Lodging Manager

Do you love to work with the public? Are you a leader? Then a career as a lodging manager may be just what you’re looking for. According to the Bureau of Labor Statics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook, employment for lodging managers is remaining steady. But, the need for these managers will continue to grow with the expected growth of travel and tourism.

What is a Lodging Manager?

Lodging managers coordinate the day-to-day activities of establishments that provide accommodations. They are responsible for ensuring that their business, organization or enterprise runs efficiently and profitably. They strive to make their guests’ vacation or business travel a pleasant experience. A lodging manager may run a large hotel, a bed-and-breakfast, or anything in between. Some lodging managers operate casinos and host conventions as well.

Job Responsibilities of Lodging Managers

A lodging manager’s job responsibilities may vary depending on the type of establishment being run. However, typically they do any of the following:

• Inspect guestrooms, public areas, and grounds for cleanliness and appearance,
• Answer inquiries pertaining to establishment policies and services, and resolve occupants’ complaints
• Ensure that company standards for guest services, decor, and housekeeping are met,
• Establish financial parameters such as lodging rates, budget constraints, and allocation of funds
• Track facility revenue
• Coordinate establishment activities
• Interview, hire, train, and termination of staff
• Greet and register guests
• Monitor and review staff performance
• Issue resolution
• Oversee social media marketing

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Career Outlook for Lodging Managers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics the projected growth of employment for lodging managers between 2016 and 2026 is 6 percent. That is about as fast as the average for all occupations. With tourism and travel expected to grow and with occupancy levels expected to be higher, there will be a need for more lodging managers. More experienced managers will continue to be in demand due to the larger, full-service establishments, such as casinos, resorts and convention hotels.

Competition will be stiffest for those seeking to work in establishments with the greatest level of guest services. These positions are the most highly sought after by applicants trained in administration or hospitality management. Therefore, distinguish yourself with the right education and training. An associate’s degree in restaurant and hotel management, or an associate’s degree in hospitality management from Bryant & Stratton College will set you well on your way to a rewarding career.

What can I do with an Associate’s Degree in Hospitality Management or Restaurant and Hotel Management?

Hospitality Management

An associate’s degree in hospitality management from Bryant & Stratton College promotes a solid background in business management while emphasizing hospitality. It will permit you to cultivate a strong understanding of the hospitality industry.

Restaurant and Hotel Management

An associate’s degree in restaurant and hotel management from Bryant & Stratton College will provide you that all important first step toward a career in hospitality. In this degree program, you will cultivate a strong foundation in hospitality management.

Both degrees will get you ready for employment in the hotel, sports, travel and tourism, food and beverage industries, and more.

As part of your preparation for your new career as a lodging manager, these associate degrees will provide you with the ability to distinguish and understand foundational concepts in the areas of hospitality services, planning, accounting, human resources, marketing and operations. You will also be able to classify the entities, features, and professions that comprise the hospitality industry. In addition, you will be able to compare the management principles and behaviors used in making hospitality related decisions. Furthermore, you will be able relate social, interpersonal, legal, and ethical issues to hospitality management decisions. Finally, you will have the ability to recommend solutions to hospitality related circumstances, whether that is restaurant, hotel operations, or event.

Additional Training/ Requirements 

An associate degree in hospitality management or restaurant and hotel management may qualify you for a position as a lodging manager in a hotel that provides limited services. Full-service hotels however, may require a bachelor’s degree in one of these two areas. Opportunities for advancement for lodging managers tend to be better in larger establishments, but usually require relocation.

For those who wish to distinguish themselves further, the Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics (CHIA) can be obtained through the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute. A lodging manager may also decide to become a Certified Facility Manager, offered by the International Facility Management Association; a Certified Hotel Administrator, a Certified Lodging Security Director or a Certified Hospitality Supervisor, offered by the American Hotel and Lodging Association Educational Institute, among others.

Employment Settings for Lodging Managers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the principal employers of lodging managers in 2016 were traveler accommodations at 66 percent. Next, about 24 percent of lodging managers were self-employed workers, such as owners of bed and breakfast establishments. About 3 percent were employed in RV (recreational vehicle) parks and recreational camps.

Being a lodging manager can sometimes get stressful due to the pressures of dealing with dissatisfied guests, coordinating activities, and making a profit for investors. Primarily, lodging managers work full time. And, because hotels are open 24 hours a day, it is not uncommon to work nights, weekends or even holidays. Some lodging managers must be on call around the clock, especially if they live on premises. Running a bed and breakfast often requires long hours of customer service as well.

While this information may help you in determining the right career path for you, understand that job market data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Handbook is intended to provide insight into occupational opportunities, and is not to be construed as a guarantee of salary or job title. Bryant & Stratton College cannot guarantee employment in any field.

For insights into a career as a lodging manager, please visit the Business Degrees section of our blog. Here you will find valuable information about careers in hospitality and as a lodging manager. Explore the website and be sure to visit the Hospitality Management Associate Degree page as well as the Restaurant and Hotel Management Associate Degree page.