GuestReady is a leading short-term rental and hospitality services management company, operating in the UK, France, Portugal, Spain, and the UAE. Since our founding in 2016, we’ve aimed to revolutionize the short-term rental industry through innovative technology and a dedication to exceptional hospitality.
We’re now looking for a Cost Controller to join our Finance team in Porto — someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, is obsessed with efficiency, and is ready to make a tangible impact on our operations and profitability.
This role goes beyond traditional accounting. You’ll be a strategic partner in cost optimisation, identifying inefficiencies, improving processes, and working closely with Operations to drive results.
You’ll manage 1 direct report, be hands-on with invoice processing, and play a key role in centralising global AP processes as Portugal’s systems evolve.
🛠️ Key Responsibilities
💰 Cost Management: Monitor operational & fixed costs, track against budgets, analyse variances, and provide actionable insights for efficiency gains.
📅 Budgeting & Forecasting: Assist in preparing annual budgets & forecasts, identifying risks and opportunities early.
🧾 Invoice & Month-End: Process and verify invoices, manage month-end close (journal entries, accruals, reconciliations).
🔄 Process Improvement: Lead initiatives to streamline workflows, remove bottlenecks, and introduce automation locally & globally.
👥 Team Leadership: Mentor one direct report, manage workloads, and foster a positive team environment.
📈 Profitability Analysis: Work with revenue & operations teams to boost property portfolio profitability.
🤝 Vendor Management: Support procurement with data for negotiations.
📊 Reporting & Communication: Produce accurate reports, explain complex financials in plain language, and support audits.
🎯 What You’ll Bring
🎓 Education: Bachelor’s in Accounting, Finance, Business, or related field.
🏆 Experience: 3–5 years in cost control, financial analysis, or strategic finance (hospitality/property sector ideal). Previous management of at least one direct report.
💻 Technical Skills: Advanced Excel (pivot tables, formulas, macros, modelling), ERP/accounting systems, strong cost accounting & budgeting knowledge.
📅 Month-End Expertise: Proven record of managing cost-side month-end processes.
🔍 Process Mindset: Track record in process improvement (Lean/Six Sigma a plus).
🌍 Languages: Fluent in English & Portuguese.
🤝 Soft Skills: Excellent communicator, relationship builder, organised, proactive, and results-driven.
Why You'll Love Working with Us:
- 🏡 Hybrid work flexibility (1-2 days/week in Porto).
- 🚀 Join a fast-growing company in the booming travel industry.
- 🌍 Work in a dynamic, multicultural team.
- 📚 Opportunities for learning and career development.
- 🏥 Comprehensive health insurance.
- 🧘 Focus on wellbeing with supportive activities.
- 🐾 Pet-friendly office!
We’re excited to hear from you and discover how you can contribute to our journey!
Diversity and Inclusion
At GuestReady, we celebrate diversity and are proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. Our global team thrives on mutual respect and inclusion, valuing the unique talents and perspectives of all individuals. We warmly welcome applicants from all backgrounds, regardless of race, gender, religion, sexual orientation, disability, age, or culture
