Area Director of Finance

Job SummaryThe Area Director of Finance will oversee the financial operations for The LaSalle Chicago, the Canopy & Hilton Garden Inn hotels, located in the downtown Chicago area. They will be responsible for all activities related to budgeting, forecasting, profit and loss reporting, and account reconciliation for operating and balance sheet accounts. This role directly oversees all accounting activities related to income auditing, cashiering accounts payable, processing accounts receivable collection, tax compliance, payroll, and month-end processing. This position is a high-profile Executive Committee position.

ResponsibilitiesQUALIFICATIONS:

Possess a 4-year Bachelor Degree in Finance/Accounting and a minimum of 5 years of experience in a finance leadership position or a 5+ year history of progressive career growth in hotel finance (or in a similar industry)

Experience with budgeting, forecasting, profit and loss reporting, and balancing ledgers for operating and balance sheet accounts

Aptitude for performing numerical analysis of data and formulating conclusions and/or solutions

Ability to use logic to define a problem, collect information, establish facts, draw valid conclusions, interpret information, and deal with abstract variables for unique or unfamiliar situations

Proven leadership and coaching skills with a track record of developing a highly motivated and cross-trained group of progressive accounting professionals

Ability to clearly and concisely present technical subjects

Must possess strong oral and written communication skills and the ability to conduct effective group meetings and presentations

Ability to comprehend and use technical or professional language, either written or spoken, to communicate complex ideas

Superior Computer skills: Microsoft Office, POS/PMS systems, and the ability to create, maintain, and analyze data in Excel spreadsheets

Ability to work a varied schedule including days, evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended hours based on business needs

Supervises and leads the professional development of a dynamic finance team

Demonstrate Leadership and Strategic Decision Making

Thinks creatively and practically to develop, execute, and implement business strategies

Utilizes effective interpersonal and communication skills to lead, influence, and drive the performance of others

Leads by example by demonstrating honesty and integrity in all business and personnel decisions

Leverages strong financial and operational leadership skills to guide the executive team, influence property focus areas, and lead own department

Communicates complex financial concepts and expectations in a clear manner that drives results

Possesses behavioral styles that convey confidence and command respect from others

Maintains peak performance levels under pressure and in a dynamic work environment

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Verifies the accuracy and timeliness of all finance functions: daily and month-end reporting, payroll processing, income audit, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and cash and credit card management

Completes comprehensive month-end close to include preparing journal entries and accruals, completing cost of sales entries, reconciling balance sheet accounts, ensuring proper tax reporting, and analyzing profit performance

Develop and Achieve Financial Goals

Creates the annual operating plan that is aligned with the company's strategic direction

Provides analytical tools and support to department heads during budget preparation

Leads the sales and operations team in creating accurate monthly forecasts that allow the team to react to changes in business levels

Implements and upholds business practices that positively support our obsession with having a sales-driven culture

Ensures monthly P&Ls reflect accurate revenues, expenses, and cost of sales calculations

Analyzes daily and monthly variances between actual, forecasted, and budgeted performance

Advises GM and executive team on existing and upcoming financial and operational issues

Analyzes financial data and operational and market trends to identify opportunities for improvement

Leads the property in developing and maintaining a strong labor culture that maximizes productivity performance

Facilitates monthly P&L reviews to uncover challenges, opportunities, and trends

Manages capital expense budget and reconciles expenditures monthly

Ensures strong accounting and operational controls to safeguard assets and maximize profits

Oversees internal and city audit processes

Manages the accurate collection, posting, and reconciliation of occupancy taxes, sales taxes, and transient marketing district (TMD) fees

Reconciles balance sheet accounts monthly and ensures totals are supported by appropriate documentation

Provides continuous direction to and education of the operational team in all areas related to finance, financial reports, internal controls, labor management, payroll, month-end reconciliation, P&L performance, etc.

Fosters strong professional relationships with the entire management group by providing direct counsel and feedback that positively impacts the performance of the business and sharpens the financial acumen of the team

Conducts ongoing coaching and annual reviews to influence positive team development

Cross trains team members to support successful department operations

Sets high standards for performance and holds the team accountable for results

Supports and brings to life the property's core values and service culture

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