What are the responsibilities and job description for the Hotel Controller position at Hotel Sorrento?
Now Hiring: Hotel Controller
Location: Hotel Sorrento – Seattle, WA
Department: Finance & HR | Executive Team
Reports to: Managing Director
Classification: Full-Time | Exempt
Salary Range $100,000 - $120,000
Where History Meets Hospitality Excellence
A Seattle landmark since 1909, Hotel Sorrento blends timeless charm with boutique sophistication. From curated cultural experiences to exceptional dining, we create memorable stays for every guest. We are the Hotel Sorrento, located in Seattle, WA, Seattle's most established boutique hotel with a rich history spanning over 110 years. The hotel's mission is to provide genuine hospitality and delight guests at every level of their stay. From the inviting Fireside Room to the iconic Top of the Town, Hotel Sorrento embodies the Pacific Northwest lifestyle for its guests. As we look to the future, we’re seeking a highly motivated Hotel Controller to help lead our team with financial precision and people-first leadership.
About the Position
The Hotel Controller supervises and directs the financial activities of the hotel, including:
- Strategic planning
- Budgeting, and Forecasting
- Payroll and Cash Management
- Accounts Payable & Receivable
- Oversight of HR and IT disciplines
- Employee engagement
- Gold standard culture and core values
- Credit and Collections
- Payroll and Cash Management
- Internal Controls and Auditing
- General Ledger and Financial Statements
- Taxes,
This role safeguards the hotel’s assets and prepares all financial reports in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP). The ideal candidate is hands-on, detail-oriented, and highly organized—with the ability to manage multiple responsibilities while working collaboratively across departments.
You’ll implement and monitor internal controls, ensure compliance, and be familiar with every aspect of the accounting department, including night audit, AP/AR, general cashier, and payroll. As a key member of our Executive Committee, you’ll also serve as a trusted financial advisor to Hotel Management and Ownership
Position Mission / Overview
The Controller is the financial leader of the hotel, responsible for both short- and long-term strategic planning. Your scope includes full oversight of the Finance and Payroll departments and active involvement in hotel-wide decision-making.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading daily financial operations and ensuring accuracy and compliance
- Developing departmental budgets and managing operations within approved plans
- Generating timely reports to assist leadership in maximizing financial performance
- Partnering with the Managing Director and ownership on all financial matters
- Providing leadership in human resources support, including payroll processing, personnel file compliance, benefits coordination, and basic employee relations
- Overseeing hotel IT operations and systems from a financial and functional standpoint
This position reports directly to the Managing Director and participates in total hotel management as a valued member of the Executive Committee.
What We’re Looking For
- Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or Business Administration
- 5–10 years of progressive hotel finance experience; Controller or Assistant Controller role preferred
- Familiarity with hospitality systems, payroll platforms, and general IT operations
- Working knowledge of human resources processes and compliance best practices
- Strong leadership, analytical, and interpersonal skills
- Ability to multitask in a dynamic, guest-focused environment
Why Work With Us?
- Be part of a Seattle icon with over a century of history and hospitality
- Collaborate with a small, passionate leadership team focused on improvement
- Make a direct impact on hotel strategy employee, retention, gold standard culture and success
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Work in a unique, historic setting filled with character and charm
Apply today to bring your financial leadership and HR savvy to one of Seattle’s most distinctive hotels.
Hotel Sorrento is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all team members.
Salary : $100,000 - $120,000
