Most commonly reported Work Activities
- Communicating with Supervisors, Peers, or Subordinates Providing information to supervisors, co-workers, and subordinates by telephone, in written form, e-mail, or in person.
- Making Decisions and Solving Problems Analysing information and evaluating results to choose the best solution and solve problems.
- Training and Teaching Others Identifying the educational needs of others, developing formal educational or training programs or classes, and teaching or instructing others.
- Getting Information Observing, receiving, and otherwise obtaining information from all relevant sources.
- Identifying Objects, Actions, and Events Identifying information by categorising, estimating, recognising differences or similarities, and detecting changes in circumstances or events.
- Interacting With Computers Using computers and computer systems (including hardware and software) to program, write software, set up functions, enter data, or process information.
- Coordinating the Work and Activities of Others Getting members of a group to work together to accomplish tasks.
- Communicating with Persons Outside Organisation Communicating with people outside the organisation, representing the organisation to customers, the public, government, and other external sources. This information can be exchanged in person, in writing, or by telephone or e-mail.
- Performing for or Working Directly with the Public Performing for people or dealing directly with the public. This includes serving customers in restaurants and stores, and receiving clients or guests.
- Establishing and Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships Developing constructive and cooperative working relationships with others, and maintaining them over time.
Working Life
Hotel Managers make sure a hotel runs smoothly every day.
They lead staff, provide excellent customer service, and ensure guests have a positive experience. They also manage budgets, solve problems, and help the hotel meet its business goals. Hotel Managers work closely with teams in reception, housekeeping, food and beverage, and maintenance.
Typical tasks include:
- Managing the day-to-day running of the hotel.
- Leading, training, and supporting staff.
- Making sure guests receive excellent customer service.
- Handling customer questions and complaints.
- Managing bookings and room occupancy.
- Monitoring budgets, costs, and hotel income.
- Organising staff schedules and recruitment.
- Ensuring the hotel meets health, safety, and food safety standards.
- Working with suppliers and contractors.
- Planning promotions, events, and marketing activities.
- Using hotel management software to monitor operations and performance.
In Ireland, Hotel Managers can work in hotels, resorts, guesthouses, conference venues, and other tourism businesses. With experience, they can progress to managing larger hotels, regional management roles, or senior leadership positions in the hospitality and tourism industry.
Most commonly reported Work Tasks
- Answer inquiries pertaining to hotel policies and services, and resolve occupants' complaints.
- Participate in financial activities, such as the setting of room rates, the establishment of budgets, and the allocation of funds to departments.
- Confer and cooperate with other managers to ensure coordination of hotel activities.
- Greet and register guests.
- Monitor the revenue activity of the hotel or facility.
- Manage and maintain temporary or permanent lodging facilities.
- Train staff members.
- Observe and monitor staff performance to ensure efficient operations and adherence to facility's policies and procedures.
- Coordinate front-office activities of hotels or motels, and resolve problems.
- Inspect guest rooms, public areas, and grounds for cleanliness and appearance.
Qualities - Hotel Manager
Successful Hotel Managers combine strong people skills with good business and organisational abilities.
They need to enjoy working with people, stay calm under pressure, and make decisions quickly when challenges arise.
Key qualities and skills include:
- Strong leadership and teamwork skills.
- Excellent communication and customer service.
- Good organisation and time management.
- Problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Financial and budgeting awareness.
- Ability to lead and motivate staff.
- Attention to detail.
- Flexibility and adaptability.
- Confidence using computers and hotel management systems.
- Knowledge of health, safety, and food safety practices.
- Commercial awareness and an understanding of the hospitality industry.
- Ability to work well in a fast-paced environment, including evenings, weekends, and busy tourist seasons.
Interests - Hotel Manager
This occupation is typically suited for people with the following Career Interests:
Enterprising
Enterprising people like situations that involve using resources for personal or corporate economic gain. Such people may have an opportunistic frame of mind, and are drawn to commerce, trade and making deals. Some pursue sales and marketing occupations. Many will eventually end up owning their own business, or in management roles in larger organisations. They tend to be very goal-oriented and work best when focused on a target. Some have an entrepreneurial inclination.
Administrative
Administrative people are interested in work that offers security and a sense of being part of a larger process. They may be at their most productive under supervisors who give clear guidelines and while performing routine tasks in a methodical and reliable way.
They tend to enjoy clerical and most forms of office work, where they perform essential administrative duties. They often form the backbone of large and small organisations alike. They may enjoy being in charge of office filing systems, and using computers and other office equipment to keep things running smoothly. They usually like routine work hours and prefer comfortable indoor workplaces.
Social
The Social person's interests focus on interacting with the people in their environment. In all cases, the Social person enjoys the personal contact with other people in preference to the impersonal dealings with things, data and ideas found in other groups.
Many will seek out positions where there is direct contact with the public in some advisory role, whether a receptionist or a counsellor. Social people are motivated by an interest in different types of people and like diversity in their work environments. Many are drawn towards careers in the caring professions and social welfare area, whilst others prefer teaching and other 'informing' roles.
Entry / Progression - Hotel Manager
There are several pathways to becoming a Hotel Manager. Many people combine formal education with practical work experience in the hospitality industry.
Sample Education and Training Pathways
A number of courses are available throughout the country that focus on learning and skills that may be useful for this career. The examples and links below may guide you in your research.
Higher Education CAO (Undergraduate)
Higher Education courses at Levels 6 to 8 on the NFQ, delivered in Universities and Technological Universities & Institutes. Courses run from 2 – 5 years and places are allocated on a points-based system, processed by the Central Application Office.
A degree or higher education qualification provides a strong foundation in hospitality, business, leadership, and customer service.
