"The role of GM is an extremely varied one; you can be meeting David Jason one minute and then the next, sitting down to discuss a golden wedding celebration or a corporate conference. Everyday, every hour is different..."

General Manager My name is Rhod Mitchell and I manage a five star hotel on the outskirts of Leeds. I have been in hospitality all my life since I started out as a kitchen porter when I was about 14. That gave me the bug and from there I decided this was to be my career. I started out a Birmingham college doing two course, one a very practical one in the kitchens and working behind reception. I then did a two year management course looking at finance and human resources and that led me to start a graduate programme with Grand Metropolitan hotels. The role of GM is an extremely varied one; you can be meeting David Jason one minute and then the next, sitting down to discuss a golden wedding celebration or a corporate conference. Everyday, every hour is different...

A Day in the Life

• 6.30am wake
• 7.00am breakfast with the kids
• 7.30am leave for work
• Arrive at work ready for another day
• Check incoming emails over a cup of coffee
• Check with Duty Manager the events of previous night, action as necessary
• Check incoming mail and deal with as appropriate
• 9.30 attend daily DASH meeting with the team to run through the day’s business
• Do a “walk round” of the hotel and departments discussing the issues and jobs to be done
• Attend a PR meeting with agent, followed by 3 internal meetings to prepare and complete reports for HO
• 2.30pm host Head of Department meeting
• Make numerous phone calls and emails
• Sign off correspondence
• Go home!

Career Progression

I have the opportunity within De Vere to move to a larger property within its portfolio or move to an Area Manager’s position or Regional Manager’s position in the hotel trade or associated services. I could go into lecturing or even set up my own hotel. However, there is plenty to keep me occupied at Oulton Hall at the moment.

Qualifications Needed

Management qualifications either gained at University or on the job NVQ qualifications in Management level 4.

There is a variety of routes into Management. Previous experience in the hotel or leisure sector is vital.

Qualities Needed

Good overall management abilities, practical problem solving approach with excellent customer service awareness and people management skills.