Hotel General Manager

The general manager is the most senior executive of a hotel or motel, although they might report to the owner or executives of the parent hotel chain. They set room rates, develop the budget for each department, approve expenses, and establish the standards for service to guests. The general manager also has responsibility for front of the house operations, setting standards, and overseeing restaurant and banquet operations, guest services, housekeeping, and décor.

Duties

  • Establish objectives for the company and formulate or approve policies and programs
  • Authorize and organize the establishment of major departments and associated senior staff positions
  • Allocate material, human, and financial resources to implement organizational policies and programs
  • Establish financial and administrative controls
  • Formulate and approve promotional campaigns
  • Approve overall personnel planning
  • Select middle managers, directors, or other executive staff
  • Coordinate the work of regions, divisions, or departments
  • Represent the company, or delegate representatives to act on behalf of the company, in negotiations or other official functions

Experience

Useful skills are leadership, entrepreneurship skills, and communication skills. In addition, planning and budgeting experience, business management skills, and time management skills are all assets to this position.

Education

A college diploma or university degree in hotel management or a related field is required for a hotel chain or other large organization. Significant experience may replace formal education. Professional Certification as a Hotel General Manager is an asset. Learn more about occupational standards, training, and certification on emerit.ca.