E XC L U S IVE F EAT U RE
To put this in perspective, the US
Bureau of Labor Statistics projects the
hospitality industry to grow by 17.7%
between 2010 and 2014, adding more
than 2.2 million new job opportunities.
This industry rewards people who
work hard, and is perfect for those
who have the ability to constantly
learn and improve, whether they have
been formally educated or have honed
their skills over time. This is why it
is a combination of education and
experience that makes for the best and
most successful hospitality employee.
Career Paths of a
Hospitality Management
Student
The hospitality industry offers career
paths that reflect its dynamic, often
vibrant nature. There are many
opportunities to start at the bottom
and work your way up to management
– you just need to set your goals and
gain the appropriate experience and
training and work hard. Career paths in
the hospitality industry are not always
vertical. Many people working in the
industry move sideways, progressing to
a similar-level position in a different part
of the industry. For example, a manager
may move from working in a club to
a managerial position in a restaurant.
Or they could move to a different job
in the same business like, for example,
being a manager in a hotel.
Mid-level and executive-level
hospitality management jobs are
more likely to require specialised
training and an associate or bachelor’s
degree. For example, candidates for
hotel management and executive
positions may need a degree in hotel
management or administration. Humanresource management positions may
require degrees in business or human
resources. Other useful degrees for
hospitality management jobs include
tourism management, culinary arts,
marketing, public relations and, of
course, hospitality management.
In addition to the many job
opportunities, a career in hospitality
not only offers one a way to earn a
very good living but also a chance to
work in a dynamic environment. With
that in mind, here are some of the
top career paths (but not limited to) in
hospitality management.
32
easyuni Guide 2014
Issue 2
Hotel General Manager
The responsibilities are to direct everything involved in the operation
and financial viability of the property; creates standards for personnel
administration and performance, service to patrons, room rates, advertising,
publicity and food selection.
This position needs a bachelor degree in business management, with some
experience in accounting, hotel administration, economics, marketing,
housekeeping, food service management, and hotel maintenance and engineering,
as well as knowledge of computers and specific hotel-related software.
Aspects of managerial skills that are needed include customer service,
interpersonal skills, management, leadership, and skills in listening, organising,
and problem solving.
Front-office Manager
Ensures accommodations meet guest expectations, and greets hotel guests
when needed. They also hire, train and schedule front-office staff. Other duties
can include overseeing reservations, assigning rooms, and handling billing and
accounts. Front-office managers also respond to customer complaints and
ensure that staff members respond to guests’ special requests.
Degree programmes in hospitality management include coursework in
accounting, marketing, housekeeping
management, economics, hotel management
and maintenance. Some hotels offer training
for managers that includes courses in
the specific needs of the facility, such as
reservations software.
Front-office managers usually obtain their
position after gaining experience working
in the facility. Hotel administrators or
upper management may select employees
who have demonstrated leadership and
excellent customer service for the job.
Experience working with customers in a
hotel helps to hone skills in customer service,
communication, listening, organisation, time
management, and problem solving.