Finance Manager - Hilton Accra Cantonment Pre-opening

What are we looking for?

• Ability to analyze large volume of complex financial information from many sources and create reports, forecasts, and projections
• Strong problem solving skills, including the ability to effectively address any issue in collaboration with others as appropriate
• Ability to proactively identify and prevent potential problems
• Ability to help develop problem solving skills among direct reports and other team members as appropriate
• Ability to take initiative to identify, prioritize and implement all elements required for team to fulfill responsibilities
• Ability to manage and develop staff
• Detail oriented and organized
• Ability to develop presentations and effectively present to all levels of company, hotels & owners
• Strong communication and negotiation skills (all levels of management and external customers)
• Proficient in MS Excel, Word and Outlook with the ability to quickly learn new programs when required

Additional preferences:

• University degree in Accounting or Finance

 Leaders involved in the pre-opening of a hotel need a mix of technical expertise, operational know-how, strategic thinking, and leadership skills to ensure the property launches successfully. Here are the key required skills:

1. Project Management

• Ability to manage timelines, budgets, and resources effectively.

• Overseeing pre-opening activities like construction, procurement, and vendor coordination.

• Ensuring compliance with deadlines and regulatory requirements.

2. Strategic Planning

• Developing and implementing a detailed pre-opening roadmap.

• Setting priorities, identifying critical tasks, and anticipating potential challenges.

• Creating operational workflows and systems before the opening.

3. Operational Expertise

• Understanding all hotel departments, including housekeeping, front office, food & beverage, and engineering.

• Ensuring operational readiness and team training before opening day.

• Coordinating with various stakeholders to meet brand standards.

4. Team Leadership and Development

• Hiring, onboarding, and training staff for various departments.

• Inspiring and motivating the pre-opening team to stay focused and aligned with goals.

• Promoting collaboration and addressing staff concerns during high-pressure times.

5. Budgeting and Financial Management

• Managing pre-opening budgets for staffing, marketing, and procurement.

• Analyzing forecasts to ensure the hotel’s financial health post-opening.

• Negotiating vendor contracts and overseeing cost control.

6. Brand Knowledge and Standards Implementation

• Deep understanding of the hotel’s brand standards and values.

• Ensuring consistency in design, service, and operational practices.

• Implementing quality assurance processes aligned with the brand.

7. Crisis Management and Problem-Solving

• Quickly addressing unexpected challenges during construction, staffing, or equipment setup.

• Maintaining calm and finding solutions under tight deadlines.

• Managing risks and ensuring safety compliance.

8. Attention to Detail

• Overseeing the final stages of construction, design, and furnishing to ensure perfection.

• Ensuring operational processes and service standards are fully ready for the opening.

9. Communication and Stakeholder Management

• Keeping all stakeholders, including owners, investors, and the management company, updated on progress.

• Maintaining transparent communication with the team and external partners.

• Acting as the face of the project during pre-opening press and community events.

10. Adaptability and Resilience

• Flexibility to adapt plans when unforeseen challenges arise.

• Maintaining focus under high-pressure and fast-paced conditions.

• Balancing long-term goals with immediate pre-opening demands.

Successful leaders in hotel pre-openings must also possess a customer-centric mindset, ensuring the guest experience is the primary focus from day one.

What will it be like to work for Hilton?

Hilton is the leading global hospitality company, spanning the lodging sector from luxurious full-service hotels and resorts to extended-stay suites and mid-priced hotels. For nearly a century, Hilton has offered business and leisure travelers the finest in accommodations, service, amenities and value. Hilton is dedicated to continuing its tradition of providing exceptional guest experiences across its global brands.  Our vision “to fill the earth with the light and warmth of hospitality” unites us as a team to create remarkable hospitality experiences around the world every day.  And, our amazing Team Members are at the heart of it all!