What does this job involve?
- Keeping track of every financial transaction in the hotel, usually through computerised systems, to ensure that all incoming and outgoing money is accurately recorded and handled. Discrepancies must be investigated thoroughly, and corrected, or the reason (a mistake or fraud) reported.
- Preparing detailed reports of income and expenditure, usually monthly or weekly, with comparisons to forecasts and previous periods. You will also prepare profit-and-loss accounts and the balance sheet for senior management.
- Preparing budgets and being involved in business planning, which includes projected room revenue.
- Reconciling bank statements and accounting for VAT and PAYE. You will chase late payments, report bad debts, and keep a careful eye on the cash flow, so that the business avoids a crisis such as an unauthorised overdraft.
- Handling wage and salary calculations and payments
What skills and attributes do I need?
- Finance skills
- Computer skills such as budgeting and spreadsheet software
- Organisation skills
How can I get this job?
Some people can enter this position through having good mathematics skills. Qualifications in accountancy, though, are most useful. Some employers may provide training.
In larger hotels, the hotel accountant may be a qualified accountant.