Hospitality Managers Employment Guide (+ Job Description Template) for 2025
When I first stepped into the world of hospitality, I had no idea how much there was to learn—or how rewarding this career choice could be. If you’re looking to start or advance your career as a hospitality manager, this guide is for you. I’m here to share what I’ve learned about the job, the skills you’ll need, and the steps to take to thrive in this dynamic industry.
You can also jump right to the hospitality manager job description.
Hospitality Manager Career Summary
Hospitality management involves overseeing operations and staff to ensure exceptional guest experiences while maintaining efficient and profitable business practices.
Hospitality Manager Salary: Ranges from $54,300/year (Indeed) to $71,063/year (Glassdoor). Top earners (90th percentile) making $138,500 annually across the United States (ZipRecruiter).
Hospitality Manager Working Hours: Variable. Hotels are open late and management may be required to be on-site until the front desk closes, or even overnight for emergency situations.
What Does a Hospitality Manager Do?
A hospitality manager oversees daily operations, ensuring guests have exceptional experiences while maintaining efficient and profitable operations. They manage staff, handle budgets, and resolve customer concerns to uphold the establishment's reputation. Their role requires balancing leadership, customer service, and administrative responsibilities.
Daily Tasks
- Supervise staff and delegate tasks
- Monitor guest satisfaction and address complaints
- Oversee reservations and check-ins/outs
- Ensure cleanliness and maintenance standards are met
- Coordinate with departments like housekeeping and catering
Monthly Tasks
- Review and analyze financial performance reports
- Conduct staff meetings and training sessions
- Update marketing and promotional strategies
- Order supplies and inventory management
- Evaluate team performance and provide feedback
Yearly Tasks
- Develop and implement annual budgets
- Plan for seasonal hiring and staffing needs
- Perform full-scale performance reviews for employees
- Update policies and procedures based on industry trends
- Coordinate major renovations or upgrades, if needed
Hospitality Manager: Employment Outlook for 2025
The employment outlook for hospitality managers in 2025 is cautiously optimistic, reflecting the industry's ongoing recovery and adaptation to evolving market dynamics.
Industry Recovery and Growth
The hospitality sector has been rebounding from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. According to PwC's "US Hospitality Directions" report, both occupancies and room rates are expected to experience marginal growth in 2025, with a projected year-over-year increase in Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) of 0.7%, reaching approximately 117% of pre-pandemic levels.
This gradual improvement suggests a steady demand for skilled hospitality managers to oversee operations and drive profitability.
Technological Integration and Evolving Roles
Advancements in technology, particularly in artificial intelligence and automation, are reshaping the hospitality landscape. A report by RoomRaccoon highlights that general managers are now pivotal in balancing technological integration with personalized guest experiences, emphasizing strategic vision and human connection.
This evolution underscores the need for managers who can adeptly navigate technological tools while maintaining high standards of customer service.
Sustainability and Guest Preferences
There is a growing emphasis on sustainability within the hospitality industry. Guests are increasingly seeking eco-friendly accommodations, prompting hotels to adopt sustainable practices. This shift creates opportunities for managers who can implement and oversee green initiatives, aligning operations with environmental standards and guest expectations.
Employment Projections
While specific projections for hospitality managers vary, the overall industry trends indicate a stable employment outlook. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that employment for lodging managers is expected to experience little or no growth through 2028. However, managers with prior work experience and those with a bachelor's degree in hospitality or hotel management will have the advantage in the job market.
The hospitality industry in 2025 is anticipated to continue its recovery, with a focus on technological integration, sustainability, and personalized guest experiences. Hospitality managers who adapt to these trends and possess relevant skills will find favorable employment opportunities.
Types of Employers
Here are a list of the types of employers that may be looking to hire a hospitality manager:
- Hotels and Resorts
- Independent hotels
- Chain hotels (e.g., Marriott, Hilton)
- Luxury resorts
- Restaurants and Bars
- Fine dining establishments
- Casual dining chains
- Nightclubs and pubs
- Event Venues
- Convention centers
- Banquet halls
- Wedding venues
- Tourism and Travel Companies
- Cruise lines
- Tour operators
- Adventure travel companies
- Recreational Facilities
- Amusement parks
- Golf courses
- Sports complexes
- Healthcare and Assisted Living Facilities
- Retirement communities
- Hospitals with hospitality services
- Educational Institutions
- University lodging and dining services
- Campus event management
- Corporate Organizations
- Executive meeting facilities
- Employee cafeterias and lounges
- Transportation Services
- Airlines (lounge management)
- Train services with luxury accommodations
- Government and Nonprofit Organizations
- Military lodging facilities
- Public recreation centers
- Private Clubs and Associations
- Country clubs
- Social or cultural clubs
- Vacation Rentals and Short-Term Stays
- Airbnb property management companies
- Boutique vacation rental firms
Education, Skills, & Experience
If you are looking to become a hospitality manager, these are the skills and experience professionals will looks for.
Hospitality Manager Education
Most hospitality managers hold at least a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management, hotel management, or a related field. These programs often cover essential topics like business management, marketing, customer service, and financial planning.
