How to become a general manager

Shape the work environment with good strategy, great people, and effective governance.

Pathways to this career

  1. You need considerable work experience and a bachelor’s degree for most general manager roles.  
  2. Complete a Bachelor of Business Administration 
  3. Open more doors with postgraduate study, from a graduate certificate in business to a Master of Business Administration (MBA).
  4. Gain plenty experience across the management of people and processes within an organisation. 
  5. Be sure you can demonstrate successful management of profit and loss within an organisation or business when seeking employment as a general manager.

What does a general manager do?

General Managers lead, plan, organise, direct and review the day-to-day operations of commercial, industrial, government and defence organisations.

Tasks and duties

  • Plan policy, set standards and objectives for organisations.
  • Provide day-to-day direction, endorse policy to fulfil objectives, achieve specific goals, and maximise profit and efficiency.
  • Consult with staff and departmental heads on methods of operation, equipment requirements, finance, sales and human resources.
  • Authorise funding of project and policy initiatives.
  • prepare reports, budgets and forecasts.
  • Select and manage the performance of senior staff.

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