
Finance Manager
Nakuru, Kenya
Full-time
Finance
Principle Responsibilities & Position Purpose
The Finance Manager will lead all financial planning, accounting, and control functions during the pre-opening and operational phases of the hotel. This role ensures the establishment of robust financial systems, effective cost control, and compliance with company policies and statutory requirements. The incumbent will play a key role in setting up the hotel’s financial framework, managing budgets, and supporting the General Manager and Owners in achieving profitability and long-term financial sustainability.
Key Responsibilities
Pre-Opening Phase
- Develop and manage the pre-opening budget, ensuring all financial requirements are aligned with project timelines and company standards.
- Set up the financial and accounting systems (SunSystem), including chart of accounts, internal controls, policies, and procedures.
- Coordinate with project and procurement teams on CAPEX and OS&E budget management, approvals, and cost tracking.
- Establish vendor relationships, negotiate terms, and set up supplier payment processes.
- Assist the HR team in developing payroll systems and compensation structures.
- Support recruitment by preparing financial guidelines for departmental budgets and staffing forecasts.
- Liaise with external auditors, banks, and government agencies to ensure all statutory registrations and licenses are completed prior to opening.
- Provide financial input to pricing strategies, feasibility studies, and business plans.
Post-Opening / Operational Phase
- Oversee all accounting functions including accounts payable, accounts receivable, general ledger, payroll, and income audit.
- Prepare and monitor monthly financial statements, forecasts, and management reports.
- Ensure internal controls are maintained and that all financial transactions comply with company and legal standards.
- Develop and manage annual budgets and financial projections in coordination with department heads.
- Conduct regular cost analysis to identify savings opportunities and operational efficiencies.
- Manage cash flow, banking relationships, and treasury operations.
- Support the General Manager in strategic decision-making through accurate and timely financial analysis.
- Supervise and train the Finance team, ensuring professional development and adherence to best practices.
- Coordinate with external and internal auditors and ensure compliance with tax, labour, and financial regulations.
Qualifications and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or Commerce (CPA-K, or equivalent qualification required).
- Minimum 8–10 years’ experience in hospitality finance, including at least 3 years in a management role.
- Proven pre-opening experience in setting up hotel financial systems and controls.
- Strong knowledge of hotel accounting systems (e.g., SUN, Opera, Micros, or similar).
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
- Proven ability to manage budgets, forecasts, and financial reporting under tight deadlines.
- High level of integrity, confidentiality, and professionalism.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills; ability to work cross-functionally.
Key Competencies
- Financial planning and budgeting
- Cost control and profitability management
- Pre-opening project management
- Leadership and team development
- Compliance and internal control
- Strategic analysis and forecasting
- Decision-making and business partnering
Performance Indicators
- Timely completion of pre-opening financial setup
- Adherence to pre-opening and operational budgets
- Accuracy and timeliness of financial reporting
- Compliance with internal and external audit standards
- Cost efficiency and margin improvement
- Team competency and performance
Application Process
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit their application letter and detailed CV to nakuruhotel@excellencearete.co.ke before 31st October 2025.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
