Description

The position of a general manager requires leadership qualities and the ability to oversee a business and lead a team of employees. General manager positions can vary greatly, as most places of employment require some sort of management position, but the job's main requirements are the ability to run various tasks throughout the day, motivate others, and be responsible for a team of staff.Depending on the employer, most general managers work indoors in an office setting doing paperwork, creating schedules for employees, checking inventory, ordering more products, and speaking with customers directly. They can also expect to take over an employee's shift if the business is under-staffed on a given day. This job requires a great deal of mental work, as hiring a staff of unwilling employees can make the work environment difficult.General managers are responsible for not only hiring their staff, but firing as well, and physical labor is required in most positions in order to understand their employees' jobs inside and out and be able to work long hours. Managers are also responsible for training their staff and making sure they are able to run the operation while the manager focuses on larger matters. A high school diploma, many years of work experience, and leadership qualities are necessary for this position, and some employers may require an associate's degree or higher in a business-related field.

Roles & Responsibilities

As a General Manager with 6-9 years of experience in Canada, your main responsibilities include:

  • Oversee day-to-day operations, ensuring efficient and effective performance across all departments. Monitor and evaluate departmental activities, implement improvements, and optimize productivity.
  • Develop and execute strategic plans to achieve business objectives, drive growth, and increase profitability. Identify market trends, analyze competition, and make informed decisions to maintain a competitive edge.
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including clients, suppliers, and business partners. Foster collaboration, negotiate contracts, and resolve conflicts to enhance business partnerships.
  • Lead and inspire a high-performing team, providing guidance, coaching, and support to achieve organizational goals.

Qualifications & Work Experience

For a General Manager, the following qualifications are required:

  • Proven leadership experience to effectively manage and inspire a team, setting clear goals and driving performance.
  • Strong strategic planning and problem-solving skills to make informed decisions and overcome challenges.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities to build relationships with stakeholders, negotiate contracts, and represent the organization.
  • Solid financial acumen to manage budgets, analyze financial reports, and make sound financial decisions that align with organizational goals.

Essential Skills For General Manager

1

Leadership-Management

2

Strategic Development-Management

3

Forecasting-Management

4

Communication-Management

5

Hiring-Management

6

Time Management-Management

Skills That Affect General Manager Salaries

Different skills can affect your salary. Below are the most popular skills and their effect on salary.

Business Development

29%

Operations Management

5%

Budget Estimation

16%

Sales & Management

4%

Career Prospects

The role of a General Manager is vital in overseeing operations and driving growth within an organization. For professionals with 6-9 years of experience in Canada, there are several alternative roles to consider. Here are four options to explore:

  • Operations Manager: A role focused on optimizing processes, managing resources, and improving overall efficiency.
  • Business Development Manager: A position that involves identifying and pursuing new opportunities for growth, building strategic partnerships, and expanding the organization's reach.
  • Human Resources Manager: A role centered on managing employee relations, talent acquisition, performance management, and ensuring compliance with labor laws.
  • Project Manager: A position that involves planning, executing, and monitoring projects to ensure successful delivery within scope, budget, and timeline.

How to Learn

The job role of General Manager in Canada is expected to experience steady growth in the market. Based on a 10-year analysis and latest data from Google, the position is projected to see an increase in employment opportunities. With Canada's thriving economy and diverse industries, the demand for skilled General Managers is anticipated to remain strong. This growth can be attributed to the continuous expansion of businesses across various sectors, calling for competent individuals to manage operations efficiently. Overall, the future looks promising for aspiring General Managers in Canada, with ample employment prospects and a positive market outlook.