Job Summary
Hospitality Hire, in partnership with The Drostdy Hotel, managed by Valor Hospitality Partners, is recruiting a highly experienced Hotel Financial Controller to lead and oversee the full financial function of this iconic luxury boutique hotel in Graaff-Reinet, Eastern Cape.
The Drostdy Hotel blends historic heritage with contemporary boutique luxury, delivering personalised guest experiences and exceptional service. Managed by Valor Hospitality Partners, a global leader in reimagined luxury hospitality, the hotel offers an exceptional opportunity for a skilled finance professional to contribute to the strategic and operational success of one of South Africa’s most historic hotels.
About the Role: Hotel Financial Controller – Graaff-Reinet
We are seeking a detail-driven, strategic, and highly organised Hotel Financial Controller with strong hospitality finance experience, ideally from boutique, luxury, or high-end hotel environments. The ideal candidate must demonstrate exceptional financial oversight, analytical ability, leadership capability, and a commitment to supporting operational excellence across the property.
Location: Graaff-Reinet, Eastern Cape
Eligibility: Candidates must be legally allowed to work in South Africa. No work permits available.
Key Responsibilities
Financial Leadership & Strategy
- Lead the full financial function of the hotel in line with Valor Hospitality standards
- Prepare annual budgets, monthly forecasts, and rolling financial plans
- Provide strategic financial insights to the General Manager and corporate office
- Ensure accurate and timely financial reporting, analysis, and variance commentary
- Drive cost control, margin optimisation, and financial efficiency across all departments
Accounting & Controls
- Oversee daily accounting functions including AP, AR, banking, reconciliations, and payroll support
- Maintain accurate general ledger accounts and financial records
- Implement and uphold internal control procedures and audit compliance
- Manage balance sheet reconciliations and ensure financial accuracy at all times
- Monitor cash flow, working capital, and expenditure visibility
Revenue, Stock & Procurement Oversight
- Ensure accurate revenue capture, billing, and night audit processes
- Support revenue management with forecasting, rate strategy analysis, and yield opportunities
- Monitor stock control, cost of sales, procurement processes, and supplier payments
- Implement systems to prevent loss, wastage, or revenue leakage
Operational Collaboration
- Work closely with HODs to align financial performance with operational priorities
- Assist teams in understanding budgets, cost drivers, and productivity targets
- Provide training, tools, and guidance to improve financial awareness across departments
- Support the General Manager with business analysis and decision-making
Compliance & Governance
- Ensure compliance with South African financial legislation, labour regulations, tax requirements, and company policies
- Manage preparation for internal and external audits
- Maintain strict adherence to financial standards, ethics, and reporting guidelines
Qualifications & Experience Required
- Bachelor's degree or diploma in Accounting, Finance, or equivalent (essential)
- Minimum 5 years’ experience as a Hotel Financial Controller / Finance Manager within a hotel environment (boutique / luxury experience advantageous)
- Strong understanding of hospitality financial operations, controls, and compliance
- Proficiency in hotel and accounting systems such as OPERA, Micros, SUN, Pastel, or similar
- Exceptional analytical skills, attention to detail, and problem-solving ability
- Ability to lead a small finance team and collaborate effectively with operational leaders
- Able to work flexible hours, including month-end close and peak operational periods
What You Can Expect
- Competitive salary package
- Opportunity to work with Valor Hospitality Partners, a leading global management group
- Beautiful, historic working environment in South Africa’s 4th-oldest town
- Professional growth within an international hotel portfolio
- Complimentary meals on duty and uniform provided
If you do not receive feedback within two weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.