Courses include:
- Shannon College of Hotel Management (University of Galway)
Business Studies in International Hotel Management (Level 8).
Shannon College of Hotel Management is Ireland's only dedicated hotel management college. It offers two level 8 degrees and three Level 9 degrees, all preparing students for careers in business and hotel management. There is also an International Business Foundation course, as well as micro credentials and continuous professional development courses throughout the year.
- Technological University Dublin (TU Dublin)
BA in Hospitality Management (Level 7). - Technological University of the Shannon (TUS)
BA (Hons) in Hospitality Management with International Placement (Level 8). - Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT)
BA in Hospitality Management (Level 7). - MTU Kerry North Campus, Kerry
Hotel Management National Trainee Manager Development Programme - MTU Bishopstown Campus, Cork
Bachelor of Business (Honours) Hospitality Management
Graduate Pathway:
Hospitality Degree → Graduate/Trainee Manager → Department Manager → Assistant Hotel Manager → Hotel Manager
Search for CAO Courses
Example search terms include: Hotel management, hospitality management, travel and tourism, business management, customer care.
Higher Education (Postgraduate)
Postgraduate courses are courses at Levels 9 and 10 on the NFQ and usually last 1 – 2 years full time, or longer if a PhD or part time. Entrants typically require an undergraduate award (Level 8).
Search for Postgraduate Courses
Example search terms include: hotel, hospitality, management.
Trainee Management Programmes
Some hotel groups offer graduate or trainee management programmes that combine paid work with structured management training.
Munster Technological University (MTU) National Trainee Manager Development Programme allows learners to work while earning a hotel management qualification.
Students can begin with a QQI Level 5 or Level 6 qualification in hospitality, tourism, or business before progressing to higher education through the CAO or advanced entry routes.
Further Education & Training (FET) Courses are delivered by local ETBs, ranging in duration from several weeks up to 20 months. Courses are designed to meet the labour market needs and often include a large element of work experience.
Search for FET Courses
Example search terms include: hotel management, hospitality, business management, customer services, human resource management.
PLC Courses (FET)
PLC courses are full-time courses, one or two years duration, with awards at Level 5 and 6 on the NFQ. They are offered nationally in Schools and Colleges of Further Education.
Search for PLC Courses
Example search terms include: hospitality, hotel management, tourism, business management, customer services.
Work Your Way Up
Many Hotel Managers begin in entry-level roles such as:
- Receptionist
- Food and Beverage Assistant
- Accommodation Assistant
- Bar or Restaurant Supervisor
With experience, training, and strong leadership skills, they can progress to supervisory, assistant management, and hotel management positions.
Training and Experience Pathway:
Entry-Level Hospitality Role
(Receptionist, Food & Beverage Assistant,
Accommodation Assistant, Reservations Agent)
▼
Senior Team Member
(Shift Leader, Senior Receptionist, Head Housekeeper)
▼
Supervisor
(Front Office Supervisor, Restaurant Supervisor, Housekeeping Supervisor)
▼
Department Manager (Front Office Manager, Housekeeping Manager, Food & Beverage Manager, Rooms Division Manager)
▼
Assistant Hotel Manager / Operations Manager
▼
Hotel Manager
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are structured work-based training programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction. They run from 2 – 4 years and are open to individuals of all ages, including school leavers, those seeking a career change, and existing employees who wish to upskill.
Examples: Hotel Management, Bar Management, Hospitality, and Tourism sector Apprenticeships.
Search for Apprenticeships
Professional Development
Professional development (CPD) courses are specialised training, formal education, or advanced professional learning that improves skills, professional knowledge, competency, and overall effectiveness in the professional world.
Some large restaurant chains offer structured training programmes for staff, and others may recommend specific courses. Professional organisations sometimes also offer training or promote training providers.
See for example:
Check the Useful Contacts tab on this page to see if there are any professional bodies listed who may provide training related to this career.
Continuous Professional Development
Hotel Managers often continue to develop their skills through leadership training, professional courses, and specialist qualifications in areas such as revenue management, food safety, health and safety, human resources, and customer experience.
Continuous Professional Development Pathway:
Hotel Manager → General Manager (Larger Hotel or Resort) → Regional Manager / Area Manager / Hospitality Director / Hotel Group Executive
Pay & Salary - Hotel Manager
Salary Range (thousands per year)* €55k - €140k
Salaries vary depending on professional experience, hotel scale, and location.
Data Source(s):
Indeed/Excel Recruitment/Salary Expert/Payscale
Last Updated: July, 2026
Labour Market Updates - Hotel Manager
Note: The following information relates to occupations that include: Hotel and accommodation managers and proprietors, Restaurant and catering establishment managers and proprietors, Publicans and managers of licensed premises.
This information has been derived from the Solas National Skills Bulletin (2025).
After rebounding in 2022, employment levels have remained relatively unchanged for hospitality managers since. Just over half of those employed were female and just under a half held third level qualifications. The share of those employed aged 55 and over and the share of non-Irish citizens were both above the national average.
New employment permits issued were primarily for restaurant and duty managers, and the majority of posts advertised on DSP Jobs Ireland related to restaurant managers. There was a small number of mentions of difficulty in recruiting for restaurant managers and middle managers in the Recruitment Agency Survey.
Given the lack of employment growth in recent years for this occupation, it is difficult to determine the extent to which there is a lack of suitably qualified personnel for these roles or whether retention is a larger issue for this occupation.
Useful Contacts - Hotel Manager
-
Irish Hotels Federation
-
Fáilte Ireland
-
Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport
-
Irish Tourism Industry Confederation
-
Shannon College of Hotel Management
- Shannon College of Hotel Management, Shannon International Airport, Co. Clare. V14 DP03
- +353 (0)91 497200
- [email protected]
- Click Here
