What are the responsibilities and job description for the Controller position at Detroit Foundation Hotel?
Controller Position Profile
Reports to: Area Director of Finance, position is exempt
WHO WE ARE
Hotels done differently. It is not just a slogan; it is who we are in everything we do. We believe in the power of People, Place, and Character; ensuring our properties are a place where individuals are valued and celebrated as a tribute to the neighborhoods and the people of the communities in which we operate; elevating our associates’ pride in who they are, where they live and who we serve.
A little bit rebel, a little bit refined, The Populus is smart and sophisticated, charming, and confident, and always down for shaking up the status quo. Consistently moving the needle on what a social club can be, Populus thrives on the counterculture spirit, constantly challenging what it means to gather and engage while connecting guests to each other and what inspires them. Populus believes the more interested you are, the more interesting you are!
Since its founding, Aparium has grown into a new kind of hotel brand, one that ventures off the beaten path, both geographically and philosophically. It is a sophisticated hotel brand known for its singular ability to combine the business acumen of large hospitality companies with the charm of boutique hotels. At Populus, the ideals of Opportunity, Equity, and Inclusion (OEI) for our members are at the forefront of the community and the environment we will create.
WHO YOU ARE
You are confident in your abilities to be a General (strategic thinker) and a Soldier (tactical doer). You thrive in a creative, fast-paced environment and partners closely with the operations team to maintain the hotel’s unique personality while driving profitability and fiscal responsibility. Your experiences have led you to understand that there is an art science to the how and what an Accounting and Finance professional is responsible for; the passion to understand and support the direction of the business and the importance of knowing how people drive the success of the company.
You enjoy the camaraderie of a team and know that everyone plays an important role, no matter their title. When one of the members of the team goes down, you are the first to jump in and pick them up. You know the ins and the outs of every accounting position in your office and are willing to jump in the trenches and find solutions to improving the process. Your experience and history will drive how you approach this role, but you are always striving to learn more. Glasses are always half full to you and laughter is the best medicine.
THE ROLE
We believe every individual should be proud of who they are, where they come from and take pride in who we serve. We are in search for a diverse leader for the Controller role. The Controller is responsible for overseeing all financial and accounting functions for the hotel, ensuring the accuracy and integrity of financial reporting, effective internal controls, and compliance with all applicable laws and brand standards. This role reports to the Area Director of Finance and department heads to drive profitability, manage budgets, and support strategic decision-making for the hotel’s success. This position assists in the accounting and finances for the hotel and responsible for promoting and adhering to GAAP compliance and alignment with the AHLA Uniform System of Accounts. It is crucial this role position themselves as the go-to person in the hotel for support, coaching and education on company accounting processes, procedures, and practices.
WHAT YOU WILL DO
- Oversee all accounting functions including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, bank reconciliations, and general ledger management.
- Assist in the preparation of budgets and forecasts for the property.
- Prepare and process payroll on a bi-weekly basis.
- Prepare and present timely monthly financial statements, management reports, and variance analyses.
- Manage income controls, payables, and receivables, train property management on processes.
- Assist with on-boarding/training of property teams in accounting disciplines.
- Finance lead in systems implementations related to the finance discipline.
- Assist in development and implementation procedures and necessary training to promote the efficient, effective, and timely completion of accounting activities by the accounting team.
- Provide financial analysis as required.
- Prepare daily reports such as daily revenue reports, daily labor reports, and daily cash reconciliation.
- Assist in month end closing, balance sheet reconciliations, and all other monthly requirements of financial reporting and records management.
- Maintain compliance with GAAP and ownership/brand reporting requirements.
- Monitor cash flow, approve disbursements, and ensure accurate daily revenue reporting.
- Support General Manager and corporate team with forecasting, trend analysis, and financial modeling.
- Assist team members in guest communications and questions as needed.
- Perform other job-related duties as requested by management.
HOW YOU WILL LEAD
- Maintain a good working relationship with other associates by promoting teamwork and fostering a harmonious working climate.
- Lead and mentor accounting staff, fostering a culture of accountability, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Serve as a trusted business partner to ownership, management, and department heads.
- Partake in a positive work ethic and surrounding environment.
- Able to work alone without direct supervision.
- Demonstrate high degree of drive and determination.
- Constantly recommend service and product improvement to better the operation.
- Keep the work area clean and tidy at all times.
- Attend all required meetings.
- Follow proper payroll and uniform procedures.
- Maintain complete knowledge of and comply with all departmental polices/service procedures/standards.
- Assist with responsibilities and duties in other departments and as assigned by management.
- Due to the cyclical nature of the hospitality industry, associates may be required to work varying schedules to reflect the business needs of the hotel.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED
- A 2-Year degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field required.
- Minimum 3-4 years of progressive accounting experience, preferably within the hotel, hospitality, or lifestyle industry.
- Strong understanding of hotel accounting systems (M3, Opera, PMS/POS integrations, etc.).
- Proven experience preparing and analyzing financial statements and operational metrics.
- Experience in hotel balance sheet reconciliations, specifically bank, cash, and credit card reconciliations.
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Professional, passionate, and positive work environment
YOUR BENEFITS
- Paid Time Off to relax, recharge, and take care of what matters most.
- Paid Volunteer Time so you can give back and make an impact in your community.
- A Culture of Belonging built on Opportunity, Equity, and Inclusion — where every voice is heard and valued.
- Complimentary Shift Meals crafted daily by our in-house culinary team.
- Food & Beverage Discounts so you can savor our creations beyond your shift.
- Exclusive Hotel Discounts with special room rates across all Aparium properties for you and your out-of-town guests.
- Pet Insurance Options through ASPCA, because we know your furry friends are family too.
- 401(k) Plan for full-time associates to help you invest in your future.
- Comprehensive Health Coverage including medical, dental, vision, and supplemental insurance for all full-time regular associates.
As an Equal Opportunity Employer, Aparium Hospitality Services celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an equitable and inclusive environment, and a sense of belonging for all associates. We do not discriminate and believe every individual should be proud of who they are, and where they come from and take pride in who we serve. Aparium is an E-Verify employer.
