Job Listings

- Manage social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram and other relevant platforms - Develop monthly content collection calendar and manage photography bookings with outlets - Works as part of a team to develop social media monthly content calendars, including scheduling of posts for outlets  - Proposes new ideas and concepts for social media content  - Coordination of the Monthly & Quarterly activations between Marketing department and external parties - This includes PRL requests / activation updates and changes     - Coordinate collaborations and bookings with media and influencer reviews   - Collaborate with other internal teams (e.g. Digital) to develop and monitor strategic PR & direct marketing initiatives (emailer campaigns)

- Plan and organize promotional presentations; and updating calendars. - Prepare marketing reports by collecting, analyzing, and summarizing sales data. - Keep promotional materials ready by coordinating requirements with graphics department. - Accomplish organization goals by accepting ownership for accomplishing new and different requests. - Explore opportunities to add value to job accomplishments.

The Housekeeping Supervisor is responsible for the operational efficiency of all housekeeping areas and the service delivery of those areas within budgeted guidelines.   KEY RESPONSIBILITES - Supervise the implementation of housekeeping standards and procedures in relation to: - Bedroom service - Bathroom service - Valet service - Cleaning service - Linen maintenance Recommended changes to these standards and training needs on an ongoing basis. - Maintain a current and thorough knowledge of all housekeeping systems. - Assign tasks/rooms to the Housekeeping staff and show presence on the ‘floors’. - Ensure maintenance of the equipment used by the employees and ensure that it is cleaned and stored correctly. - Ensure that all vacuuming, polishing, carpet care, general cleaning is done in a professional manner and according to established schedules. - Open and close the shift and ensure effective shift hand over. - Prioritise arrival rooms. - Liaise with Front Office for guest and hotel requirements. - Ensure guest valet is processed and delivered in a timely manner. - Co-ordinate special projects (e.g. site rooms, vermin control, window and carpet cleaning, room inventories) - Manage all special requests made by guests - Ensure consistency within the department - Manage lost property for the hotel

- Implement the PPM Program and schedule of all kitchen and laundry equipment’s in the Hotel.  - Follow up local authority requirement maintenance plan for kitchen equipment’s. - Keep record and coordinate with hygiene manager to make sure all requirements are filled up for HACCP. - Attend to repairs and maintenance of laundry equipments and kitchen equipment - both electric and gas. - Be responsible for operation, repairs and maintenance of all cold rooms, fridge units, ice machines, and other refrigerated system. - Be responsible for operation, repairs and maintenance of all ovens, dishwasher, stoves and other electric and gas equipment in the kitchen. - Provide assistance / technical know-how in the installation of new or additional kitchen equipment’s. - Conduct routine inspection to kitchen and bar areas logs all his observations. - Perform daily log readings of cold rooms and other refrigerated equipment, ensuring proper operation of the equipment. - Perform equipment repairs as per manufacturer’s recommendations. - Perform assigned checklists, inspection, testing and log readings. - Check and replace fused lights in the kitchen. - Check and replace water filters for coffee machines, combi oven, ice machine and other water systems. - Perform general and emergency repairs and maintenance to all kitchen equipment. - Ensure Fire and Engineering safety features operate at peak efficiency. - Ensure proper records relating to all plant and equipment are kept. - Review daily log book, rectify or follow up on all items left unsolved from previous shifts in relation to kitchen equipment, system and units. - Perform the daily task and assignment and ensure that tasks are done in a reasonable time frame and to the standard as set by the Engineering Department. - Ensure all requests for maintenance are carried out within an acceptable time frame. - Liaise and supervise Kitchen Equipment Contractors and ensure that appropriate standards are met. - Assist other engineering associates when required. - Maintain all tools and equipment in good condition. - Ensure adequate stock of spare parts and materials - Adhere to safe operation of all plant equipment and ensure the safety of guests and staff at all times.

