Title: Controller/ Head of Finance

Reports to: VP of Operations

Department: Operations

Job type: Full-Time Position

About Art of Living Retreat Center:

The Art of Living Retreat Center, nestled in the picturesque mountains of Boone, North Carolina, is a premier destination for individuals seeking personal growth, wellness, and rejuvenation. Our center offers a range of transformative programs, workshops, and retreats that integrate yoga, meditation, holistic health, and spiritual wisdom. We are dedicated to providing a serene and supportive environment where guests can experience a profound sense of well-being and self-discovery.

Position Summary:

The Controller will be responsible for the integrity of all financial operations, including budgeting, reporting, compliance, departmental P&Ls, and coordination with department heads. You will oversee accounting systems (QuickBooks), financial planning, and audit readiness while building scalable practices for a multi-department retreat operation.

Key Responsibilities:

- Own the general ledger and manage all accounting operations

- Lead monthly financial reporting and analysis for leadership

- Manage AP/AR, revenue reconciliation, and retreat-level profitability

- Collaborate with department heads on budgeting, forecasts, and cost management

- Ensure timely financial close and monthly reconciliation

- Coordinate annual audit and tax filings with external CPA

- Oversee integration with other systems (Shopify, Retreat Guru, Booker, etc.)

- Evaluate financial systems and implement best practices and automations

- Develop and maintain relationships with banking, insurance and accounting departments

of other organizations to facilitate financial activities

- Oversee payroll processing in partnership with Paychex

Qualifications:

- Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field

- 5+ years of accounting or finance leadership (hospitality, nonprofit or wellness preferred)

- Strong proficiency in QuickBooks and Excel/Google Sheets

- Analytical mindset and detail orientation

- Familiarity with class-based accounting and cost center reporting

- CPA preferred but not required

Preferred but not required:

• Experience in or deep hands-on knowledge of the wellness industry, including meditation, breathwork, yoga and Ayurveda.

Benefits

• Subsidized health/dental insurance after 90 days
• Paid vacation and sick time after 90 Days
• 401k enrollment after 1 year
• Discounts and complimentary access to our signature programs and activities
• Opportunity to live and work in a beautiful and serene environment

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Dental insurance
• Employee discount
• Health insurance
• Paid time off

Ability to Commute:

• Boone, NC 28607 (Required)

Ability to Relocate:

• Boone, NC 28607: Relocate before starting work (Required)

Work Location: In person