General Manager, Hospitality Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of hospitality, the role of a General Manager has never been more crucial.

As the industry evolves, the demand for skillful leaders who can orchestrate, oversee, and uphold the standards of our hospitality infrastructures heightens.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a General Manager in hospitality?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to decode the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager drafting the profile of the ideal candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the dynamics of hospitality management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a fully customizable General Manager, Hospitality job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

General Manager, Hospitality Duties and Responsibilities

General Managers in the hospitality industry take on a leadership role in establishments like hotels, restaurants, and resort properties.

They are responsible for overseeing daily operations, improving business performance, and ensuring a high level of customer service.

General Managers in hospitality have the following duties and responsibilities:

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the hotel or restaurant
• Ensure the establishment is in compliance with health and safety regulations
• Develop strategies to improve customer service, drive business growth, and increase profitability
• Hire, train, and supervise staff members
• Review and analyze financial data to inform business decisions
• Manage customer complaints and issues, ensuring a high level of customer satisfaction
• Coordinate with different department heads to ensure smooth operation
• Plan and implement marketing strategies to promote the business
• Manage budgets and financial plans, and control expenditure
• Regularly review and update policies and protocols

 

General Manager, Hospitality Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced General Manager to oversee operations at our hospitality establishment.

The role involves coordinating staff, handling administrative duties, and ensuring the highest level of customer satisfaction.

Our ideal candidate possesses proven leadership skills, ability to deal with stress and stay calm in difficult situations, and excellent problem-solving abilities.

A degree in Hospitality Management or a related field would be advantageous.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily operations and make adjustments as needed
• Recruit, train, and supervise staff
• Ensure customer satisfaction and maintain high service standards
• Develop, implement, and review operational policies and procedures
• Manage budget and financial plans and control expenditure
• Address customer inquiries and complaints promptly
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations
• Manage contracts and negotiations with vendors, agencies, and clients
• Stay current with trends and best practices in the hospitality industry

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a General Manager in the hospitality industry
• Strong understanding of hotel management best practices and relevant laws and guidelines
• Working knowledge of MS Office; knowledge of hotel management software is a plus
• Excellent customer service skills as well as a business mindset
• Demonstrable aptitude in decision-making and problem-solving
• Outstanding leadership skills and a great attention to detail
• Degree in Business Administration, Hotel/Hospitality Management or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: General Manager, Hospitality
• Work Environment: This position requires direct, hands-on management at a hospitality property. This can include long hours, weekends, and holidays.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Regional Manager or Director of Operations.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $70,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a General Manager, Hospitality Do?

General Managers in the hospitality industry typically work for hotels, resorts, restaurants, or similar establishments.

They hold a leadership role, and their primary responsibility is to ensure the smooth operation of the establishment, providing the best possible guest experience.

They oversee the daily operations, which can range from staff management, budgeting and finance, to food and beverage service, housekeeping, and guest services.

They are responsible for hiring and training staff, setting standards for customer service, and handling any issues that may arise.

In addition to managing internal operations, General Managers in hospitality also interact with guests to understand their needs and expectations, resolve any complaints, and ensure overall customer satisfaction.

They also collaborate with other department heads to ensure all areas of the establishment are working together seamlessly.

General Managers in hospitality also play a significant role in business planning and strategy.

They analyze financial data and performance, set and manage budgets, plan for future growth or changes, and make decisions about pricing and services offered.

They are also responsible for ensuring that the establishment complies with health and safety regulations and any other relevant laws or regulations.

 

General Manager, Hospitality Qualifications and Skills

A competent General Manager in the hospitality sector should possess the following skills and qualifications that align with your job requirements:

• Proven leadership skills to manage, train, and motivate a diverse team to deliver excellent customer service and meet operational targets.
• Experience in strategic planning and business development in order to grow the business and boost profitability.
• Ability to use hospitality management software and other related technologies for efficient administration and effective decision-making.
• Excellent interpersonal skills to engage with guests, address their needs and complaints, and create a comfortable and enjoyable environment.
• Strong financial acumen to manage budgets, control costs, and analyze financial data for decision-making.
• Well-developed communication skills to effectively interact with staff, guests, vendors, and stakeholders.
• Understanding of hospitality laws, health and safety regulations to ensure compliance and manage risks.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly address and resolve issues that might affect guest satisfaction or business operations.

 

General Manager, Hospitality Experience Requirements

The General Manager in the hospitality industry typically needs a minimum of 5 years of managerial experience in the field.

