Cluster Cost Controls Manager

Over the past two decades, The First Group has forged a reputation as one of the hospitality industry’s leading innovators, providing groundbreaking investment opportunities to clients and partners, while delivering exceptional, memorable experiences to hotel and leisure guests. Our corporate ethos and unique vision for the future of hospitality is encapsulated in our fast-growing portfolio of award-winning hotels and residences, exciting F&B outlets and lifestyle venues, and delivered through our array of complementary third-party hotel and asset management services.

Core to our vision for the future of hospitality is The First Collection, our award-winning hotel brand that reflects the rich culture, innovative spirit, and unparalleled refinement for which Dubai is famous for.The First Collection’s urban lifestyle resorts, situated in prime locations across Dubai, are renowned for their unique blend of world-class hospitality and modern flair, as well as their cutting-edge guest facilities and services, which include exclusive access to the stunning Soluna Restaurants and Beach Club, located on the world-famous Palm Jumeirah.

Every hotel in our fast-growing portfolio reflects our ambition to capture the essence of urban living, blending it seamlessly with the tranquillity of a serene getaway.

The First Collection echoes the city’s heartbeat, ensuring all our guests are made to feel a part of the magnificent tapestry of Dubai, the world’s most exciting metropolis.

Role Overview:

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Cluster Cost Controls Manager to join our growing finance team. This role will be pivotal in managing and controlling the cost structures across multiple properties in The First Group Hospitality. The successful candidate will work closely with the operational and finance teams to ensure effective budget management, cost efficiency, and the financial success of the hotels.

Key Responsibilities:

• Cost Control Management: Oversee the preparation, analysis, and implementation of cost control strategies for multiple hotels in the cluster, ensuring all departments operate within their allocated budgets.
• Financial Reporting: Provide regular and detailed financial reports on operating costs, variances, and forecasted cost trends to senior management. Analyze financial performance and recommend corrective actions when necessary.
• Budgeting & Forecasting: Lead the budgeting process for the cluster, including monthly forecasts, and work closely with the finance and operations teams to adjust forecasts based on real-time data.
• Operational Support: Collaborate with hotel department heads and managers to identify cost-saving opportunities and implement efficient processes, ensuring that all financial targets are met without compromising service quality.
• Compliance & Auditing: Ensure adherence to company policies and procedures regarding cost management and financial reporting. Support internal and external audits as required, providing accurate and timely financial data.
• Inventory Control: Oversee inventory management across the cluster, working with operational teams to track and control stock levels, reducing waste and improving procurement processes.
• Process Improvement: Continuously evaluate cost control processes, systems, and tools to identify opportunities for improvement and implement best practices across the cluster.
• Training & Development: Provide guidance and training to hotel management teams on cost control best practices, financial literacy, and the importance of maintaining profitability.

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field. Professional certification (CFA, CPA, or similar) is a plus.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in cost control, finance, or accounting roles within the hospitality industry, with at least 2 years in a managerial position.
• Strong knowledge of financial reporting, budgeting, and forecasting processes.
• Proficiency in accounting software and Excel, with experience using ERP systems such as Oracle or SAP.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to identify trends and provide actionable insights.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities simultaneously.