Job Overview:   As a Chief Engineer, you will be responsible for overseeing the engineering and maintenance operations of the hotel. This position requires a highly skilled and experienced engineer who can manage and coordinate the maintenance, repair, and improvement of the physical infrastructure, equipment, and systems in the hotel. The Chief Engineer plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety, functionality, and comfort of the property.   Key Responsibilities:   1. **Leadership and Management:**    - Provide leadership and guidance to the engineering teams.    - Oversee the hiring, training, and performance management of engineering staff.    - Develop and implement maintenance and engineering policies and procedures.   2. **Maintenance and Repairs:**    - Supervise and coordinate maintenance, repairs, and renovations in the hotel.    - Ensure that routine maintenance schedules are adhered to and that equipment and systems are in optimal working condition.    - Respond promptly to emergency maintenance issues, ensuring minimal downtime and guest inconvenience.   3. **Budget Management:**    - Assist in the development of the annual budget for maintenance and engineering operations.    - Monitor expenses and manage resources efficiently, ensuring adherence to the budget.   4. **Compliance and Safety:**    - Ensure that hotel comply with local building codes and safety regulations.    - Implement and maintain safety programs to protect employees, guests, and assets.   5. **Vendor and Supplier Management:**    - Collaborate with vendors and suppliers to procure materials, equipment, and services at competitive prices.    - Evaluate vendor performance and negotiate contracts.   6. **Project Management:**    - Manage and oversee capital improvement projects and renovations.    - Develop project timelines and budgets, and ensure projects are completed on time and within budget.   7. **Energy Efficiency:**    - Implement energy-saving initiatives to reduce utility costs and environmental impact.    - Monitor and report on energy consumption and recommend improvements.   8. **Documentation and Reporting:**    - Maintain accurate records of maintenance activities, repairs, and equipment inventory.    - Provide regular reports to the Director of Engineering or General Manager.   9. **Guest Satisfaction:**    - Strive to meet and exceed guest expectations by maintaining a well-maintained, safe, and comfortable environment.    

We are seeking a highly motivated and results-driven Sales Manager to join our hospitality team in Jeddah - KSA. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving sales and revenue growth through effective planning, execution, and management of the sales strategies. The Sales Manager will focus on attracting and retaining clients in the hospitality industry, ensuring excellent customer satisfaction and achieving sales targets. This role reports directly to the Group Director of Sales and the Property General Manager, with indirect communication and collaboration with ownership.   - Create and execute sales plans to achieve and exceed revenue targets. - Identify new business opportunities and target markets in the hospitality sector. - Build and maintain a robust sales pipeline. - Identify potential clients and build strong relationships with key decision-makers. - Conduct sales presentations, negotiations, and follow-up to secure new business. - Ensure customer satisfaction through regular communication and excellent service delivery. - Stay updated on industry trends, market conditions, and competitor activities. - Conduct market research to identify potential areas for growth and improvement. - Work closely with other departments, including marketing, operations, and finance, to ensure a coordinated approach to achieving sales objectives. - Collaborate with the events team to promote and sell hospitality services for conferences, meetings, and special events. - Develop and manage the sales budget, ensuring effective allocation of resources to achieve objectives. - Generate regular reports on sales performance, outlining key metrics and areas for improvement. - Provide timely and accurate forecasts to senior management. - Train and mentor the sales team to enhance their skills and productivity. - Conduct regular performance reviews to assess individual and team performance. - Utilize CRM tools to track and manage client interactions, sales leads, and opportunities. - Implement strategies to maintain long-term relationships with key clients.        

  - Troubleshoot IT System and Hardware. - Manage and monitor Network Devices. - Administer Databases. - Follow all company policies and procedures; protect company assets. Address guest’s service needs. - Responsible for providing comprehensive IT support and technical functions. - Monitor, operate, coordinate, assist and train others in the operation of computer hardware, software, and peripherals in order to achieve the desired result. - Provide end-user support. Manage user accounts, including set up, removal, and resetting passwords in order to ensure confidentiality and proper use. - Responsible to adhere with all information security policies and hotel/property/outlet procedures. - Manage and monitor the A/V equipment in the property/F&B outlets. - Support the F&B operational needs for POS requirements such as RVC Configuration, creatingmenu items & packages, classes, SLU, NLU,  and configure reports. - Setup, Install and troubleshoot POS, Check and KOT printers. - Maintain inventory of all technology devices. - Supporting the roll-out of new applications/systems. - Prepare project status reports. - Prioritizing and managing many open cases at one time. - This position will also require on-call response to incidents as necessary. - Oversight and management of a 24x7x365 environment which may require some off shift work.

