What does the job involve?
As General Manager, you'll be responsible for every aspect of the hotel, ensuring that guests enjoy their stay, all staff work together as an effective team, and the business makes a profit.
Many General Managers make a special point of meeting all guests, not just the VIPs. Often, complaints end up with the General Manager.
A lot of your time will be spent in meetings, including with your heads of department, and at your desk dealing with development and marketing plans, and financial and statistical data.
Key responsibilities
As General Manager you'll be responsible for a large number of activities including:
- recruiting and training heads of department and other key staff
- setting budgets and forecasts, and controlling the finances
- planning and overseeing improvements
- putting together a business plan
- purchasing and stock control
- marketing and sales
- maintenance
- the health and safety of everyone on the premises, including food safety, upholding licensing laws, consumer protection and employment legislation
- reporting to head office (if it's a group hotel)
In smaller hotels, you'll be expected to support your staff when they are under pressure. Day-to-day activities may include:
- making reservations
- receiving guests
- helping with the preparation and service of meals and drinks
In larger hotels, you have department managers to ensure the smooth running of the kitchen, restaurant, bars, housekeeping, banqueting, reception, sales and marketing, personnel and training functions.
What skills do I need?
You'll usually have previous senior management experience with:
- Strong leadership skills and the ability to think strategically: these are essential to providing the management required at this level.
- Excellent communication and inter-personal skills: for when you're dealing with your staff and customers. Complaints will often end up with you.
In addition, you'll need the varied skills required to carry out your main responsibilities on a practical level.
What qualifications do I need?
Often, the General Manager will have worked in senior management positions in other hotels. Experience of all departments may be useful, but not required. Larger hotel companies will often provide relevant training programmes for prospective General Managers.
Is it the right job for me?
To be a successful General Manager, you'll need to demonstrate you have what it takes to head-up a dedicated team to provide quality services to your guests. You'll usually need experience at senior management level, where you have led a team effectively and made a profit for the business.