Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia
1 day ago
Assistant Financial Controller

Company Description

Refreshingly understated, contemporary and simple. Whether you want a leisurely family break or romantic escape, AVANI hotels and resorts provide the right space for relaxed and inspired comfort. Discerning service, relaxed dining and engaging recreation facilities for all guests are a given.

Job Description

JOB SUMMARY:

The Assistant Financial Controller is responsible for ensuring that all the financial affairs of the hotel are conducted to the highest standards of honesty and integrity.  High ethical standards are necessary to maintain both competitive advantage, the pride, confidence of our associates, to provide quality products & services to customers and clients. To ensure that the financial statement is closed and audited in a timely manner and accurate

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Financial Oversight

Ensure accurate financial reporting, cost control, and budget adherence across all hotels in the area.Coordinate with owners, MHG, and external auditors to meet financial reporting and compliance standards.Work with the Financial Controller to prepare and critique monthly Profit & Loss (P&L) statements and provide executive summaries.Ensure the completion of financial compliance checklists (FC checklist, management contract compliance, P&L manual compliance).Conduct and participate in credit meetings with the Financial Controller, Credit Manager, and senior finance personnel.

Financial Reporting & Analysis

Oversee the preparation of financial reports, including:Monthly P&L statementsBalance sheet reconciliationsCash flow reportsVariance analysis & executive summariesFinalize the P&L critique and discuss financial performance with General Manager, Financial Controller, and Department Heads.

Budgeting, Forecasting & Cost Control

Assist in preparing annual budgets and rolling forecasts for all hotels in the area.Conduct detailed variance analysis, comparing actual performance against budgeted figures.Identify cost-saving opportunities and revenue enhancement strategies.Ensure department heads follow budgetary controls and financial planning guidelines

Compliance, Auditing & Internal Controls

Lead and document action plans for any internal audit findings or compliance reviews.Ensure compliance with MHG policies, local tax regulations, and statutory requirements.Oversee internal and external audits, ensuring proper documentation and corrective actions.Ensure statutory tax payments (VAT, payroll tax, withholding tax, etc.) are submitted accurately and on time.

Revenue Management & Cash Flow Oversight

Monitor daily revenue performance, ensuring proper revenue recognition across properties.Ensure effective Accounts Receivable (A/R) & Accounts Payable (A/P) processes.Conduct credit risk assessments, ensuring timely debt collection and minimal outstanding balances.Approve bank transactions and reconciliations, ensuring accuracy and compliance.Regularly review cash flow reports and working capital requirements.

Procurement & Supplier Management

Oversee the supplier selection process, ensuring vendor contracts align with financial objectives.Approve supplier agreements, contract labor negotiations, and procurement schedules.Ensure timely processing of purchase requests and purchase orders for all hotels.Oversee cost evaluations for slow-moving stock, par level establishment, and inventory audits.Review and approve imported goods procurement and customs documentation when required.

Financial System Management & Technology Integration

Oversee financial ERP systems, accounting software compliance, and access controls.Ensure data security and reporting automation across all properties.Review and approve Hyperion and Anantara financial reports before submission.Inventory & Asset ManagementEnsure inventory control procedures are implemented and align with General Ledger balances.Oversee food & beverage cost controls, reviewing consumption vs. sales reports.Monitor asset acquisitions, depreciation schedules, and capital expenditure tracking.

Capital Expenditure Oversight

Approve CAPEX budgets and expenditures, ensuring all projects align with financial objectives.Oversee CAPEX contract negotiations and vendor performance tracking.Oversee the hotel's fixed asset register, ensuring accurate tracking of acquisitions, disposals, depreciation, and impairments.

Payroll, Compensation & Benefits Oversight

Review payroll processingEnsure proper payroll reconciliation, statutory deductions, and incentive schemes.Conduct random payroll audits to prevent fraud or miscalculations.Oversee time & attendance data management for contract and casual .

Leadership, Team Management & Training

Provide financial leadership and guidance to finance teams across all hotels in the area.Ensure proper training and professional development of finance personnel.Conduct monthly finance training sessions, ensuring compliance with corporate policies.Evaluate and improve finance team efficiency and reporting structures.

Credit Control & Debt Collection

Ensure proper credit risk assessments and limit approvals for corporate clients.Manage debt collection strategies and resolution of overdue accounts.Review monthly credit reports and aging analysis, ensuring minimal bad debts.Approve credit reinstatements and adjustments as per corporate policy.

Other Responsibilities

Act as a financial liaison between hotels in the area and all the reporting wings.Attend Executive Committee (EXCOM) meetings, providing financial insights and recommendations.Complete any other projects, tasks, or activities as assigned from time to time

SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE REQUIREMENTS:

Understands the business environment and the strategic objectives and challenges of the overall company operation.Processes information intelligently and analytically, leading to well-informed judgements and logical and coherent conclusionsStrong communication skills with the ability to make contact with all levels within the company and each business unit

 DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

Must possess the appropriate professional qualification held by Finance professionals including good accounting knowledgeGood English Language Communication with reading, writing and speaking skillsFluency with computer applications particularly Microsoft office products, email with experience in general ledger and other hotel-relateds computer operating systems

CONFIDENTIALITY

The company requires that you will not either during or after your employment divulge any information about the company or its customers and guests to any third party without written authorisation from their Manager.

Qualifications

Qualifications:

Good analytical, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills

Able to work in a fast-paced environment

Good Command of business English

Sense of commercial

Education:

Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration (BBA), Finance & Accounting

Full ACCA, ZICA or CIMA

Experience:

Minimum 5-year experience with Big4 audit firm or financial analyst

Additional Information

Member of ZICA

Full grade twelve school certificate

Three treceable referees, with their emails and mobile numbers

Closing date; 20th February 2025

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