QUESTIONS ABOUT THE CONTROLLER – Eszter Fodor, Nouhaila El Jouli

1.- What is the mission of the Controller?

The mission is to maintain overall responsibilities and lead the hotel in the effective
management of hotel expenses relative to business volumes.

2.- What functions does a Controller develop in a Hotel?

Reporting, preparation of analysis and accounting, Financial planning, operation

administration, identifying analysing and implementing new revenue sources.

3.- What training is required to reach the position of Controller?

o CMA/CGA, or degree/diploma in accounting/finance

o Minimum 5 years in a Senior Accounting role
o Hospitality experience preferred
o Strong leadership and supervisory experience
o Experience generating and analyzing monthly financial reports
o Experience with budgetary processes;
o Knowledge of local, regional, provincial and federal laws and regulations
(including tax regulations)
o Experience implementing and maintaining effective purchasing processes
o Intermediate working knowledge of Microsoft Excel mandatory
o Experience with Microsoft Word and Network systems

4.- What are the professional skills / abilities more demanded?

o Strong written and verbal communication skills

o Understands and demonstrates customer service and works to build
organizational credibility
o Strategic thinker and able to work supporting the overall business plan
o Sets achievement oriented goals and standards both personally and for the
Accounting team
o Communicates and problem solves effectively, finding solutions that are
beneficial to guests, associates and the organization
o Enhances one's own ability and the ability of other's to contribute
o Displays a positive attitude, maintains enthusiasm and celebrates success

5.- How old could that position be reached?

Students interested in becoming a controller typically study in an area such as

accounting, finance, business or economics. They must acquire a minimum of five
years of relevant professional experience, and some controller jobs can require
upwards of 10 years of experience.
6.- How much would a good Controller earn in a hotel chain?

The average Hotel Controller salary is $86,290 as of August 27, 2023, but the salary
range typically falls between $79,048 and $97,850. Salary ranges can vary widely
depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional
skills,the number of years you have spent in your profession.

7.- What could be the professional career of the Controller?

A controller’s career often starts with multiple years spent in various accounting
positions before moving up to become an assistant controller. Their time working as
an assistant controller helps them develop the necessary managerial skills and
experience to serve as a controller. The next stage in the career path could be
stepping into the role of finance director or chief financial officer.