As the Assistant Manager - Government Relations in the hospitality industry, you will play a crucial role in establishing and maintaining positive relationships between the hospitality organization and various government bodies, agencies, and officials. Your responsibilities will extend to understanding and navigating the regulatory landscape, advocating for the organization's interests, and ensuring compliance with relevant laws and regulations.   Key Responsibilities: - Government Liaison: - - Build and nurture relationships with local, regional, and national government officials, agencies, and regulatory bodies. - Represent the organization in meetings, conferences, and events related to government affairs. - Act as a point of contact between the hospitality business and government entities. - Regulatory Compliance: - Stay abreast of legislative changes, regulations, and policies that may impact the hospitality industry. - Collaborate with internal departments to ensure compliance with all relevant laws and regulations. - Advise management on potential regulatory risks and opportunities. - Policy Advocacy: - Advocate for the organization's interests in discussions with government bodies. - Work closely with industry associations and lobby groups to influence policy decisions that affect the hospitality sector. - Prepare position papers, reports, and presentations to support advocacy efforts. - Permitting and Licensing: - Facilitate the process of obtaining and renewing necessary permits and licenses. - Coordinate with government agencies to streamline and expedite licensing procedures. - Ensure all permits and licenses are up to date and in compliance with regulatory requirements. - Community Engagement: - Collaborate with community leaders and organizations to foster positive relationships. - Participate in community events and initiatives to enhance the organization's image and social responsibility. - Crisis Management: - Work with government agencies during emergencies or crisis situations that may impact the hospitality business. - Ensure compliance with emergency protocols and communicate effectively with relevant authorities. - Reporting and Documentation: - Maintain accurate records of interactions with government officials, agencies, and relevant stakeholders. - Prepare regular reports on government relations activities and their impact on the organization.

The position of Security Supervisor is responsible to protect and safeguard all hotel guests, employees, their belongings and all hotel assets under the guidance of the Chief Security Officer. S/he assists in coordinating the Security operations of the hotel to ensure maximum efficiency and guest satisfaction and promotes the desired work culture.   REQUIREMENTS: - Have a thorough understanding and knowledge of all hotel related services and products, have the ability to make recommendations to hotel guests and employees. - Perform all tasks consistently in line with the Hotel standards and adhere to all Hotel rules and procedures and the UAE legal requirements. - Manage in the absence of the Chief Security Officer the department according to the established standards providing a safe, secure, courteous, professional, efficient and flexible service at all times, following the Hotel Standards of Performance - Perform minimum one patrol per each shift of all areas of the property to observe and report any irregularities to CSO. - Conduct emergency response drills, daily physical hazard/safety inspections, investigations, interviews, security grooming and key control - Maintain proper and accurate records of all documents to include Security Log, Incident Report, Key Control, Lost and Found ,Quarantine list, Visitor Passes and gate pass. - Handle investigation and make unbiased incident report on all claims involving thefts, accidents, injury, property damage, vandalism and trespassing from either guests, visitors or employees to the Management.

The Housekeeping Supervisor is responsible for the operational efficiency of all housekeeping areas and the service delivery of those areas within budgeted guidelines.   Key Responsibilities: - Supervise the implementation of housekeeping standards and procedures in relation to: - Bedroom service - Bathroom service - Cleaning service - Linen maintenance Recommended changes to these standards and training needs on an ongoing basis. - Maintain a current and thorough knowledge of all housekeeping systems. - Assign tasks/rooms to the Housekeeping staff and show presence on the ‘floors’. - Ensure maintenance of the equipment used by the employees and ensure that it is cleaned and stored correctly. - Ensure that all vacuuming, polishing, carpet care, general cleaning is done in a professional manner and according to established schedules. - Open and close the shift and ensure effective shift hand over. - Prioritise arrival rooms. - Liaise with Front Office for guest and hotel requirements. - Ensure guest valet is processed and delivered in a timely manner. - Co-ordinate special projects (e.g. site rooms, vermin control, window and carpet cleaning, room inventories) - Manage all special requests made by guests - Ensure consistency within the department - Manage lost property for the hotel

