How to Become A General Manager

Steps to Become a General Manager

Step 1: Complete a bachelor degree in business or management

Enrol in a Bachelor of Business, Bachelor of Commerce, or Bachelor of Management at an Australian university. These three-year full-time degrees cover finance, marketing, HR, and strategy. A bachelor degree is the base most employers expect before putting candidates on a management pathway.

Step 2: Build hands-on experience in team leader and supervisor roles

Apply for junior roles in your chosen industry and work toward team leader or supervisor positions. This stage takes around three to five years. You will build people management, budgeting, and decision-making skills that are core to any General Manager role.

Step 3: Complete the Diploma of Leadership and Management (BSB50420)

Enrol in the Diploma of Leadership and Management (BSB50420) at a TAFE or registered training organisation (RTO). This takes 12 to 18 months part-time and is available online or face-to-face. It covers staff management, planning, financial analysis, and leadership skills. Check the current code at training.gov.au before enrolling.

Step 4: Pursue an MBA to reach senior management roles

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) from an Australian university is a strong path to senior management. Most programs take one to two years full-time or two to four years part-time. If an MBA is not the right fit, consider the Advanced Diploma of Leadership and Management (BSB60420). This takes 12 months full-time at a TAFE or RTO.

Step 5: Join a professional body and grow your leadership network

Apply for membership with the Institute of Managers and Leaders (IML ANZ) or the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD). Both bodies offer skills programs, peer networks, and career tools that senior employers value. Active membership also gives you access to current leadership practice in Australia.

Each day, a General Manager makes key decisions that keep the business running and moving forward. They set goals and policies, lead their teams, and respond quickly to shifting business conditions. Key tasks include consulting with team heads, approving budgets, and presenting reports to the board. They also speak for the business at public events and industry forums. A General Manager selects and reviews senior staff, ensuring the team has the right people in the right roles.

A General Manager runs the show at the senior level of any business. From setting long-term goals to managing people, every part of the business falls within their scope. This is a hands-on leadership role where no two days are the same.

• Policy and Planning – Setting clear standards and goals that guide the whole business forward.
• Daily Management – Keeping the business on track and running at full efficiency.
• Situation Review – Reading the room, spotting changes, and directing staff to respond fast.
• Team Consultation – Working with senior staff on operations, finance, sales, and team needs.
• Budget Approval – Signing off on funds for major programs and key initiatives.
• External Presence – Being the face of the business at events, talks, and forums.
• Report Preparation – Producing and presenting budgets, forecasts, and progress reports to the board.
• Staff Review – Hiring and reviewing senior staff to keep the leadership team strong.
• Specialist Areas – Overseeing key areas such as accounting, marketing, and HR as needed.

• Leadership
• Strategic Planning
• Financial Management
• Communication
• Problem-Solving
• Decision-Making
• Project Management
• Team Management
• Negotiation
• Adaptability
• Time Management
• Analytical Thinking
• Customer Focus
• Conflict Resolution
• Stakeholder Engagement