Controller

Description

ABOUT CHETOLA RESORT

For over 175 years, Chetola Resort has offered guests a timeless mountain escape in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Serving as the gateway to beautiful Blowing Rock, North Carolina, Chetola is a luxury destination where refined hospitality meets immersive outdoor experiences—from award-winning dining and spa indulgence to Orvis®-endorsed fly fishing and family-friendly recreation.

Under new ownership, Chetola is entering an exciting chapter rooted in thoughtful renewal, authentic elegance, and exceptional guest service. With an affluent, year-round clientele, we are committed to delivering warm, memorable experiences through genuine care and operational excellence.

THE ROLE

Chetola Resort is seeking a proactive, detail-driven Controller to oversee the resort’s accounting operations and guide its financial strategy. The Controller will manage the daily functions of the accounting department, ensure accurate and compliant financial reporting, and serve as a strategic partner to the Executive Team.

The Controller also plays a critical behind-the-scenes role in supporting Forbes-aligned service excellence by ensuring financial accuracy, discretion, and seamless cross-department collaboration that protects guest trust.

This role is primarily on-site in Blowing Rock, NC, reflecting the importance of close collaboration with resort leadership, operations teams, and on-property systems. Limited flexibility may be considered for the right candidate; however, the Controller must be available to be on property a minimum of 2–3 times per month. This on-site expectation may be evaluated over time based on business needs, performance, and the level of operational partnership required.

This is a unique opportunity for a financially-minded leader who thrives in fast-paced environments, enjoys building strong systems and teams, and wants to contribute to the long-term success of a beloved mountain resort while enabling consistent, high-quality guest experiences through strong financial operations.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

Financial Leadership

• Oversee the accounting department, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and bank reconciliations
• Maintain and enhance accounting policies, procedures, and internal controls
• Prepare monthly, quarterly, and annual financial statements and reports, including budgets, forecasts, and tax planning
• Work with the Executive Team to guide financial decisions through clear, timely financial insights
• Develop, recommend, and monitor financial performance benchmarks and KPIs
• Coordinate and lead audits, including preparation of required documentation

Service Excellence & Operational Partnership

• Ensure financial systems and controls support accurate guest billing, folios, and charges, minimizing discrepancies and surprises
• Partner closely with Front Office, Rooms, Food & Beverage, and Operations leaders to resolve billing or financial issues quickly, discreetly, and professionally
• Support timely payroll and vendor payments to maintain team morale and uninterrupted resort operations
• Identify and correct financial or process gaps that could negatively impact the guest experience or service flow
• Promote clear cross-department communication so issues are resolved without friction or guest repetition

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and local financial regulations
• Coordinate and lead audits, including preparation of required documentation
• Identify financial risks and recommend mitigation strategies
• Maintain confidentiality, professionalism, and discretion when handling sensitive financial or employee-related matters

Strategic Partnership & Oversight

• Provide clear financial insights to support operational and strategic decision-making
• Recommend performance benchmarks and help track key financial KPIs
• Partner with department leaders to manage budgets and improve financial performance
• Balance fiscal responsibility with service-driven operational needs and staffing requirements

Team Development

• Hire, train, and supervise accounting team members
• Foster a culture of accountability, accuracy, collaboration, and service-minded professionalism
• Evaluate team workflows and implement process improvements that enhance efficiency and reliability

Requirements

ABOUT YOU

• A detail-oriented and trustworthy financial leader with a strong command of accounting principles and business operations
• Confident working both independently and collaboratively with cross-functional teams
• Capable of balancing day-to-day financial tasks with long-term strategy
• Known for your integrity, analytical skills, and ability to meet deadlines
• Able to thrive in a hospitality setting and adapt to a dynamic resort environment
• Understands how financial accuracy, discretion, and timeliness directly impact guest trust and service quality
• Approaches financial leadership with a hospitality mindset—calm, solutions-oriented, and collaborative
• Values being present and engaged on-site to build strong partnerships, support operations, and stay closely connected to the business

REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field (Master’s preferred)
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive accounting experience, with leadership responsibilities
• Experience with M3 and Insight accounting systems preferred
• Strong understanding of GAAP, financial reporting, and audit practices
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to explain financial concepts clearly
• Previous hospitality, resort, or club experience is a plus and strongly preferred in service-driven environments

WHY CHETOLA

• One of the largest private employers in the county with strong opportunities for professional growth
• Work closely with resort leadership to shape the financial health and future of a treasured mountain destination
• Culture rooted in connection, craftsmanship, and care
• Competitive salary
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, vision, supplemental plans, PTO, and resort perks