As a Hotel Fitness Instructor, your primary responsibility is to lead fitness classes and activities for hotel guests. You will be responsible for planning and delivering fitness programs that are engaging, challenging, and tailored to the needs and preferences of guests. Responsibilities: Some of the specific duties and responsibilities of a Hotel Fitness Instructor may include: - Leading fitness classes: You will lead fitness classes, such as yoga, Pilates, aerobics, and strength training, that are designed to meet the needs and preferences of guests. - Creating fitness programs: You will design and implement fitness programs that are tailored to the fitness levels and goals of guests, using a variety of equipment and techniques. - Demonstrating exercises and techniques: You will demonstrate proper techniques and exercises for guests, providing guidance and feedback to ensure they are performing exercises safely and effectively. - Providing one-on-one training: You will provide one-on-one training and support to guests who require personalized attention or assistance. - Monitoring guest progress: You will monitor guest progress and provide feedback and encouragement to help them achieve their fitness goals. - Maintaining equipment: You will maintain and clean fitness equipment and ensure that it is safe and functional. - Promoting fitness programs: You will promote fitness programs and classes to guests, encouraging them to participate and providing information on the benefits of regular exercise. - Ensuring safety: You will ensure that all fitness activities are conducted safely and that guests are following proper safety protocols.

As a Pool Attendant, your primary responsibility is to ensure the safe and enjoyable use of the pool facilities for guests. You will be responsible for maintaining cleanliness, enforcing pool rules, and providing excellent customer service to enhance the overall guest experience.   Key Responsibilities: - Guest Services: - Greet guests as they enter the pool area and provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere. - Assist guests with inquiries, such as pool hours, location of facilities, and general information. - Safety Monitoring: - Maintain constant vigilance over the pool area to ensure the safety of guests. - Enforce pool rules and regulations to prevent accidents and promote a secure environment. - Pool Maintenance: - Perform regular inspections of the pool and surrounding areas to ensure cleanliness and safety. - Monitor water quality and report any issues to the appropriate maintenance personnel. - Equipment Setup and Maintenance: - Arrange and set up poolside furniture, umbrellas, and other amenities. - Ensure that pool equipment, such as rescue equipment and life vests, is in good condition and readily accessible. - First Aid and Emergency Response: - Be trained in basic first aid and CPR. - Respond promptly to any emergencies or accidents, providing assistance until professional help arrives. - Guest Assistance: - Assist guests with entering and exiting the pool safely. - Provide towels, poolside amenities, and any additional services as required. - Attendance Tracking: - Keep a record of pool attendance and assist in monitoring capacity limits. - Coordinate with management to implement reservation systems if necessary. - Cleaning and Upkeep: - Ensure cleanliness of pool decks, changing rooms, and surrounding areas. - Perform routine cleaning tasks such as picking up trash and organizing poolside furniture. - Education and Communication: - Educate guests on pool rules, safety guidelines, and any specific regulations. - Communicate effectively with other staff members and supervisors to address any concerns. - Reporting: - Report any incidents, accidents, or equipment malfunctions to the appropriate personnel. - Maintain accurate records of pool-related activities and incidents.

As a Lifeguard in the hospitality industry, your primary responsibility is to ensure the safety of guests using the pool and water facilities. You will be responsible for preventing accidents, responding to emergencies, and promoting a secure and enjoyable aquatic environment.   Key Responsibilities: - Surveillance and Prevention: - Maintain constant surveillance of the pool and surrounding areas. - Enforce safety rules and regulations to prevent accidents and ensure a secure environment. - Emergency Response: - Respond immediately to any emergencies or accidents in and around the pool. - Administer first aid, CPR, or other life-saving measures as necessary. - Guest Assistance: - Assist guests in entering and exiting the pool safely. - Provide information about pool facilities, rules, and regulations. - Rules Enforcement: - Enforce pool rules and guidelines to ensure the well-being of all guests. - Address and correct unsafe behaviors and practices. - Equipment Maintenance: - Inspect and maintain rescue equipment, including life vests, flotation devices, and first aid supplies. - Report any malfunctioning equipment to the appropriate personnel. - Communication: - Communicate effectively with other lifeguards and staff members. - Coordinate with pool attendants, managers, and other relevant personnel. - Training and Drills: - Participate in regular training sessions and emergency drills. - Stay current on lifeguarding techniques, first aid, and CPR certifications. - Crowd Control: - Monitor and control the number of guests in and around the pool area. - Implement and enforce capacity limits. - Cleaning and Maintenance: - Assist in maintaining cleanliness and orderliness of the pool area. - Remove debris, organize pool furniture, and report any maintenance issues. - Record Keeping: - Maintain accurate records of pool attendance, incidents, and emergency responses. - Prepare incident reports and submit them to the appropriate personnel.

Position Overview: The Front Office Associate plays a pivotal role in ensuring exceptional guest experiences at our hotel. They are responsible for providing friendly and efficient service to guests during their check-in, stay, and check-out processes. This position requires a strong customer service orientation, excellent communication skills, and the ability to handle various tasks simultaneously while maintaining professionalism and attention to detail.   Key Responsibilities: - Greet guests upon arrival and assist with the check-in process, ensuring accuracy of reservation details and payment information. - Handle guest inquiries, requests, and complaints promptly and courteously, striving to exceed guest expectations. - Provide information about hotel facilities, services, and local attractions to guests. - Process guest check-outs efficiently, settling guest accounts accurately and efficiently. - Handle cash and credit card transactions accurately, following hotel policies and procedures. - Maintain a tidy and organized front desk area, including lobby and guest service areas. - Assist with reservations, including taking bookings over the phone, email, or in person. - Collaborate with other hotel departments to ensure seamless guest experiences. - Maintain knowledge of hotel policies, procedures, and emergency protocols. - Uphold high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, and professionalism at all times. - Participate in training programs and ongoing development opportunities to enhance job skills and knowledge.  

The Head Chef is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing the culinary operations of our establishment. Working closely with the Executive Chef, the Head Chef plays a vital role in menu planning, food preparation, kitchen management, and staff supervision. This position requires exceptional culinary skills, creativity, leadership abilities, and a passion for delivering high-quality cuisine.   Key Responsibilities:   - Collaborate with the Executive Chef to develop innovative menus that reflect culinary trends, seasonal ingredients, and guest preferences. - Lead and manage the kitchen team, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management, in accordance with company policies and procedures. - Ensure the highest standards of food quality, taste, presentation, and consistency are maintained across all menu items. - Oversee food preparation, cooking, and plating, ensuring adherence to recipes, portion sizes, and food safety standards. - Monitor inventory levels, order supplies, and manage food costs to meet budgetary goals while minimizing waste. - Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for kitchen operations, including food handling, sanitation, and safety protocols. - Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen environment, including equipment maintenance and sanitation. - Stay abreast of industry trends, new ingredients, and cooking techniques, and incorporate them into menu development and kitchen practices. - Collaborate with other departments, such as F&B and procurement, to ensure seamless operations and guest satisfaction. - Conduct regular kitchen inspections to ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations. - Lead by example, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment that encourages creativity, teamwork, and professional growth. - Handle guest feedback and complaints related to food quality or service promptly and professionally, striving to exceed guest expectations.  

The Chief Steward is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing the cleanliness, organization, and efficiency of the stewarding department within a hotel or restaurant. This position involves managing a team of stewards to ensure the cleanliness of all kitchen and dining areas, proper sanitation of equipment and utensils, and efficient handling of dishwashing and waste management processes. The Chief Steward plays a crucial role in maintaining high standards of hygiene and sanitation throughout the establishment.   Key Responsibilities:   - Supervise and coordinate the activities of the stewarding team, including dishwashers, pot washers, and cleaning staff, to ensure the cleanliness and hygiene of all kitchen and dining areas. - Develop and implement cleaning schedules, procedures, and standards to maintain cleanliness and sanitation in accordance with health and safety regulations. - Train and mentor stewarding staff on proper cleaning techniques, equipment operation, and safety procedures, ensuring compliance with established protocols. - Monitor inventory levels of cleaning supplies, chemicals, and equipment, and place orders as needed to ensure sufficient stock levels. - Inspect kitchen and dining areas regularly to identify areas for improvement and ensure adherence to cleanliness standards. - Coordinate with kitchen and dining room staff to ensure the timely delivery and removal of dishes, utensils, and equipment during meal periods. - Oversee the operation of dishwashing machines and equipment, ensuring proper maintenance, cleaning, and sanitization procedures are followed. - Manage waste disposal and recycling processes, including sorting, compacting, and removal of waste materials in compliance with environmental regulations. - Maintain a clean and organized stewarding department, including storage areas, equipment rooms, and employee facilities. - Handle guest inquiries and complaints related to cleanliness and sanitation promptly and professionally, striving to exceed guest expectations. - Collaborate with other departments, such as food and beverage and housekeeping, to ensure seamless operations and guest satisfaction. - Uphold a positive attitude and professional demeanor, fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment among stewarding staff.

As a Purchasing Executive you are responsible for executing, completing and ordering all daily allocated and authorized purchase requests and order in line with hotel and storerooms needs, whereby your role will include key responsibilities such as: - Complete all administrative procedures concerning allocated requests and orders - Select best price quotations, ensure best quality for all received orders upon order allocation confirmation - Query and clarify any concerns regarding received purchase requests data, concerning description, units, quantities and specifications directly with the initiating department - Coordinate with buyers on all matters concerning allocated requests, best practices to process (quotes) and complete (delivery) within logical time period - Check and ensure that all approved and authorized purchase orders are timely forwarded (faxed or delivered) to the concerned vendors - Review and update all personally entered (locked) price quotations, supplier’s data and date validity - Interact with vendors for new products available in the market to serve as possible alternatives for used products, inform concerned and request samples for onward testing purposes and provide proof that product is of same quality, but better price

- Manage all accounting operations including Billing, A/R, A/P, GL and Counsel, Cost Accounting, Inventory Accounting and Revenue Recognition. - Coordinate and direct the preparation of the budget and financial forecasts and report variances. - Prepare and publish timely monthly financial statements. - Coordinate the preparation of regulatory reporting. - Research technical accounting issues for compliance. - Support month-end and year-end close process. - Ensure quality control over financial transactions and financial reporting. - Manage and comply with local, state, and federal government reporting requirements and tax filings. - Develop and document business processes and accounting policies to maintain and strengthen internal controls. - Additional controller duties as necessary.

Responsibilities: - Receive, classify, store, take care of, distribute, request and take inventory of food & beverage, materials, supplies and equipment. - Assist in the maintenance of perpetual inventories. - Prepare requisitions for stock replacement. - Develop methods and procedures for handling, storing and rotating stock. - Prepare lists of surplus or obsolete materials. - Take necessary precautions to protect stock from deterioration or spoilage. - Supervise the loading, unloading and dispatching of delivery trucks. - Load and unload at the point of pick-up, delivery or distribution when necessary. - Pack, unpack, count, weigh and measure materials, supplies and equipment upon receipt. - Check materials received against invoices and notes breakage and discrepancies in quantity or quality. - Enter and process supplier invoices to the Purchasing system. - Pick supplies from shelves to fill requisitions, lifting and carrying supplies when necessary. - Operate hand trucks, carts and lifting equipment. - Keep storage facilities, loading docks, materials and supplies in a neat and orderly fashion. - Assist in the preparation of data for departmental reports, inventory or studies. - Keep daily records, file and prepare reports. - Expedite any outstanding purchase orders. - Recommend modifications of stock levels on the basis of previous consumption and present orders. - Make recommendations and suggestions on problems relating to space, delivery, issue and stock control. - Participate in departmental meeting. - Assist other staff members in all areas concerning purchasing, receiving, distribution and shipping. - Determine the best method of storage to meet HACCP guidelines. - To perform any other duties that may be assigned from time to time by management.

The Finance Executive will be responsible for the administration and supervision of the operations of the Finance, ensuring that all payments are prepared accurately and on time.   As a Finance Executive, we rely on you to, • Checks to ensure that debit notes are prepared and sent off on a scheduled date each month. • Approves cheque for signing. • Ensures that all invoices are approved by authorized personnel. • Returns any unauthorized invoices. • Prepares prompt and accurate allocation of all accounts payable for posting. • Makes prompt payment of all invoices and notices discounts wherever possible. • Ensures that all invoices are properly approved for payment. • Reviews and approves coding of invoices noting any discrepancies or variations from policy. • Prepares certain expense analysis and other reports for information. • Checks on the invoices to ensure accuracy and correctness. • Cooperates with the internal and external auditors.