General Manager jobs

Are you a general manager looking for your next challenge? Michael Page can help. We work with top employers across the UK to connect talented candidates with the perfect general manager jobs for them.

Whether you’re just starting your career or are a seasoned professional, we can help you find the right general manager jobs to match your skills and interests.

The role of a general manager

The general manager job description surrounds improving departmental efficiency and profits, while overseeing day-to-day operations. Professionals in general manager jobs are sometimes described as scaled-down CEOs - acting for one department, business segment, or retail location, rather than the overall company. 

A general manager’s duties include creating a business strategy for their department and setting goals and targets. They must oversee budgets and ensure their department is cost efficient - and evaluate and improve financial performance and overall operations. It also falls under the general manager’s remit to create and implement policies and processes, and ensure health and safety regulations are followed. 

Professionals in general management jobs are also involved in HR: recruiting and training new employees, overseeing the employee personal development process, and ensuring employee productivity and morale are high.

Furthermore, general managers will need to regularly report on progress to senior managers and company directors.

Examples of general manager jobs include hospitality general managers, who work at spas, hotels, and holiday resorts. Elsewhere, a restaurant general manager will run a restaurant, and a theatre general manager a theatre. 

Professionals in general manager jobs are generally in senior positions at their companies - especially when working in smaller businesses. 

Our Services

At Michael Page, we offer a range of services to help you find perfect general manager jobs, including:

●    Access to our vast network of job opportunities with leading employers
●    Personalised career advice from our experienced consultants
●    Assistance with CV and interview preparation
●    Help with salary negotiations and job offers

Our Jobs

We have a variety of general manager jobs available across the UK, across a wide range of industries and sectors. Whether you’re interested in working in hospitality, retail, or the automotive industry, we can help you find the perfect job to match your skills and interests.

FAQs

What qualifications do I need to become a general manager?

A Bachelor’s degree in business, or a subject relevant to your chosen industry will be very helpful when it comes to securing a general manager position. Some companies will require candidates to have a Master’s degree. Not every business will demand a degree, but the vast majority will ask for some higher education qualifications. Some organisations may also require applicants to complete professional qualifications.

What skills does a general manager need to have?

It is vital that general managers have exceptional organisational and leadership skills, and are effective communicators. An aptitude for problem-solving will be instrumental in this role, alongside a robust analytical ability, and business sense. Project management and people management skills are non-negotiable. Furthermore, general managers must bring to the role a thorough understanding of business processes and functions, from finance and HR to operations and marketing. 

What does a general manager do?

A general manager oversees a department, business segment, or retail location that is part of a wider business. They’re responsible for the smooth running, efficiency, and profitability of their department, and duties include logistical, financial, and HR tasks. They must regularly report back to senior management on their progress.

Can you get a general manager job with no experience?

A general manager typically starts their career in the lower rungs of a company, before becoming a junior manager and a middle manager and then rising to the senior rank of general manager. While this pathway differs from company to company, depending on the size of the organisation and the structure of its hierarchy, it would be very unlikely to secure a general manager role without previous management experience. 

How can I get a job as a general manager?

If you’re a general manager looking for your next opportunity, Michael Page can help. Our team of experts can connect you with the best employers in the UK, and help you find the perfect general management jobs to match your skills, experience, and ambitions. Submit your CV today to take the next step in your development career.