General Manager Career Pathway
General Managers plan, administer, and review the major functions in government, private and not-for-profit organisations. They are responsible for the revenue and cost elements.
What does a General Manager do?
General Managers are responsible for directing the policy and operations of a company, authority or institution and the achievement of policy objectives, increased profit and market control. They monitor and evaluate performance, and provide strategic direction for enterprise management. They’ll prep reports, budgets, forecasts and also manage the presentation of these to governing bodies (depending on the industry). The ongoing consultation with staff is large part of a general managers role too.
Career outlook at a glance
45
Median age of the Australian General Manager (in years)
70,400
General Managers workforce in Australia
30%
Female share of Australian General Managers
Source: Jobs and Skills Australia. 2024.
Where do General Managers work?
They can work in offices, on the road and often do lots of interstate and global travel. They spend time consulting with employees at all levels of the business and also have the important role of being the face of the organisation - representing the business at client meetings and events.
How much does a General Manager earn?
91.1% are full-time workers and full-time median weekly salary earning are $1,650 dependent on the organisation and the level of experience. 1
According to Jobs and Skills Australia, they work on an average of 46.3 hours.
1 Source: Jobs and Skills Australia. 2024.
Specialisations
Specialisations can include: Chief Executive, Commissioner (Emergency Services), Director-General, Head of Armed Forces, Hospital Administrator, Managing Editor, Medical Superintendent, , Secretary (Government Department), Trade Union Secretary.
Related job titles
- Corporate General Manager
- Chief Operating Officer
Some relevant industry bodies include:
What education do you need?
This role often requires a Bachelor degree in business or higher, and/or 5+ years of relevant management experience. The number of years’ relevant experience may be a substitute for the formal qualification in some circumstances.
They can work in offices, on the road and often do lots of interstate and global travel. They spend time consulting with employees at all levels of the business and also have the important role of being the face of the organisation - representing the business at client meetings and events.
The next step in your career
Do you want to upskill in business and looking to take the next step in your career? Check out our business courses:
