Director of Finance and /or Executive Director, Operations Accounting.
- Open lines of communication exist and are used by Director of Finance & Accounting on questionable issues with Area Director, Operations Accounting and Corporate Accounting office.

Staffing

The Director of Finance is responsible for all employees under his/her jurisdiction. This responsibility includes hiring, terminating, recommending salary and wage rates (including increases), and monitoring hours of duty and behaviour for all accounting staff members.

The accounting staff includes, without exception, the following personnel:
- Accounting staff personnel
- Food & Beverage Control personnel
- Purchasing/Receiving and Storerooms personnel
- Systems personnel

The Director of Finance should be both concerned and involved with the day-to-day and overall hotel operation. The Director of Finance should also maintain lateral relationships with other executive committee members and interact with the hotel department heads and managers. In short the Director of Finance can be of more value to the Company if he/she is generally concerned with all aspects of the operation than if he/she confines himself/herself to the accounting and control function only.

- Maintaining all of the hotel's accounting records in the manner prescribed by corporate office to comply with legislative requirements and contractual obligations. Similarly, all reports and financial statements will be prepared on a timely basis in accordance with instructions prescribed by corporate office.
- Complying with the Company's Finance and Accounting Policy and Procedures Manual and any memorandums issued by the corporate Finance and Accounting Department.
- Complying with all of the area's laws and fiscal regulations which affect the hotel's financial matters, including ensuring that proper permits and licenses are obtained for such things as importation, currency transfers, liquor licenses, etc. If compliance with local laws and regulations results in non-compliance with corporate office's requirements, the Executive Director, Operations Accounting should be advised so that proper action may be taken.
- Ensuring the safety of all documents which may affect the financial status of the hotel including leases, contracts, and any other legal records and documents. Such documents are to be maintained as prescribed in Policy No. 11-04.
- Ensuring that local tax matters, including both income and other taxes, are properly handled.
- Approving all cash disbursements and ensuring that all disbursements are properly documented and executed.
- Approving all rebates, adjustments, or allowances in accordance with Company policy.
- Ensuring accurate documentation of the value of inventories on hand, including food, beverage, and operating supplies. The Director of Finance must also control the distribution of materials and supplies to departments.
- Making sure that all of the operating equipment inventories are physically counted, valuated, and controlled.
- Administering the hotel's insurance program in conjunction with the corporate office. Generally speaking, all blanket insurance policy placements and renewals will be administered from corporate office, while the Director of Finance is charged with the responsibility for all local policies and any special insurance requirements for his/her specific hotel.
- Acting as one of the hotel's signing authorities, and as such, signing all cheques and other payments, purchase requisitions, purchase orders, and accounts payable vouchers.
- Ensuring that all unclaimed wages are re deposited promptly in the bank account or are otherwise treated in accordance with local regulations.
- Maintaining a close connection with the hotel's auditors, both external and internal, to ensure the objective verification of the hotel's financial affairs.
- Approving, by signing or initialing, all monthly journal entries that are posted to the General or Operating Ledger.
- Reconciling all balance sheet accounts accurately and timely by the 20th day of each month. The Director of Finance must review the hotel's balance sheet accounts reconciliations on a monthly basis to ensure that the accounts are properly reconciled. The Director of Finance must ensure that reconciling items are cleared by next month end.
- Controlling exposure to bad debt losses and ensuring timely collection of accounts receivable by maintaining procedures for credit and collection in accordance with Company policy.
- Preparing periodic requests for capital expenditures with the General Manager, in accordance with the Policy.

The Director of Finance is primarily responsible for enforcing all policies and procedures set out in the Company's Finance and Accounting Policies and Procedures Manual. In addition, the Director of Finance is responsible for the following:

- In addition to the preparation of all financial statements, accounting and statistical reports, and any other special report that may be required by corporate office or the General Manager, the Director of Finance is responsible for interpreting said reports and then communicating the results with the General Manager and relevant department heads.
- The Director of Finance will assist in preparing the annual budget and the monthly revised forecasts-in conjunction with the General Manager and other department heads-in the formats established by corporate office. The General Manager is responsible for the budgets and forecasts, while the Director of Finance is responsible for accurately compiling the figures and for ensuring that the General Manager is fully cognizant of all factors that formulate the budget.
- In addition to the budget preparation, the Director of Finance is responsible for reporting the actual results as compared to the budgeted/forecasted results. He/she is also responsible for maintaining adequate records to reflect the comparison of the actual expenditures for furniture and equipment and operating equipment to the budgeted amounts.
- The Director of Finance is jointly responsible, along with the General Manager, for co-ordinating approved expenditures programs with forecasted cash flow. Procedures governing capital expenditures are specified in the Policy.
- The Director of Finance is responsible for preparing an accurate actual monthly cash flow statement and a reasonable estimate of anticipated cash needs or distributions each month.
- The Director of Finance has unlimited rights of study and complete access to all facts and figures concerning the operation of the hotel, and as such, he/she may go into any department, ask any questions, and conduct any studies that are deemed necessary. It is, therefore, the Director of Finance's responsibility and obligation to exercise reasonable tact and to refrain from giving orders to any employee not within his/her jurisdiction.

Requirements: