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About Orient Express
Orient Express embodies the refined and nomadic spirit of travel. Its exceptional portfolio includes experiences such asthe iconic carriages reimagined as a modern‑day tribute to French luxury; the Orient Express Sailing Yachts, including the world’s largest sailing yacht; La Dolce Vita Orient Express, a train celebrating the elegance of Italian art de vivre; and a collection of luxury hotels, including Orient Express La Minerva in Rome and the soon‑to‑open Orient Express Palazzo Donà Giovannelli in Venice.
While redefining the future of luxury hospitality, Orient Express places particular emphasis on the employee experience, development, and engagement. As a symbol of ultra‑luxury hospitality, the brand is currently undergoing an ambitious phase of rebirth and expansion accelerated since 2024 as a Joint Venture between ACCOR and LVMH. Orient Express aims to become a pioneer of contemporary luxury hospitality, creating immersive experiences that combine exceptional design, impeccable service, culinary excellence, wellness offerings, cutting‑edge technology, sustainability, and authentic local experiences, while also actively engaging in local community initiatives and supporting social causes.
La Dolce Vita Orient Express
La Dolce Vita Orient Express is the first Italian luxury cruise on rail, offering a unique travel experience across the country. Inspired by the golden age of railway tourism, the train features itineraries connecting Italy’s major cities and destinations, providing passengers with top‑class service, exceptional comfort, gourmet cuisine, and a refined atmosphere. The project aims to celebrate the charm and beauty of Italy, making each journey an unforgettable experience.
Job Description
Reporting to the General Manager and working closely with the Orient Express Management Company and the Asset Owner Finance teams, the Director of Finance is part of the Executive Committee. He/She supports the decisions, choices, search for quality, and results of the executive and operational departments by always maintaining a respectful approach to the Orient Express procedures. The Director of Finance will assist the Executive Team in delivering business plans and integrating the business wherever possible, optimizing operating costs and capitalizing on cross‑pollination of business opportunities. The Director of Finance will also provide strategic support to their team and to the Leadership Team to ensure the delivery of Orient Express La Dolce Vita’s (LDV) service standards, guest experience excellence, and maximum operating results.
Roles And Responsibilities
Accounting and Controlling Activities

Management of the Finance functions (Income Audit, Payroll, Cash/Bank Control, Accounts Receivable, Accounts Payable), Purchasing functions and other teams.
Develop and implement scalable financial processes and controls, ensuring strong financial governance as the company grows.
Preparation of departmental strategies and establishment of effective goals.
Preparation of the Finance Departments’ measures and action plans related to: Colleague Engagement, Guest Experience, Revenue, Financial reporting, ALL Loyalty Program, Purchasing goal, IT key metrics, etc.
Preparation of monthly management accounts including USALI Profit and Loss Account, Balance Sheet and Cash Flow, Inventory, and weekly financial reports including forecasting of profits, cash and payroll.
Preparation for the audits, VAT and payroll taxes, including compliance with payment deadlines.
Supervision of the year‑end financial closing as per local requirements.
Working closely with the wider team to ensure a functional understanding of departmental financial reporting and other metrics including hospitality KPIs and P&Ls.

Business Strategy

Actively participate in the development of business strategies aligned with the La Dolce Vita Orient Express vision, mission, and business objectives.
Actively develop a growth strategy.

Business Plans & Budgets

Responsible for the preparation and follow‑up of the annual budget.
Monitor progress and present financial metrics internally and externally.

Commercial Insight

In collaboration with the Commercial and Revenue Management functions, analyze commercial operations and competitive trends to establish short‑, medium‑, and long‑term strategies and tactical recommendations.
Provide the management, Brand and Owner with business objectives, analyses of business performance, and highlights of key issues and opportunities.
Constantly monitor the latest industry trends, innovative products, and service opportunities.
Present implementation plans to the Senior Leadership when applicable.
Ensure good communication of finance information and maintain excellent relationships with all hospitality stakeholders (Orient Express, Owners and third parties).

Specific Business Proposals

Assess the benefits of all prospective spends and contracts and advise the General Manager, Orient Express and Owners on program design and implementation matters. Such proposals may involve CAPEX activity, legal, financial and other advisors if needed.
Implement and maintain financial systems and automation tools (ERP software) to streamline reporting, payments and compliance, ensuring efficiency at scale.

People Management

Oversee the selection and recruitment of LDV Finance positions in line with Orient Express’ Leadership Capability Framework, Recruitment Charter, and related processes.
Develop a strong team through consistent effective leadership, training, operational management and succession planning.
Foster a winning, solution‑oriented work environment, motivating and engaging colleagues to continuously deliver the best possible standards of work.
Promote an open environment, thanks to ongoing feedback and coaching for better performance.
Coach and mentor finance colleagues.
Identify key financial drivers to enhance the value‑creation capability of the trains.
Take an entrepreneurial approach by continuously looking for areas for improvement with innovative solutions, initiating and leading change, and looking for opportunities to generate revenue across the trains.

Qualifications
Knowledge and Experience

A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business, or a related field is required (an advanced degree such as an MBA is highly recommended) together with professional accounting qualifications e.g., ACCA, CPA, and strategic knowledge of the hospitality business and financial management.
Minimum of 5‑years’ experience as Hospitality Director of Finance with:

Proven extensive experience in a similar financial leadership role within the hospitality industry, in an ultra‑luxury hotel / train setting.
In‑depth knowledge of the ultra‑luxury hospitality market, including a strong understanding of industry trends, market dynamics, and competitive landscape.
Comprehensive knowledge of financial management systems, procedures, and reporting standards specific to the hospitality industry (USALI).

Experience in managing financial audits, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements, and maintaining accurate financial records.
Knowledge of Hospitality IT systems.
Fluent in Italian and English (French is a plus).

Competencies

Proven ability to lead and develop a high‑performing finance team, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and collaboration.
Good presenting and influencing skills.
Ability to work in international contexts, matrix environments, and to deal with ambiguity.
Strong organizational/project management skills with high attention to detail.
Strong team‑working skills and ability to work efficiently.
Proven ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast‑paced environment, managing multiple priorities and meeting tight deadlines and high level of quality.
Ability and self‑motivation to work autonomously.
Demonstrated commitment to maintaining the highest ethical standards and confidentiality when handling financial information.

Seniority level

Director

Employment type

Full‑time

Job function

Finance and Sales
Hospitality

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