Controller/ Head of Finance

Based onsite in Boone, NC, The Art of Living Retreat Center seeks a Controller / Head of Finance to steer the financial operations of a multi‑department retreat center. You will oversee budgeting, reporting, audits, and the QuickBooks accounting system, working closely with department heads to align financial strategy with program goals. This role offers the chance to live and work in a beautiful, serene environment while building scalable finance practices that support a diverse range of programs.

Benefits and culture

• Subsidized health and dental insurance after 90 days
• Paid vacation and sick leave after 90 days
• 401(k) enrollment after 1 year
• Discounts and complimentary access to signature programs and activities
• Opportunity to live and work in a beautiful and serene environment
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid time off
• Employee discounts

Position summary

The Controller / Head of Finance ensures the integrity of all financial operations across the organization, including budgeting, reporting, compliance, and departmental P&Ls, with coordination across department heads. You will manage QuickBooks accounting, financial planning, and audit readiness, while implementing scalable practices for a multi‑department retreat operation.

Responsibilities

• Own and manage the general ledger and all accounting activities
• Direct monthly financial reporting and analysis for leadership
• Oversee accounts payable and accounts receivable, revenue reconciliation, and retreat‑level profitability
• Partner with department heads on budgeting, forecasts, and cost control
• Ensure timely month‑end close and monthly reconciliations
• Coordinate annual audits and tax filings with external CPA firms
• Manage integrations with systems such as Shopify, Retreat Guru, and Booker
• Evaluate financial systems and implement best practices and automation
• Build and maintain relationships with banking, insurance, and partner accounting teams to support financial activities
• Oversee payroll processing in partnership with Paychex

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field
• Minimum 5 years of accounting or finance leadership experience (hospitality, nonprofit, or wellness preferred)
• Strong proficiency in QuickBooks and Excel or Google Sheets
• Analytical mindset with meticulous attention to detail
• Familiarity with class‑based accounting and cost center reporting
• CPA certification preferred but not required

Technologies

• QuickBooks
• Excel
• Google Sheets
• Shopify
• Retreat Guru
• Booker
• Paychex

Preferred but not required

• Experience or hands‑on knowledge of the wellness industry, including meditation, breathwork, yoga, and Ayurveda