General manager

General managers plan, direct or oversee the operations of companies or organisations. They make policies, manage daily operations, and plan the use of materials and human resources.

Also known as

Operations manager, franchise manager, franchise operator

Work environment

  • Usually work regular business hours but may work extra hours
  • Usually work in offices but may travel to different worksites
  • Need to lead others, make decisions and solve problems

Salary information

MOST COMMON
UPPER
LOWER
$61K-$242K 61000

Typical tasks

  • Manage daily business functions
  • Create and apply plans for business growth
  • Set key performance goals
  • Explore data to guide decisions
  • Review financial records
  • Manage sales, marketing and customer service
  • Hire and train key staff
  • Monitor team performance
  • Oversee pricing and cost policies
  • Report results to senior leaders

Outlook

General management is being shaped by rapid technological change, evolving customer expectations and new ways of working. Across New Zealand and globally, organisations are investing in digital transformation, automation and data-informed decision-making. Sustainability, workforce wellbeing and adapting to changing market conditions are also becoming important business priorities, creating opportunities for leaders who can guide organisations through change.

What employers and industry want in graduates

  • Leadership and people-management skills
  • Strong decision-making and problem-solving ability
  • Clear communication and stakeholder engagement
  • Strategic and commercial thinking
  • Adaptability in changing environments
  • Ability to lead teams towards shared goals

AUT programmes

The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.

Content is reviewed by our experts, but information can change over time. Some content is created with AI support.

This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.