Hotel General Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling hospitality industry, the role of a hotel general manager has never been more pivotal.

As the industry evolves, the demand for highly skilled professionals who can manage, enhance, and safeguard our hotel operations increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a hotel general manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the ideal candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of hotel management,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable hotel general manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Hotel General Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Hotel General Managers oversee all aspects of a hotel’s operations, from guest services to daily operations, to ensure a high level of service and an exceptional guest experience.

Their responsibilities and duties include:

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the hotel, ensuring all departments are functioning smoothly
• Set and implement policies and procedures for the hotel
• Manage budgets, financial plans, and control costs
• Hire, train and monitor the performance of all hotel staff
• Ensure compliance with licensing laws, health and safety, and other statutory regulations
• Coordinate with external vendors and service providers
• Monitor the quality of the hotel’s services and amenities, and initiate improvements as needed
• Resolve customer complaints and issues in a timely and professional manner
• Develop and implement marketing strategies to promote the hotel and its services
• Prepare detailed reports on the hotel’s business performance
• Conduct regular meetings with department heads to discuss and review operational issues and trends

 

Hotel General Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a seasoned Hotel General Manager to oversee all staff, budgets, and operations of the local business unit.

The General Manager’s responsibilities include managing between departments and resolving issues, ensuring guest satisfaction and safety, and hiring and training staff.

Our ideal candidates are experienced hospitality professionals who can inspire and lead their team to consistently deliver top-notch customer service.

Ultimately, the role of the Hotel General Manager is to ensure our hotel meets and exceeds guest expectations while also driving the hotel’s profitability.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan and manage all hotel operations to achieve customer satisfaction, quality service, compliance with corporate policies and maximize profit
• Develop and implement business strategies for the hotel
• Prepare budgets and monitor revenues and expenses
• Interview, hire, train, guide, and manage hotel personnel
• Resolve customer complaints to maintain high customer satisfaction rates
• Inspect hotel premises to ensure they meet safety and cleanliness standards
• Maintain relations with outside contacts such as guests, regulatory agencies, competitors, and other members of the local community

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a Hotel General Manager or similar role
• Experience with hotel management software and Point of Sale (POS) systems
• Solid understanding of hospitality procedures and best practices
• Knowledge of hotel operations, including marketing, housekeeping, and guest relations
• Ability to effectively manage and motivate staff
• Strong business acumen with a strategic ability to analyze market trends and competitor activity
• BSc degree in Hotel Management, Hospitality, Business Administration or relevant field

 

Benefits

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

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Hotel General Manager
• Work Environment: Hotel setting. Schedule varies and often includes evenings, weekends, and holidays. Some travel may be required for corporate meetings or events.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Regional Manager or Hotel Owner.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 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 Hotel General Manager Do?

A Hotel General Manager is primarily responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a hotel to ensure smooth running and high levels of customer satisfaction.

They have numerous duties, including managing hotel staff and coordinating all hotel operations.

This could involve everything from housekeeping and front desk services to maintenance and finances.

Part of their role is to set and achieve sales and profit targets, and reduce costs.

They also ensure that health and safety regulations are met.

Hotel General Managers are responsible for recruiting, training, and supervising staff.

They monitor employee performance, ensuring that the team is delivering a high standard of service and working efficiently.

They also work closely with customers, dealing with complaints and queries, ensuring they have a positive stay and encouraging repeat business.

Furthermore, they oversee the planning and organization of hotel services, promotional activities, and events.

This could involve liaising with in-house teams or outside agencies, arranging entertainment, and overseeing the preparation of rooms and facilities.

Ultimately, the goal of a Hotel General Manager is to create a welcoming, comfortable, and well-maintained environment for guests.

 

Hotel General Manager Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Hotel General Manager should possess qualifications and skills that meet the demands of the role, including:

• Exceptional leadership and management skills to oversee all operations and employees in the hotel.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively interact with guests, employees, and stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of hotel management software, and ability to analyze and interpret financial information for budgeting and forecasting.
• Ability to ensure that all services meet the highest possible standards, and to implement and monitor procedures for guest safety and comfort.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build and maintain relationships with guests, encouraging repeat business.
• Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills to handle guest or staff complaints and issues efficiently and effectively.
• Proven customer service experience with a focus on creating an exceptional guest experience.
• Ability to multitask and manage multiple operations simultaneously.
• Sound knowledge of local laws, regulations and guidelines related to hotel operations.
• Financial acumen to oversee budgeting, reporting, planning and auditing.
• Experience in strategic planning and business development.

