Director of Finance & Accounting, Pre-Opening - St. Regis

Job description

Job Summary

As the strategic financial business leader of The St. Regis London, you will play a critical role in shaping the financial success of this iconic property's launch and long-term performance. This role is responsible for developing and executing financial strategies that align with the brand’s luxury positioning and operational goals. You will lead the finance function with a focus on maximizing return on investment, ensuring robust financial controls, and supporting the delivery of exceptional guest and associate experiences.

You will partner closely with the General Manager and Executive Committee to drive business planning, financial forecasting, and operational decision-making. This is a unique opportunity to influence the financial architecture of a landmark hotel from the ground up.

Candidate Profile

Education & Experience

·  Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related discipline; minimum 3 years of progressive experience in finance and accounting or a related professional area.
·  OR Master’s degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related discipline; minimum 1 year of relevant experience.
·  Pre-opening or luxury hospitality experience is a strong advantage.

Core Responsibilities Strategic Planning & Financial Leadership

·  Develops and implements financial strategies to drive profitability and operational efficiency.
·  Leads the creation of annual budgets, forecasts, and long-range financial plans.
·  Analyzes financial data, market trends, and business performance to inform strategic decisions.
·  Identifies opportunities for revenue enhancement and cost optimization.
·  Ensures alignment of financial planning with brand standards and ownership expectations.

Operational Finance & Risk Management

·  Establishes and maintains a strong internal control environment to safeguard assets and ensure compliance.
·  Oversees financial reporting, tax compliance, and audit processes.
·  Implements systems and controls to manage business risks and ensure financial integrity.
·  Ensures accurate and timely financial reporting, including P&L statements, balance sheets, and cash flow analysis.

Leadership & Team Development

·  Leads, motivates, and develops a high-performing finance team.
·  Communicates strategic goals and priorities clearly to team members and stakeholders.
·  Conducts performance reviews and supports career development through coaching and training.
·  Promotes a culture of accountability, integrity, and continuous improvement.

Stakeholder Engagement

·  Acts as a key advisor to the General Manager and Executive Committee on financial matters.
·  Builds strong relationships with ownership groups, corporate offices, and external auditors.
·  Communicates financial concepts clearly and persuasively to non-financial stakeholders.
·  Manages owner relations and ensures alignment with financial and operational priorities.

Pre-Opening Focus

·  Leads all financial aspects of the hotel’s pre-opening phase, including budgeting, procurement oversight, and systems implementation.
·  Partners with project teams to ensure timely and cost-effective execution of pre-opening activities.
·  Establishes financial infrastructure and reporting systems in preparation for opening.

Finance Goals & Compliance

·  Ensures accurate documentation of profits and losses.
·  Monitors tax compliance and ensures timely submissions.
·  Supports achievement of departmental and property-wide performance goals.
·  Oversees purchasing processes and ensures alignment with financial policies.
·  Ensures compliance with Marriott International standards, local regulations, and contractual obligations.

Human Resources & Talent Management

·  Ensures fair and consistent administration of property policies.
·  Oversees onboarding, orientation, and training of new finance team members.
·  Develops individual development plans to support team growth and succession planning.
·  Participates in recruitment and hiring processes as needed.

At Marriott International, we are dedicated to being an equal opportunity employer, welcoming all and providing access to opportunity. We actively foster an environment where the unique backgrounds of our associates are valued and celebrated. Our greatest strength lies in the rich blend of culture, talent, and experiences of our associates. We are committed to non-discrimination on any protected basis, including disability, veteran status, or other basis protected by applicable law.

Combining timeless glamour with a vanguard spirit, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts is committed to delivering exquisite experiences at more than 50 luxury hotels and resorts in the best addresses around the world. Beginning with the debut of The St. Regis hotel in New York by John Jacob Astor IV at the dawn of the twentieth century, the brand has remained committed to an uncompromising level of bespoke and anticipatory service for all of its guests, delivered flawlessly by a team of gracious hosts that combine classic sophistication and modern sensibility, as well as our signature Butler Service. We invite you to explore careers at St. Regis. In joining St. Regis, you join a portfolio of brands with Marriott International. Be where you can do your best work,​ begin  your purpose,  belong  to an amazing global​ team, and  become  the best version of you.