Director of Finance

Pullman Cairns International is seeking a highly capable and commercially minded Director of Finance to lead the financial strategy and performance of 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 and 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 will be empowered to shape financial strategy, drive commercial outcomes and continue your career with one of the world’s leading hospitality groups.

Attractive remuneration package, including a Short-Term Performance Incentive program

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 management, 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 meaningful insights, maintain strong control environments and contribute to strategic decision-making and business performance.

Commercial Leadership and Business Partnering

• Operate as a key member of the hotel leadership team, partnering with 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 & Beverage and Conference and Events.
• Maintain a strong understanding of hotel operations and daily trading performance, identifying risks and opportunities early.
• Take a forward-looking approach to forecasting and business planning to ensure the hotel is positioned for continued success.

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.
• Lead the month-end process including journals, profit and loss review, balance sheet reconciliation and financial statements.
• Drive budgeting and forecasting processes, ensuring strong engagement from department heads and alignment with business strategy.

Owner and Stakeholder Communication

• Act as the primary finance contact for ownership, regional finance teams and auditors.
• Prepare and present monthly owner reports with clear insights 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 while ensuring compliance with Accor standards and statutory obligations.
• Drive continuous improvement across systems, processes and controls to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Maintain detailed knowledge of legislative requirements across payroll, taxation, 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, accounts 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.

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.
• Experience with 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 senior leadership role.

Personal Attributes

• Commercially minded and results focused, with the ability to influence business outcomes.
• Strong leadership presence with the ability to partner across all levels of the organisation.
• Highly organised with strong attention to detail and a commitment to accuracy.
• 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.

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

• Access to global accommodation and F&B discounts
• #LearnYourWay with a sophisticated modern training platform, which offers a constantly expanding database of free, industry focused training.
• 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.