Sleek and sophisticated on the outside, hotel general managers navigate a complex and multifaceted industry from behind the scenes. These professionals serve as the leaders of their establishments, overseeing extensive staff and managing significant revenue streams.

While many of us encounter them occasionally during business trips or vacations, general managers (GMs) hold crucial roles in their respective resorts, guiding teams while handling millions in financial turnover.

The skill set required for these positions is diverse, encompassing asset management, customer relations, finance, sales, and public relations. Thus, it is no surprise that the hospitality sector is currently experiencing a talent gap, as many graduates are opting for careers in sectors such as finance and technology, where the compensation is often higher.

As international career paths become more appealing to new graduates, hospitality is regaining traction as a top choice for individuals seeking global job opportunities.

“It’s a pity that hospitality isn’t widely recognized as a serious and fulfilling career option,” says Kirsten Lord, chief people and culture officer at Corinthia Hotels. “Tourism and hospitality form one of the largest sectors within the UK economy, yet they often lack the investment and focus they truly merit.

“This industry demands commercial understanding, strategic foresight, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Few fields provide such vivid opportunities for individuals passionate about human interaction and crafting unique, memorable experiences for themselves and others.”

In response to the ongoing skills shortage, industry leaders are actively working to reshape perceptions of hospitality careers. Stephen Cassidy, senior vice-president at Hilton UK, highlights the benefits of being a “CEO of your own hospitality business,” emphasizing that GMs are empowered to create their vision, motivate their teams, and enhance performance in a dynamic sector. The role offers a continuous variety of challenges and rapid advancement in strategic, financial, and leadership skills all within one environment.

This need for qualified candidates has resulted in salaries reaching up to £350,000 for GMs at exclusive resorts in the US, while savvy, experienced managers leveraging AI and sustainability practices in the UK can earn as much as £160,000.

What pathways lead to becoming a hotel manager? Beyond specialized hospitality degrees, Cassidy notes the industry welcomes career changers and entry-level workers willing to climb the ranks.

“With appropriate training, resources, and support, a front desk assistant currently juggling university can aspire to become a general manager,” he states. “Few sectors offer such clear avenues for advancement.”

Indeed, hospitality is known for its rapid career advancement, allowing individuals to secure senior roles in less than a decade.

“The beauty of a hotel management career is that one can come from virtually any background,” says Magdalena Eliasz, GM of Hotel Bristol, a luxury Marriott Collection property in Warsaw, Poland. “Whether starting at 20 or switching careers at 40, hotel management imparts leadership skills, empathy, cultural awareness, and the ability to unite people.”

With over 20 years in the industry across various countries, she adds, “This field provides an exceptionally rare opportunity to grow rapidly, gain continuous learning, and make a real human impact daily. It’s more than just employment—it alters how you perceive the world.”

Strategies for Success in Hospitality

Advice from Stephen Cassidy, senior vice-president at Hilton UK.

• Adopt a “yes” mindset: Be receptive to every opportunity, even if they challenge your comfort zone. Roles in front desk operations, housekeeping, event management, finance, or sales can provide broader insights into the industry, enhancing your skill set and paving the way for career progression.

• Understand the business: Outstanding hospitality professionals grasp the business dynamics behind their services. Learn how your decisions can influence revenue, guest satisfaction, and strategic goals. Strategic thinkers are poised to become future leaders.

• Cultivate meaningful connections: Forge authentic relationships within the industry. Mentors, colleagues, and industry leaders can provide invaluable guidance and career opportunities at pivotal moments.

• Stay informed: The hospitality landscape is in constant flux. Stay curious, embrace innovation, and keep up with industry trends. Lifelong learning is vital for a rewarding career.

• Remember, hospitality is about people serving people: Each interaction is an opportunity to embody skills like empathy, active listening, and communication—traits that distinguish you in the field.

Career Journey: From Entry-Level to Management

Nicola Betley serves as the general manager of Hilton’s Birmingham Metropole, making history as the first woman in this position. Initially aspiring to be a lawyer, Betley funded her university education by working in pubs and hotels, sparking her passion for the hospitality sector.

“At just 24, I accepted my first managerial position at a pub—what other field allows such rapid advancement to management?” she shares. “It provided practical, experiential learning in areas like leadership, business operations, finance, HR, sales, and marketing, which are critical foundations for any senior role.”

“One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work is fostering long-term career growth. I began in an entry-level role and have found great satisfaction in helping others achieve the same. While hospitality can be viewed as a temporary job, it holds immense potential for those willing to dedicate themselves.”

Work Week Insights

Maximizing Productivity

A recent study suggests that optimal employee productivity occurs with a 75/33 work-to-break ratio, where employees work for 75 minutes followed by a 33-minute break. According to DeskTime, a productivity monitoring tool, in-office or hybrid work environments support healthier work-life balances compared to fully remote positions. Artis Rozentals, DeskTime’s CEO, mentioned, “In-office work encourages more frequent breaks, which might seem unproductive initially but are crucial for mental refreshment and overall employee wellness.”

Summer Work Patterns

Over half of UK employees admit to leaving work earlier during summer, a trend referred to as “the summer sneak.” A report from Dayforce, an HR platform, indicated that 45% extend their lunch breaks to enjoy warmer weather, while 40% might call in sick for summer gatherings, and 34% commonly leave on Fridays without notifying supervisors. Conversely, 15% have been requested to work while on summer vacations.

Job Market Trends

Despite the introduction of numerous digital roles since 2000, the career aspirations of young people remain largely unchanged over the past 25 years. Findings from the Education & Employers charity show that the most coveted positions continue to be actor, doctor, and lawyer. Alarmingly, 46% of young individuals are uncertain about their career paths—a significant increase from 24% in 2018. Nick Chambers, the charity’s CEO, stated, “We are failing future generations in terms of preparing them for the workforce.”

Impact of AI on Career Choices

One in ten graduates have revised their career objectives in response to AI advancements. Research from the graduate career platform Prospects revealed that 14% feel pessimistic regarding their job opportunities due to automation, while 43% are considering leaving their current positions. Coding, graphic design, legal, and data science roles appear to be at the highest risk. Chris Rea from Prospects commented, “The rapid emergence of AI raises significant concerns for its long-term implications.”

Highlighted Appointment

The Rural Payments Agency is currently searching for a new chief executive. This executive agency, under the UK Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, manages a variety of policies, initiatives, and services for the agricultural sector in England, distributing over £2 billion in payments annually to farmers and land managers.

The new chief executive will establish policies and strategic direction, ensuring that the Agency’s objectives align with its duties and Defra’s priorities. Candidates should exhibit a customer-centric approach, demonstrating the ability to inspire confidence and collaborate effectively, ideally having led large organizations across multiple locations.

Applicants must show a track record of instilling user-centered principles within their organizations, embracing new technologies, data strategies, and agile methodologies necessary to enhance service efficiency. The selected candidate will also need to demonstrate adaptability in updating policies and services in response to shifting priorities and feedback. Applications are open until June 4.