 

Hotel General Manager Experience Requirements

Hotel General Managers are typically expected to have a significant amount of experience in the hospitality industry, often ranging from 5 to 10 years.

Most Hotel General Managers start their careers in entry-level hospitality roles such as Front Desk Associate, Guest Services Agent, or even Housekeeping roles.

This offers them a comprehensive understanding of hotel operations and services from the ground up.

Many General Managers often progress in their career by assuming managerial roles like Front Office Manager, Rooms Division Manager, or Hotel Operations Manager.

These roles give them the opportunity to gain experience in managing a team and overseeing various hotel departments.

Some hotels, particularly large-scale or luxury hotels, may require their General Managers to have experience in multiple properties or in different geographical locations.

This broad experience can provide a deeper understanding of diverse guest needs and market trends.

Additionally, it is also beneficial for a Hotel General Manager to have experience with financial management, sales, and marketing, as these aspects are integral to the role.

This can be gained through specific training programs or through relevant roles within the hospitality industry.

Those with over 10 years of experience, having dealt with complex challenges, and have demonstrated leadership abilities are usually considered for senior management roles or for managing high-end luxury hotels.

 

Hotel General Manager Education and Training Requirements

To become a Hotel General Manager, a bachelor’s degree in hospitality, hotel management, or a related field is typically required.

This degree program teaches prospective managers about hotel administration, food service management, accommodation management, and marketing.

In addition to a bachelor’s degree, many hotels prefer candidates with a master’s degree in business administration or a related field.

This higher-level education provides training in business operations, finance, and strategic planning.

Work experience is also critical in the hospitality industry.

Many Hotel General Managers have worked their way up from entry-level roles, gaining experience in various departments.

Industry-specific certifications can also be beneficial for those looking to advance.

The Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA) is one such certification offered by the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute.

Many hotel chains also offer management training programs which can be an alternative or supplement to formal education.

Overall, becoming a Hotel General Manager requires a combination of education, relevant work experience, and often additional industry-specific certifications.

 

Hotel General Manager Salary Expectations

A Hotel General Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $53,837 (USD) per year.

However, this figure can fluctuate based on the size of the hotel, location, and the individual’s level of experience and qualifications.

 

Hotel General Manager Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Hotel General Manager need?

Hotel General Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in hospitality or hotel management.

Experience in the hotel industry, especially in managerial roles, is also essential.

Some establishments might require their general managers to have a master’s degree in business administration.

Additionally, skills in customer service, leadership, and financial management are crucial for this role.

 

What are the key responsibilities of a Hotel General Manager?

A Hotel General Manager is responsible for the overall operation of a hotel.

They oversee all departments, from the front desk and housekeeping to the kitchen and security.

Their duties include setting and achieving financial objectives, managing budgets, setting room rates, coordinating with vendors, hiring and training staff, ensuring customer satisfaction, and implementing company policies and regulations.

 

What skills make a successful Hotel General Manager?

A successful Hotel General Manager should possess excellent leadership and communication skills.

They should be able to lead a diverse team and communicate effectively with both staff and guests.

Problem-solving skills are also important as they will need to address any issues that arise in the hotel.

Good financial acumen is crucial for managing budgets and setting financial goals.

Lastly, customer service skills are essential to ensure guest satisfaction.

 

How can one become a Hotel General Manager?

Usually, one starts at an entry-level position in the hospitality industry and works their way up to a managerial role.

Gaining experience in various hotel departments is beneficial.

Earning a degree in hospitality or hotel management can also be advantageous.

Some large hotel chains have management training programs that can lead to a general manager position.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Hotel General Manager?

Finding the right candidate for a Hotel General Manager role can be challenging due to the broad range of skills and experience required for the role.

A candidate must not only have industry experience and relevant qualifications, but they must also possess leadership skills, financial acumen, and excellent customer service skills.

Therefore, it’s important to have a comprehensive hiring process to identify the best candidate for the job.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve revealed the ins and outs of being a Hotel General Manager.

And guess what?

It’s not just about managing a hotel.

It’s about creating unforgettable experiences, one guest at a time.

With our comprehensive Hotel General Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re poised to take your next step.

But why stop there?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to resource for crafting precise job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every detail contributes to the bigger picture of guest satisfaction.

Let’s create those unforgettable experiences. Together.

How to Become a Hotel General Manager (Complete Guide)

The Great Escape: Remote Jobs That Pay Better Than Your Office Gig!

Rethink Your Career Path: Top Jobs with Alarmingly Low Wages

The Unwanted List: Jobs That Are a Hard Pass for Many

Coveted Careers: The Most Prestigious Jobs in the Market