- You can get a hotel management degree program from an accredited university
- Or, you can look for hotel management course from a college or continuing studies institution
- You can also do more independent learning through resources like hospitality conferences and hospitality management books
While a degree isn’t always mandatory, employers increasingly favor candidates with formal education, especially for larger or luxury establishments. Additionally, certifications in areas like food safety, event management, or revenue management can boost a manager’s credentials and career prospects.
Hospitality Manager Skills
These are the skills a hospitality manager will be expected to have:
Hard Skills
- Financial Management - Budgeting, cost control, and revenue analysis to ensure profitability.
- Operations Management - Overseeing daily functions like staffing, inventory, and maintenance to maintain smooth operations.
- Customer Relationship Management (CRM) - Utilizing CRM tools to track guest preferences and enhance customer satisfaction.
- Marketing and Sales - Developing promotional strategies and managing online reputation to attract and retain guests.
- Technology Proficiency - Using property management systems (PMS), booking platforms, and analytics tools effectively.
Soft Skills
- Communication - Clear and professional interactions with guests, staff, and stakeholders.
- Leadership - Inspiring and managing teams to perform at their best.
- Problem-Solving - Quickly addressing issues to ensure smooth operations and guest satisfaction.
- Time Management - Effectively prioritizing tasks to meet deadlines and manage a busy schedule.
- Adaptability - Adjusting to unexpected challenges and changing circumstances with ease.
- Conflict Resolution - Mediating disputes and finding solutions that satisfy all parties.
- Teamwork - Collaborating effectively with staff and departments to achieve common goals.
- Empathy - Understanding and addressing the needs and concerns of both guests and employees.
- Attention to Detail - Ensuring all aspects of operations meet high-quality standards.
Hospitality Manager Experience
Practical experience through internships or entry-level roles is highly valued, providing hands-on skills and industry insight. Here are some ways to get your foot in the door:
- Start with Entry-Level Roles - Gain hands-on experience by working as a front desk agent, server, or housekeeping staff to understand the industry's fundamentals.
- Pursue Internships or Apprenticeships - Join hospitality internships or training programs that offer direct exposure to operations and management practices.
- Volunteer at Events or Nonprofit Organizations - Help organize events or manage hospitality services for community programs to build relevant skills and connections.
Finding a Job as a Hospitality Manager
Finding the right hospitality management job starts with knowing where to look. Whether you’re new to the industry or seeking a step up, these resources can connect you to exciting opportunities in the hospitality world.
- Hospitality-Specific Job Boards - Websites like Hcareers, Hospitality Online, or Caterer.com.
- General Job Platforms - LinkedIn, Indeed, Glassdoor, or Monster.
- Company Websites - Directly apply through hotel or restaurant chains like Marriott, Hilton, or Hyatt careers pages.
- Industry Associations - Sites like the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA) or Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI).
- Recruitment Agencies - Agencies specializing in hospitality placements, such as Renard International or Horizon Hospitality.
- Networking Events - Job fairs, conferences, or hospitality meetups.
- Educational Institutions - University or college career centers offering job listings or alumni networks.
- Social Media - Following companies and applying through platforms like LinkedIn or Facebook job listings.
- Local Tourism Boards - Check opportunities promoted by local travel and tourism organizations.
- Hospitality Forums and Communities - Engage in forums or online groups where job leads are often shared.
Hospitality Manager Job Description Template
Job Title: Hospitality Manager
Location: [Insert Location]
Employment Type: [Full-time/Part-time/Contract]
Reports To: [General Manager/Owner/Operations Manager]
Job Summary:
We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Hospitality Manager to oversee daily operations and ensure an exceptional experience for our guests. The ideal candidate will excel in leadership, customer service, and operational management to maintain high standards of service, efficiency, and profitability.
Key Responsibilities:
- Manage daily operations, including staff supervision, scheduling, and task delegation.
- Ensure guest satisfaction by addressing inquiries, resolving complaints, and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
- Monitor financial performance, including budgets, revenue, and expenses, to meet business goals.
- Oversee property maintenance, cleanliness, and adherence to safety regulations.
- Implement marketing and promotional strategies to attract and retain guests.
- Recruit, train, and evaluate staff to build a motivated and effective team.
- Develop and enforce policies and procedures to maintain operational consistency.
- Collaborate with vendors and suppliers to manage inventory and services.
- Stay updated on industry trends to incorporate best practices into operations.
Requirements:
- Proven experience in hospitality management or a related field.
- Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency in [list relevant software, e.g., property management systems, CRM tools].
- Exceptional problem-solving and organizational abilities.
- Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
- Certifications in [e.g., Food Safety, Event Management, Revenue Management].
Benefits:
[List benefits such as healthcare, vacation, bonuses, etc.]
How to Apply:
Please send your resume and a cover letter to [insert email address] with the subject line "Hospitality Manager Application – [Your Name]." Applications will be accepted until [insert deadline, if applicable].
This template can be customized to fit the specific needs of your business and attract the right candidates for your role.
You can also access the Hospitality Manager Job Description Template via Google Docs, if you prefer. Use File > Make a copy to start editing it on your Drive.
What Next?
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