How to become a General Manager

What is a General Manager?

General Managers are tasked with leading a team to ensure they are meeting targets in all areas i.e. financial, performance based, customer relations and health and safety.

What do they do?

A General Manager is responsible for the performance of their team. They must motivate and help develop the skills of their team to achieve this so that they are performing at maximum efficiency.

What qualifications do I need to become a General Manager?

-A degree level qualification in Business/ Communication related degree

-Health and Safety Qualification

-3 years of experience in Leisure Management

-Understanding of P & L and budget analysis

-Pool Plant Operators qualification

-First aid at work and AED

What skills/experience will an employer look for?

-Good communication skills both verbally and written

-Excellent Team Leader

-Good basic computer skills, i.e. Microsoft Word, Powerpoint and Excel

-Experience in recruiting, developing and managing employees

-Efficient at goal setting and achieving goals

-Thorough understanding of financial planning

-Knowledge of health and safety guidelines

What salary can I expect?

The starting salary is usually £25k-30k however each job varies.

Who might employ a General Manager?

General Managers are normally employed by leisure centres to oversee the running of the facility.

What are the best things about being a General Manager?

As a General Manager, you will be responsible for a team in completely different parts of the facility. Because of this you will be trusted with making important decisions such as hiring and firing of employees as well as interviewing new potential workers. Due to the huge responsibility, some employees see this as a huge perk to the job. Gaining experience is also another benefit to being a General Manager. By leading and being responsible for a group of people it will help to develop skills such as team-leading and communication both verbally and written. This can only enhance your employability for future careers.

Are there any drawbacks?

The job may get a bit hectic if it is very busy, whilst trying to manage a large number of employees. The pressure of the job furthermore increases because of this, which some managers may not enjoy. Managers often have to make unpopular decisions also such as firing employees for the good of the company, so you have to be prepared to not always being the most popular person in the business.

More information:

For more information, advice and guidance about careers in PE, Sport, Training and Fitness and Activity Holiday Jobs, visit our careers advice centre; including job hunting tips,  CV guide and much more.