Company Description
Pullman Cairns International is seeking a highly capable and commercially minded Financial Controller to lead all aspects of financial management across this iconic premium hotel.
Located in the heart of Tropical North Queensland, Pullman Cairns International is a landmark five-star property positioned between the Cairns Esplanade and Reef Fleet Terminal, offering stunning Coral Sea or mountain views. Renowned for its grand architecture, spacious guest rooms, and elevated service standards, the hotel is a preferred destination for premium leisure travellers, conferences and high-end events exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest.
As part of the global Accor network and the prestigious Pullman brand, this role presents an opportunity to join the senior leadership team of a flagship property known for excellence, strong performance, and a collaborative culture. With access to Accor’s world-class systems, learning platforms, and career development opportunities, you’ll be empowered to deliver strong financial outcomes while advancing your career with one of the world’s leading hospitality groups.
**Attractive remuneration package, including a Short-Term Performance Incentive program**
***Remote/Hybrid considered for exceptional candidates***
Job Description
Reports to: General Manager
Direct Reports
1 Hotel Accountant
1 Purchasing Manager
2 Receivers
1 Accounts Payable
1 Payroll and Accounts Receivable
Job Purpose
To lead the Finance function as a true business partner to the General Manager and leadership team, ensuring strong financial stewardship, commercial performance and operational discipline across the hotel. The Financial Controller is accountable for the integrity, accuracy and timeliness of all financial reporting, while driving profitability through insight, structure and active involvement in the day-to-day operation of a complex hotel environment.
This role requires a commercially astute finance leader who can translate financial data into clear, actionable insights, maintain strong control environments and contribute meaningfully to business strategy and performance.
Commercial Leadership and Business Partnering
Operate as a key member of the hotel leadership team, supporting department heads to understand and improve their financial performance. Provide clear, practical recommendations to drive revenue growth, cost control and profit optimisation across all business units including Rooms, Food and Beverage and Conference and Events.
Be present in the operation with a strong understanding of how the hotel trades daily. Take a forward-looking approach to forecasting, identifying risks and opportunities early and ensuring the business is positioned to respond effectively.
Financial Management and Reporting
Take full accountability for all financial reporting to the General Manager, Accor and ownership, ensuring accuracy, integrity and clarity of presentation.
Deliver all weekly, monthly, quarterly and annual reporting requirements on time and to a high standard. Maintain full oversight of the month end process including journals, profit and loss review, balance sheet reconciliation and financial statements.
Lead budgeting and forecasting processes, ensuring strong engagement from department heads and alignment to business strategy.
Owner and Stakeholder Communication
Act as the primary finance contact for ownership, regional finance teams and auditors. Provide clear, professional and commercially focused communication at all times.
Prepare and present monthly owner reports with insight into performance, risks and opportunities. Maintain strong relationships with key external stakeholders including auditors, banks and regulatory bodies.
Financial Control and Compliance
Ensure all financial controls, policies and procedures are implemented and operating effectively. Maintain oversight of income, expenses and assets with full compliance to Accor standards and statutory obligations.
Drive continuous improvement in systems, processes and controls to enhance efficiency and accuracy. Maintain detailed knowledge of legislative requirements across payroll, tax, superannuation and employment frameworks.
Operational Finance Oversight
Maintain active oversight of all finance functions including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, purchasing and receiving. Ensure discipline, accuracy and accountability across daily, weekly and monthly processes.
Manage cash flow, debtor balances and cost performance across departments. Maintain strong oversight of purchasing and stock controls to protect the asset and support operational efficiency.
Ensure effective use of hotel systems including Opera Cloud, Sun System, Zambion payroll and PurchasePlus to maintain accuracy, efficiency and reporting integrity.
Leadership and Team Development
Lead and develop a structured and high-performing finance team across accounting, purchasing, receiving, payable and payroll functions.
Set clear expectations, provide coaching and hold the team accountable for performance, accuracy and service to the business. Build capability within the team and create a strong, engaged department aligned to hotel objectives.
Drive a culture of ownership, attention to detail and continuous improvement across the Finance function.
Qualifications
Skills and Experience
Proven experience in a senior finance role within a hotel environment. Previous hotel experience is essential.
Strong commercial acumen with the ability to influence performance across multiple departments. Ability to translate financial data into meaningful insights and practical actions.
CA or CPA qualified with relevant tertiary qualifications in Accounting, Finance or Commerce.
Strong understanding of hotel systems, financial processes and compliance requirements including Opera Cloud, Sun System, Zambion payroll and PurchasePlus is highly regarded.
This is an opportunity for a high-performing Hotel Accountant or Assistant Financial Controller ready to step into a leadership role.
Personal Attributes
Commercially minded and results focused. Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence and partner across the business.
Highly organised with strong attention to detail. Confident communicator able to engage with owners, senior leaders and team members.
Resilient and adaptable within a fast-paced, complex hotel environment. Committed to building strong teams and delivering consistent financial discipline.
Eligibility
Full Australian working rights required.
Additional Information
Why Work For Accor?
Accor is one of the largest global hospitality businesses, with over 5400 Hotels across 110+ countries, the career development opportunities are endless.
Benefits Your Way
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Attractive remuneration package
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Eligibility for a Short-Term Performance Incentive program
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Access to global accommodation and F&B discounts
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#LearnYourWay with a sophisticated modern training platform, which offers a constantly expanding database of free, industry focused training.
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Recognition of service anniversaries and Accor Tenure Milestones
Our Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
We are an inclusive employer, and our ambition is to attract, recruit, and develop diverse talent. We offer reasonable adjustments to support you. If you require an adjustment to be made during the recruitment process, you are most welcome to let us know.
