Power and the Hotel Controller's Role

Abstract

Organizational structure places limits on managerial roles, although the current interest in leadership often presumes that personal attributes are the basis forpower and influence rather than position. Hotel controllers find their power in the central role they play in the hotel's information network. It is the extent of their involvement in decision making that permits them to wield influence and exercise leadership. This research surveyed the extent to which hotel controllers in large independent hotels and small chains and their superiors and peers believe they should be involved in representative strategic, accounting assessment and non-financial decisions. The findings indicate moderate disagreement in strategic and accountinglassessment functions. Some ambiguity attends all managerial work roles, but moderate dis agreement suggests that controllers perform decisional roles that circumscribe their opportunity to exercise leadership. Key words: Hotel/Hospitality Controller, Hotel/ Hospitality Management, Power, Decision Making, ManagementRole.