Director of Finance

Our Brand / Sofitel

Emerging as a pioneering French luxury hospitality brand in 1964, Sofitel brings French zest and inspires heartfelt encounters to the most sought-after destinations worldwide. Seamlessly melding local culture with the French zest for life through remarkable savoir-faire and generous service, Sofitel is for free-minded travelers and arts and culture afficionados who have an appreciation for a refined and understated sense of modern luxury.

With over 115 Sofitel and Sofitel Legend hotels in more than 45 countries, our reach is truly global, making the sky the limit for growth opportunities. As our portfolio expands each year, there are ample opportunities to be involved in both our existing properties, and our future openings. 

Our Hotel / Sofitel Rio de Janeiro Ipanema

A landmark for Sofitel in the Americas, Sofitel Rio de Janeiro Ipanema re-emerges as a revitalized beachfront icon where French elegance meets the vibrant Carioca lifestyle. Designed as a sanctuary of art, craftsmanship, and sensory experiences, the hotel sets a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in Rio de Janeiro.

The property features 172 rooms and suites with the signature Sofitel MyBed, refined art-filled interiors, and sweeping views of Two Brothers Hill. Guests enjoy elevated dining at the 22nd-floor Chef’s Table, a rooftop infinity pool, wellness spa, Beach Club, and the exclusive Club Millésime lounge for personalized service and private check-in.

The design vision is led by Brazilian architect Patricia Anastassiadis, whose storytelling approach blends heritage, artistry, and contemporary sophistication, creating spaces that feel both meaningful and deeply connected to place.

Set beneath the iconic Christ the Redeemer, Sofitel Rio de Janeiro Ipanema stands as the ultimate destination for discerning travelers — where luxury meets the true soul of Rio.

Role Description / What you will do

We are seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Finance to lead the financial strategy and operations for the pre-opening and ongoing management of Sofitel Ipanema. In this pivotal leadership role, you will oversee all financial aspects of the hotel, supporting the General Manager and Executive Committee in building a strong financial foundation during the pre-opening phase and ensuring sustainable profitability once the hotel is fully operational.

You will play a key role in establishing financial systems, controls, and processes prior to opening, while providing strategic financial leadership to drive operational performance, profitability, and compliance. This role requires a highly analytical and detail-oriented leader who thrives in a collaborative luxury hospitality environment and is committed to delivering excellence.

• Lead financial planning and budgeting for the pre-opening phase, including development of the pre-opening budget and cash flow forecasts;
• Establish accounting systems, financial procedures, and internal control frameworks in line with Accor standards;
• Monitor pre-opening expenditures and capital investments, ensuring alignment with project budgets;
• Collaborate with owners, project teams, and corporate stakeholders to ensure financial transparency;
• Recruit, structure, and train the Finance team in preparation for hotel opening;
• Act as a strategic partner to the General Manager and Executive Committee, providing financial insights to support decision-making;
• Analyze operational performance and recommend strategies to enhance profitability and efficiency;
• Participate in revenue management, forecasting, and strategic planning meetings;
• Support department heads in implementing corrective action plans based on financial analysis and audit findings;
• Oversee preparation of financial statements, management reports, and performance analysis;
• Lead the development of annual budgets, capital plans, and rolling forecasts;
• Monitor balance sheet accounts and investigate significant variances;
• Implement benchmarking and cost control initiatives to improve productivity and financial performance;
• Manage capital expenditure processes, fixed assets, and depreciation;
• Ensure full compliance with corporate policies, accounting standards, and local regulations;
• Maintain robust internal control systems and proper segregation of duties;
• Oversee cash management, disbursements, credit policies, and collection procedures.
• Safeguard hotel assets and oversee financial aspects of contracts and legal documentation.
• Prepare financial reports for ownership, corporate office, and senior management;
• Liaise with external partners including auditors, tax advisors, legal counsel, and financial institutions;
• Ensure compliance with all local fiscal, tax, and licensing requirements;
• Promote financial awareness and business acumen across department leaders.

Experience & Qualifications / What you will bring

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Accounting or related field (Master’s or MBA preferred) with CPA or equivalent professional accounting certification;
• Fluent in English and Portuguese, with strong written and verbal communication skills;
• 10+ years of progressive experience in finance, accounting or financial analysis;
• Solid experience leading teams and managing complex financial operations or projects;
• Strong background in financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, and business performance analysis;
• Experience with systems, accounting platforms, and financial reporting tools;
• Advanced skills in financial analysis, variance analysis, financial modeling, and cash flow management;
• Solid knowledge of internal controls, compliance frameworks, and risk management;
• Strong leadership, stakeholder management, and cross-functional collaboration capabilities;
• Luxury hospitality industry experience preferred, including familiarity with hotel revenue management, financial systems implementation, and operational finance within a upscale hotel environment.

How You Will Shine

• Express entrepreneurial spirit and leadership while embodying the French Art de Vivre;
• Demonstrate humble excellence through a distinguished presence, refined savoir-faire, and meticulous attention to detail (Cousu Main);
• Be a passionate team player — warm, sociable, and genuinely caring toward others;
• Exhibit a strong sense of luxury by creating meaningful stories, rituals, and traditions;
• Embrace a true Francophile mindset, showing curiosity and appreciation for French language, culture, history, and cuisine;
• Demonstrate open-mindedness, creativity, and a spirit of innovation;
• Act as a cultural link by engaging with local arts, gastronomy, fashion, and contemporary design;
• Champion committed luxury with a strong sense of care and responsibility.