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How to Become a General Manager: Australian Careers in Small Business

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How to Become a General Manager: Australian Careers in Small Business
How to Become a General Manager: Australian Careers in Small Business

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On this page

What is a General Manager?

What will I do?

What skills do I need?

Resources

What is a General Manager?

The role of a General Manager is a dynamic and rewarding career path that involves overseeing the daily operations of an organisation. General Managers are responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating various activities to ensure that the organisation meets its goals and objectives. They play a crucial role in shaping the strategic direction of the company, making decisions that impact not only the operational aspects but also the overall culture and success of the business.

In this leadership position, General Managers are tasked with a variety of responsibilities that include setting policies, establishing standards, and managing resources effectively. They work closely with departmental heads to ensure that all areas of the organisation are aligned with the strategic vision. This often involves assessing performance metrics, analysing market trends, and making informed decisions to enhance productivity and profitability. Their ability to adapt to changing circumstances and provide clear direction is essential for maintaining a competitive edge in the industry.

General Managers also engage in high-level communication, representing the organisation at official events, negotiations, and public forums. They are often the face of the company, liaising with stakeholders, clients, and the community. This role requires strong interpersonal skills, as building relationships and fostering collaboration across teams is vital for achieving organisational success. Additionally, they are responsible for preparing reports and budgets, ensuring that financial resources are allocated efficiently to support the organisation’s objectives.

Overall, a career as a General Manager offers a unique blend of strategic oversight, operational management, and leadership. It is a position that not only allows individuals to influence the direction of a company but also provides opportunities for personal and professional growth. With the right skills and experience, aspiring General Managers can find themselves at the helm of exciting and impactful organisations, driving change and innovation in their respective industries.

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Career snapshots For General Managers

General Managers play a crucial role in overseeing the operations of various organisations, including commercial, industrial, government, and defence sectors. They are responsible for planning, directing, and controlling the day-to-day activities of their organisations, ensuring that objectives are met efficiently and effectively.

  • Average Age: 45 years
  • Gender Distribution: 30% female
  • Hours Worked: Average of 47 hours per week, with 91% working full-time
  • Employment Numbers: Approximately 70,400 people are employed as General Managers
  • Projected Growth: An annual increase of about 1,100 positions is expected
  • Unemployment Rate: Specific unemployment rates for this role are not detailed, but the overall job market remains competitive

General Managers are typically found in various industries, including healthcare, manufacturing, and professional services. Their roles require a combination of leadership, strategic planning, and operational management skills, making them vital to the success of their organisations.

What will I do?

The role of a General Manager is pivotal in steering the direction and success of an organisation. They are responsible for overseeing daily operations, implementing strategic initiatives, and ensuring that the organisation meets its goals efficiently and effectively. This multifaceted position requires a blend of leadership, strategic thinking, and operational expertise, making it essential for the smooth functioning of various departments within the organisation.

  • Planning and Policy Development – Establishing standards and objectives to guide the organisation’s direction.
  • Daily Management – Providing direction and management to ensure the organisation meets its goals and maximises efficiency.
  • Situation Assessment – Evaluating changing circumstances and issuing directives to staff as needed.
  • Consultation – Collaborating with departmental heads on operational methods, equipment needs, finance, sales, and human resources.
  • Funding Authorisation – Approving budgets for major policy implementation programs.
  • Representation – Acting as the organisation’s representative at official events, negotiations, and public forums.
  • Report Preparation – Overseeing the creation of reports, budgets, and forecasts for governing bodies.
  • Staff Management – Selecting and evaluating the performance of senior staff members.
  • Operational Oversight – Managing various functions such as accounting, sales, marketing, and human resources.

What skills do I need?

A successful career as a General Manager requires a diverse set of skills that encompass leadership, strategic planning, and operational management. General Managers must possess strong communication abilities to effectively convey policies and directives to their teams, ensuring alignment with organisational goals. They should also be adept at problem-solving, capable of assessing changing situations and making informed decisions that drive efficiency and profitability. Additionally, a solid understanding of financial management, including budgeting and forecasting, is essential for overseeing the financial health of the organisation.

Moreover, interpersonal skills are crucial for building relationships with stakeholders, including employees, clients, and partners. A General Manager should be able to inspire and motivate their team, fostering a positive work environment that encourages collaboration and innovation. Continuous learning and adaptability are also important traits, as the business landscape is constantly evolving. By developing these skills, aspiring General Managers can position themselves for success in this dynamic and challenging role.

Skills/attributes

  • Leadership
  • Strategic Planning
  • Financial Acumen
  • Communication Skills
  • Problem-Solving
  • Decision-Making
  • Project Management
  • Team Management
  • Negotiation Skills
  • Adaptability
  • Time Management
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Customer Focus
  • Conflict Resolution
  • Networking

CourseFinder makes every effort to ensure the information we provide is correct at the time of publication. We welcome your input to help keep our career profiles as accurate and up to date as possible. All queries and feedback will be taken into consideration as we conduct periodic reviews of our content. Add your voice to the conversation!

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