Chief Accountant

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

The Chief Accountant is responsible for leading the hotel’s accounting function, including financial reporting, budgeting, forecasting, cash and credit control, payroll oversight, audits, taxation and compliance with Shangri-La and Malaysian regulations. Candidates typically need a degree or professional qualification in Accounting or Finance, relevant hotel or hospitality accounting experience, and strong knowledge of Malaysian financial practices. Experience with hotel accounting systems, internal controls and month-end closing is highly valued. The successful candidate should be commercially aware, analytical, ethical and comfortable managing a finance team. Strong communication skills, attention to detail and the ability to work with department heads and senior management are expected.

About the employer

Shangri-La is a leading luxury hospitality group founded in Hong Kong, with hotels, resorts and residences across Asia, the Middle East, Europe, North America and other international markets. The group is recognised for its warm Asian hospitality, high service standards and distinctive properties in city and resort destinations. Shangri-La hotels commonly offer accommodation, restaurants, meeting facilities, spas and leisure experiences, supported by structured operational and professional development programmes. In Malaysia, the company operates well-known properties in destinations including Kuala Lumpur, Penang, Kota Kinabalu and other major travel markets. Employees generally work in a multicultural environment where guest service, integrity, teamwork and attention to detail are strongly emphasised.

Working in Malaysia

Malaysia offers opportunities in hospitality, finance, tourism, technology, healthcare, education and manufacturing. Island and coastal destinations such as Penang, Langkawi, Sabah and parts of Sarawak combine resort employment with a relaxed lifestyle, while Kuala Lumpur provides broader corporate opportunities. Malaysian culture is multicultural, with Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous influences reflected in food, festivals, languages and daily life. Living costs vary: Penang and Langkawi can be moderate, while Kuala Lumpur is usually higher. International professionals generally need an employer-sponsored Employment Pass, and the company normally handles the application and supporting documentation. Dependants may require separate passes. Before relocating, confirm salary, accommodation, medical coverage, tax treatment and transport arrangements. English is widely used in business and hotels, although learning basic Malay is helpful. Weather is tropical, warm and humid year-round, with regional monsoon seasons.