Controller

KLR Executive Search Group LLC; Newport (RI); On-site; USD 140,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A hospitality recruitment firm is seeking a hands-on Controller for a growing organization in Newport, RI. This role is the primary financial leader responsible for accounting, payroll, and financial administration. Ideal candidates will have 5–7+ years of experience, preferably in hospitality, and a proven ability to manage financial operations independently. The position offers a competitive base salary ranging from $140,000 to $150,000, along with bonus potential and benefits.

Qualifications

• 5–7+ years of accounting or Controller experience.
• Hospitality experience strongly preferred.
• Proven ability to manage the monthly close independently.

Responsibilities

• Own the monthly close and prepare financial statements.
• Oversee general ledger accounting and financial accuracy.
• Manage cash flow and banking relationships.

Skills

Accounting expertise

Strong Excel skills

Financial reporting

Detail-oriented

Growth-oriented mentality

Job description

KLR Executive Search Group is proud to partner with Gardiner Hospitality, a growing hospitality group based in Newport, RI, to recruit its new Controller. Gardiner Hospitality operates a collection of interconnected concepts, including a luxury boutique hotel, food and beverage operations, private events, and related hospitality businesses.

As the organization continues to grow, Gardiner Hospitality is seeking a hands‑on Controller to serve as the central point of accountability for accounting, payroll, and financial administration across multiple entities.

This role serves as the primary on‑site financial leader, owning the monthly close, financial reporting, cash management, and financial discipline required to support a fast‑growing hospitality platform. This is not a narrowly scoped, corporate Controller role, but a build‑and‑scale opportunity for a finance professional who thrives in an entrepreneurial environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Own the monthly close and prepare financial statements, P&Ls, and cash flow forecasts
• Oversee general ledger accounting and financial accuracy across entities
• Manage cash flow, banking relationships, and seasonal liquidity planning
• Coordinate hospitality‑related taxes, payroll, and compliance
• Partner with ownership and operations to deliver actionable financial insights

Qualifications:

• 5–7+ years of accounting or Controller experience
• Hospitality experience strongly preferred
• Proven ability to manage the monthly close independently
• Strong Excel and financial reporting skills
• Hands‑on, detail‑oriented, and comfortable in a growth‑stage environment

Compensation:

• Base salary: $140,000–$150,000 plus bonus and benefits