This can be gained through managing smaller departments within a hotel or other hospitality establishment, such as food and beverage, front office or rooms division.

To become eligible for this position, an individual might start their career in an entry-level role in the hospitality industry, such as a receptionist or waiter, to understand the basic operations of the industry.

They can then progress to supervisory positions, and eventually to departmental manager roles, where they gain the necessary managerial experience.

While on-the-job experience is essential, many General Managers also hold a bachelor’s degree in hotel management, business administration, or a related field.

This formal education helps them acquire the theoretical knowledge required for the position.

Candidates with more than 10 years of experience in the hospitality industry often have a deep understanding of all aspects of hotel operations and have the ability to oversee large teams.

They also have experience in strategic planning, budgeting, and have a proven record of increasing operational efficiency.

In some cases, high-end or luxury establishments might require their General Managers to have experience in similar settings, emphasizing the importance of understanding the specific needs of their clientele.

Experience in customer service is also crucial as General Managers often need to interact with guests, address their concerns, and ensure they have a positive experience.

This role also requires excellent leadership skills, as General Managers are responsible for leading and motivating their team.

 

General Manager, Hospitality Education and Training Requirements

General Managers in the hospitality industry generally require a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, business administration, or a related field.

This degree program equips them with the necessary business and management skills required to handle the daily operations of hotels, resorts, or restaurants.

Subjects typically include food service management, hospitality law, marketing, and business finance.

In addition to academic qualifications, hands-on experience is highly valued in this industry.

Many General Managers start off in entry-level positions within the hospitality industry and gradually work their way up, gaining valuable on-the-job experience.

Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in hospitality management or a related field, especially for larger or more upscale establishments.

These advanced programs provide deeper knowledge of the industry and equip professionals with the strategic planning skills necessary for managing large-scale operations.

Certifications, while not mandatory, can also be beneficial.

Organizations such as the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute offer certifications for hospitality managers, which can demonstrate a candidate’s dedication and expertise in the industry.

Leadership and communication skills, along with the ability to multitask and handle stressful situations, are critical traits that are often honed through practical experience in the field.

 

General Manager, Hospitality Salary Expectations

The average salary for a General Manager in the Hospitality industry is $61,485 (USD) per year.

However, this salary can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, location, and the size and prestige of the hospitality establishment.

 

General Manager, Hospitality Job Description FAQs

What skills does a General Manager in Hospitality need?

General Managers in Hospitality require excellent leadership and decision-making skills to oversee all operations effectively.

They should possess strong interpersonal and communication skills for customer service, staff management and liaising with suppliers.

Financial acumen, strategic planning, and a deep understanding of the hospitality industry are essential.

They should also have a knack for problem-solving and crisis management.

 

Do General Managers in Hospitality need a degree?

While not always required, having a degree in hospitality management, business administration, or a related field can be beneficial for a General Manager in Hospitality.

Practical experience is often highly valued, and many General Managers have worked their way up from other positions within the hospitality industry.

Some larger establishments may require a master’s degree in business administration or hospitality management.

 

What should you look for in a General Manager, Hospitality resume?

Look for a blend of relevant education and practical experience in the hospitality industry.

A good General Manager resume should show a clear progression into management roles.

Experience in budgeting, staff management, and customer service are important.

Any certifications or additional training related to hospitality management can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good General Manager in Hospitality?

A good General Manager in Hospitality should be a strong leader, able to motivate and manage a team effectively.

They should have excellent communication skills, both for dealing with staff and for providing excellent customer service.

They should also be organized and detail-oriented, able to keep track of many different tasks and issues at once.

A passion for the hospitality industry and a commitment to providing exceptional guest experiences are also key.

 

What are the challenges of hiring a General Manager in Hospitality?

Finding a General Manager with the right blend of leadership, industry knowledge, and customer service skills can be challenging.

It can also be difficult to find candidates with the necessary experience in handling the financial and strategic planning aspects of the role.

In addition, the hospitality industry often requires long and irregular hours, which can deter some candidates.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve taken a deep dive into the exciting and fast-paced role of a General Manager in the hospitality industry.

And guess what?

It’s not just about booking rooms and organizing events.

It’s about orchestrating unforgettable experiences, one reservation at a time.

With our comprehensive General Manager, Hospitality job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why stop there?

Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting detailed job listings or perfecting your resume to a tee.

Remember:

Every reservation is a piece of a larger, unforgettable experience.

Let’s create those experiences. Together.

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