General Manager: missions, skills, training, salary and career development

The role of General Manager, also known as Managing Director, is crucial to the strategy and development of modern companies. Responsible for the overall direction of the organisation, the General Manager plays a key role in defining the vision, implementing the strategy, and ensuring the performance and sustainability of the business. This position requires a wide range of leadership, strategic management and decision-making skills to navigate a complex and constantly changing business environment.

Description of the General Manager's job

The General Manager is the most senior executive in a company or major business unit. He or she is responsible for strategic direction, overseeing operations, financial management and representing the company to internal and external stakeholders. The General Manager works closely with the Board of Directors and leads the management team to achieve the company's objectives.

What is the role and missions of the General Manager?

Developing corporate strategy

The General Manager develops and implements the company's overall vision and strategy. He or she defines long-term objectives, identifies growth opportunities, assesses risks, and determines the actions needed to ensure the organisation's competitiveness and profitability.

Managing and optimising operations

He oversees all the company's operations, ensuring efficiency and synergy between the various departments. This involves managing resources, optimising processes and taking strategic decisions to improve overall performance.

Performance analysis and reporting

The General Manager is responsible for analysing the company's key performance indicators (KPIs). He or she uses this data to assess the effectiveness of the strategies implemented, identify areas for improvement, and report to the Board of Directors and shareholders.

Stakeholder relations management

The General Manager represents the company in dealings with investors, commercial partners, regulatory authorities and other external stakeholders. The General Manager also plays a crucial role in building and maintaining the corporate culture.

Tools and technologies used by the General Manager

Integrated management systems (ERP)

Systems such as SAP, Oracle and Microsoft Dynamics are used to gain an overview of company operations and facilitate decision-making based on real-time data.

Analysis and reporting tools

Platforms such as Tableau, Power BI, and QlikView are essential for in-depth analysis of company data and the creation of detailed reports for the board of directors and investors.

Strategic management tools

Solutions such as Planview, Cascade and Workboard are used for strategic planning, monitoring objectives and aligning teams with the company's vision.

Communication and collaboration tools

Platforms such as Microsoft Teams, Slack and Zoom facilitate communication and collaboration within the management team and with the wider organisation.

What skills do you need to be a good General Manager?

Professional skills :

• Mastery of strategic planning and business management
• Expertise in corporate finance and financial analysis
• In-depth understanding of legal and regulatory issues
• Ability to manage risks and crises
• Advanced negotiation and business development skills

Personal skills :

• Visionary leadership and ability to inspire and motivate teams
• Strategic decision-making in complex environments
• Analytical thinking and problem solving
• Strong emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills
• Adaptability and resilience in the face of rapid market change

What are the current challenges facing General Managers?

• Navigating an uncertain economic and geopolitical environment
• Managing digital transformation and disruptive innovation
• Responding to the challenges of sustainability and corporate social responsibility
• Attracting and retaining talent in a competitive labour market
• Balancing short-term objectives with the company's long-term vision

How do I become a General Manager?

Education and training

To become a General Manager, you generally need :

• at least 5 years' higher education, ideally an MBA or equivalent from a leading business school
• Additional training in executive leadership, change management and corporate governance may be useful.

EM Normandie offers courses tailored to this profession, in particular the MSc International Marketing and Business Development. This course provides the necessary skills in strategy, business management and data analysis, offering a complete preparation for becoming a successful Manager.

Professional experience

Significant experience (typically 15 years or more) in management positions, with demonstrable progression into leadership roles and experience in P&L management is essential.

Career development and prospects for a General Manager

• Moving into general management of a larger or more complex company
• Appointment to the position of CEO in a large company
• Joining the board of directors of various companies
• Setting up your own company or moving into private equity
• Career as a strategic consultant for senior executives

How much does a General Manager earn?

The salary of a General Manager varies considerably depending on the size of the company, the sector of activity and the location:

• SME or start-up: €80,000 - €150,000 per annum
• Mid-sized company: €150,000 - €250,000 per annum
• Large company or multinational: €250,000 and more, often with significant bonuses and long-term profit-sharing schemes

What does a General Manager do?

A variety of employers:

General Managers can work in a variety of organisations, including :

• Large companies and international groups
• SMEs and mid-sized companies
• High-growthstart-ups
• Non-profit organisations and public institutions

Main sectors :

A General Manager can work in virtually any sector of activity, including :

• Industry and manufacturing
• Digital technologies and services
• Financial services and banking
• Health and life sciences
• Retail and consumer goods
• Energy and environment

In summary

The job of General Manager is a key leadership position within modern organisations. It requires a unique combination of strategic vision, operational expertise and leadership skills. General Managers play a crucial role in setting the direction of the business, managing performance, and creating long-term value for all stakeholders. With the rapidly changing business landscape, General Managers must constantly adapt, innovate and guide their organisations through complex challenges and emerging opportunities. It's a demanding but rewarding role, offering significant career prospects and the chance to make a real impact on the success and sustainability of businesses.