Hotel General Manager Career Guide

Now that you have the skills, experience and leadership, it’s time to step up as a Hotel General Manager. This guide discusses what a Hotel General Manager does, earning potential and other industry insights for this role.

If you’re planning on becoming one, we’ve also included tips on how to become a Hotel General Manager.

What Is a Hotel General Manager?

A Hotel General Manager oversees all aspects of hotel operations, collaborating with and guiding Hotel Managers and all other staff. They are in charge of setting the vision and policies of the hotel.

Although the term “Hotel General Manager” is commonly used, this position is also known as Director of Operations, Hotel Director, Resort General Manager (if resort), Hotel President or just General Manager.

What Does a Hotel General Manager Do?

A Hotel General Manager leads the operations of limited and full-service hotel properties to ensure profitability and efficiency. Below are the typical responsibilities of Hotel General Managers.

• Ensure compliance with company policies and standard operating procedures, as well as labor laws and best practices
• Monitor cost control for all departments, including housekeeping, food and beverage operations, etc.
• Inspect different areas of hotel properties for appearance and cleanliness
• Audit daily reports and prepare monthly reports
• Provide timely feedback to department heads and hourly associates
• Guide and work with department heads to meet key performance indicators

For a more in-depth breakdown of the responsibilities of a Hotel General Manager, check out our Hotel General Manager job description.

5 Steps To Become a Hotel General Manager

Here are some steps you can take to increase your chances of getting hired as a Hotel General Manager.

1. Get a bachelor’s degree related to the role

According to CareerOneStop, 35% of all Lodging Managers have a bachelor’s degree. It is also normal for hotels, especially luxury or high-end establishments, to require their Hotel General Managers to have a degree.

[Source: CareerOneStop]
This chart is interactive. Hover your mouse over different parts of the chart to see detailed data. 

Being a Hotel General Manager requires commitment, so starting by committing to a degree is the best first step toward this career. Consider a degree in hospitality, human resources, business, marketing or a related discipline.

2. Work your way up

Don’t avoid lower-level positions. If you’re just starting your hospitality career, be open to entry-level hospitality positions like Host/Hostess, Concierge or even Valet.

You need experience to be a Hotel General Manager, so learn from every role you take before it.

More importantly, remember to be open to leadership role opportunities whenever they arise.

3. Obtain certifications

In addition to experience, grow your value with additional courses and certifications.

Some of these certifications include Certified Hotel Administrator (CHA), Certified Hospitality Trainer (CHT) and Certified Hotel Asset Manager (CHAM), Hotel Management and Owner Relations and Hotel Management.

You can also pick up more skills and knowledge with every program.

4. Record your achievements

Keep detailed records of your accomplishments in each role, including successful projects, improvements in guest satisfaction or increased profitability. For example, include specifics as follows:

• % year-on-year growth
• % increase in guest satisfactions scores
• % reduction in check-in times
• $% increase in sales
• % increase in average daily rates
• % increase in off-peak and peak occupancy rates
• Training programs

Documenting your achievements provides concrete evidence of your capabilities and prepares you for interviews by showcasing your proven track record.

5. Apply for Hotel General Manager positions

Once you have the necessary experience, education and certifications, start applying for Hotel General Manager roles. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your leadership experience, operational successes and relevant achievements.

Prepare for Hotel General Manager interviews by demonstrating your strategic vision, problem-solving skills and ability to manage complex hotel operations effectively.

Hotel General Manager Earning Potential

Hotel General Managers earn, on average, $93,384 per year. This average can differ depending on the specific state or city you’re in.

Regardless of the differences, the Hotel General Manager position is still one of the best-paying jobs in the hospitality industry.

Not to mention, those working in this role often receive monetary incentives (like bonuses and profit sharing) that significantly boost their overall earnings.

Hotel Management Trends in 2024

The number of jobs for Lodging Managers (a category that includes Hotel General Managers) is expected to grow by 7% from 2022 to 2032.

[Source: BLS]

For clarity, there are about 50,800 Lodging Manager jobs in 2022, as per the Bureau of Labor Statistics. A 7% increase would add approximately 3,556 new jobs over the next decade.

Are You Ready To Be a Hotel General Manager?

Think you’re ready to become a Hotel General Manager? Take our quiz below to know if you’re on the right track.

Advice From a Hotel General Manager

Building and maintaining a positive company culture is among the main responsibilities of a Hotel General Manager. That said, let’s hear from Sebastian Ploss, General Manager of Sonesta Hotels, and how he treats his staff, regardless of role.

For the complete interview with Sebastian and more hiring insights, go here.