Hotel Manager
Tasks & duties
Hotel operational managers oversee the day-to-day running of a hotel. General managers make long-term plans for the hotel.
Depending on the size of the hotel, operational managers may do some or all of the following:
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hire and train new staff
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handle requests and complaints from guests
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keep records, plan budgets and deal with accounts
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advertise the hotel and deal with tour operators
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supervise the day-to-day running of the hotel
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greet guests
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take bookings and allocate rooms
General managers may do some or all of the above as well as:
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devise and implement the hotel's business plan
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create and implement a marketing plan for the hotel
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devise ways to anticipate and respond to a changing tourist market
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plan for the recruitment and management of the hotel's workforce
Skills & knowledge
Hotel managers need to have:
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good leadership skills
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excellent communication and people skills
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marketing and business management skills
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knowledge of health and safety regulations, and liquor licensing regulations
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knowledge of local tourist attractions
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knowledge of the needs and customs of other cultures
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planning and organisational skills
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administrative and financial skills
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decision-making ability
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computing skills
Entry requirements
To become a hotel operations manager it is recommended you gain a National Certificate in Hospitality or a degree in hospitality management.
To become a hotel general manager you will need a degree in business studies, hotel management or another related qualification such as a marketing degree.
Secondary education
There are no specific secondary education requirements to become a hotel manager, although a tertiary entrance qualification is required to enter further training. Useful subjects include English, accounting, economics and computer studies.
Training on the job
Hotel managers work their way up through the ranks, gaining skills and knowledge of the hotel industry. Most of the large hotel chains operate NZQA accredited courses in hospitality, and managers can work towards the Diploma in Hospitality Management while working in a hotel.
Large hotel chains usually offer professional development to potential managers, including trainee management programmes.
Useful Experience
Useful experience for hotel managers includes:
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work in the hotel, motel or catering industry
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work in sales and marketing
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any work requiring good communication skills
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Operations and general managers have often gained supervisory or management experience in the hotel industry, by working in roles such as food and beverage manager or executive housekeeper
Related courses
Business Management
Hospitality
Hospitality Management
Tourism Management
Tourism Studies
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
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