Unit Controller - Raleigh Convention Center

Gondola; Raleigh, Northern (NC, KY); Hybrid; USD 85,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Sodexo Live! is seeking an experienced Unit Controller for the Raleigh Convention Center to oversee financial and operational performance.

You will partner with operations and leadership to drive profitability, prepare financial reports, and ensure compliance within a fast-paced conventions environment. Located in downtown Raleigh, this role requires strong cost accounting and ERP expertise, plus the ability to guide strategic decisions and improve guest satisfaction through better financial

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA or CMA preferred).
• 3–5 years of experience in a financial/controller role, preferably within the hospitality or food and beverage industry.
• Strong knowledge of financial systems, cost accounting, and ERP systems (e.g., Oracle, SAP, or restaurant POS/BOH systems).
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other MS Office tools.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Fast‑paced, customer‑focused food and beverage environment.
• May require occasional evenings, weekends, or holiday work, depending on business needs.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and review monthly financial statements, budgets, forecasts, and variance analyses.
• Monitor and analyze KPIs, including food cost, labor cost, and inventory turnover.
• Ensure accuracy of all accounting entries and maintain compliance with internal controls.
• Analyze food, beverage, and labor costs to identify savings opportunities.
• Work with kitchen and purchasing teams to manage waste and minimize shrinkage.
• Ensure timely submission of financial reports and operational metrics.
• Maintain adherence to corporate policies, regulatory standards, and industry best practices.
• Support internal and external audits.
• Act as a business partner to the Unit General Manager and operational teams.
• Participate in strategic planning, cost-benefit analysis, and profitability improvement initiatives.
• Provide insights and recommendations for improving efficiency and guest satisfaction.

Skills

Financial analysis

Cost accounting

ERP systems

Excel

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Accounting or Finance

Tools

Oracle

SAP

POS/BOH systems

Job description

Job Listing: Unit Controller - Raleigh Convention Center

At Sodexo Live!, we take pride in crafting exceptional events at the most prestigious venues on the planet and creating lasting memories for fans, visitors, guests and team members. Working with Sodexo Live! is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater. Here, you'll build a career where 'everyday' is anything but normal.

Our experiences are unique, and so are our people. Bring your personality, your background and your desire to delight others. In return, we'll give you all you need to thrive. After giving it all, you'll return home knowing that you've played your part in creating a truly unforgettable moment.

Location

We are seeking an experienced Unit Controller for the Raleigh Convention Center located in Raleigh, NC.

Located in downtown Raleigh, the Raleigh Convention Center is a premier destination for conventions, trade shows, conferences, meetings, and special events, welcoming guests from across the country throughout the year. The venue offers a fast-paced, high-volume environment with extensive food & beverage operations supporting large-scale events and diverse guest experiences. With opportunities across catering, concessions, and hospitality, the Raleigh Convention Center is an exciting place to build a career in a dynamic and guest-focused operation.

Job Overview

The Unit Controller is responsible for overseeing the financial and operational performance of the Raleigh Convention Center. This role ensures financial accuracy, cost controls, compliance with policies, and supports strategic decision-making through financial analysis. The Unit Controller partners closely with operations and management teams to enhance profitability and operational efficiency. With guidance from the Corporate Office and under direction of the Regional Controller, the Unit Controller will work in close partnership with the General Manager and will play a key leadership role in running an efficient, effective, and profitable food and beverage operation.

Essential Responsibilities

• Prepare and review monthly financial statements, budgets, forecasts, and variance analyses.
• Monitor and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs), including food cost, labor cost, and inventory turnover.
• Ensure accuracy of all accounting entries and maintain compliance with internal controls.
• Analyze food, beverage, and labor costs to identify savings opportunities.
• Work with kitchen and purchasing teams to manage waste and minimize shrinkage.
• Ensure timely submission of financial reports and operational metrics.
• Maintain adherence to corporate policies, regulatory standards, and industry best practices.
• Support internal and external audits.
• Act as a business partner to the Unit General Manager and operational teams.
• Participate in strategic planning, cost-benefit analysis, and profitability improvement initiatives.
• Provide insights and recommendations for improving efficiency and guest satisfaction.

Qualifications/Skills

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field (CPA or CMA preferred).
• 3–5 years of experience in a financial/controller role, preferably within the hospitality or food and beverage industry.
• Strong knowledge of financial systems, cost accounting, and ERP systems (e.g., Oracle, SAP, or restaurant POS/BOH systems).
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel and other MS Office tools.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Fast‑paced, customer‑focused food and beverage environment.
• May require occasional evenings, weekends, or holiday work, depending on business needs.

Why Join Sodexo Live!?

At Sodexo Live!, we're proud to be experience makers, creating unforgettable moments for people across a wide range of industries and events. We bring that same commitment to our team members by offering a comprehensive benefits package that begins on day one, additional benefits include:

• Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Coverage
• Identity Theft Protection
• Adoption Assistance

Sodexo Live! is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, status as a protected veteran or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable Federal, State or Local law.