Description:
Welcome to Alila Ventana Big Sur, where the sky, sea, mountains, and redwoods meet to create a sanctuary of inspiration and connection. Our luxury resort embodies authenticity and exceptional service, offering transformative guest experiences that honor our stunning Big Sur surroundings. As a Forbes 4-Star property and recipient of two MICHELIN Keys , Alila Ventana Big Sur sets the standard for sustainable luxury in one of the world's most awe-inspiring natural settings. At Alila Ventana Big Sur, part of the Hyatt Hotels family, we seek passionate individuals who thrive on genuine hospitality, teamwork, and creating meaningful moments that exceed expectations.
Position Overview
The Chief Accountant plays a critical role in maintaining the financial health of our resort. This position oversees day-to-day accounting operations, supports budgeting and forecasting efforts, and ensures accurate financial reporting in alignment with Hyatt standards and GAAP. Ideal candidates are detail-oriented, proactive, and experienced in hospitality finance, with a strong commitment to internal controls, collaboration, and data integrity. Working closely with the Director of Finance and departmental leaders, the Chief Accountant provides analytical insight, leads accounting procedures, and helps drive informed decision-making across the resort. This role requires on-site presence and the flexibility to meet business needs in a dynamic luxury setting rooted in sustainability and operational excellence.
Key Responsibilities
Accounting & Financial Operations
Oversee daily accounting functions including general ledger, income audit, accounts payable, and accounts receivable
Prepare monthly financial statements and assist in month-end closings and reconciliations
Ensure compliance with Hyatt financial policies, GAAP, and internal controls
Support cash handling, deposits, bank reconciliations, and expense management
Monitor and analyze financial performance, providing insights and recommendations to operations
Budgeting, Analysis & Reporting
Assist in developing annual budgets and rolling forecasts
Partner with operational departments to improve financial literacy and productivity tracking
Lead or support special finance projects, audits, and process improvements
Maintain accurate records, documentation, and timely reporting schedules
Leadership & Teamwork
Supervise and support finance team members in daily tasks and development
Communicate clearly and professionally across departments to meet financial goals
Foster a collaborative environment that aligns with Alila's commitment to excellence, integrity, and personalized service
Salary Information
The salary range for this position is $70,000-$90,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. This is the reasonable pay range Alila Ventana Big Sur expects to offer. Individual compensation decisions are based on factors such as experience, education, and internal equity.
Hyatt is proud to offer exceptional benefits, which include:
Annual allotment of free and discounted hotel stays at Hyatt hotels globally
Work-life benefits including well-being initiatives such as a complimentary Headspace subscription and tuition reimbursement
A global family assistance policy with paid time off following the birth or adoption of a child, as well as financial assistance for adoption
Paid Time Off
Medical, Dental, Vision, and 401(k) with company match after 1 year of employment
Ventana Big Sur colleagues enjoy:
Free daily meal
Gas stipend for qualified candidates
Ventana Big Sur's Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.
Qualifications:
Qualifications & Requirements
Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field required
CPA or MBA strongly preferred
Minimum of two years of accounting experience, preferably in a hotel, resort, or luxury hospitality environment
A true desire to satisfy the needs of others in a fast-paced environment
Refined verbal and written communication skills
Strong analytical and organizational skills
Strong PC skills including Excel, Word, and financial accounting systems (Oracle preferred)
Proficiency with accounting processes such as reconciliation, income audit, and financial reporting
Working knowledge of GAAP and internal control procedures
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound judgment
Must be able to work on-site in a rural coastal environment with limited cell service and variable weather
Must be able to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods
Occasional walking across uneven terrain and up/down stairs may be required
Must possess a valid driver's license and reliable transportation due to remote location
Primary Location: US-CA-Big Sur
Organization: Ventana Big Sur, An Alila Resort
Pay Basis: Yearly
Job Level: Full-time
Job: Accounting/Finance/Tax
Req ID: BIG000850
Hyatt is an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, national origin, ancestry, age, religion, disability, veteran status, genetic information, citizenship status or any other group protected by law.