OCCUPATION: HOTEL GENERAL MANAGER

Name: Philip D. Campanelli Company: Grand Hotel, Anaheim Thumbs up: “This field presents continuous challenges in business development, marketing, expense reduction and guest service. With 300 to 3,000 different guests each day from around the globe, we have the opportunity to experience international culture as a part of our daily routine.” Thumbs down: “When hundreds of people attempt to register or check out at the same time, it gets very challenging. But we respond by cross-training our employees. Everyone helps out during busy times.” Next step: General manager of a larger hotel Advice: “Requires juggling multiple tasks and the ability to handle serious situations in a calm and professional manner. Excessive overtime can be expected during busy periods. This is a service industry, so a positive attitude is a must.” Salary range: In Orange County, from $24,000 to over $100,000 a year, depending on the number of rooms and hotel revenue. Hours: Hotel general managers often work well beyond the average 40-hour work week. A 50- to 60-hour week is not unusual. Additional hours may be required during peak periods. Educational and training requirements: Bachelor’s degree in hotel-restaurant management combined with five to 10 years of experience. Size of work force: Small. In Orange County, about 100 people work as hotel general managers. Expected demand: Light. But when the economy improves new hotels will be developed and additional management positions will open up. Job description: Hotel general managers are involved in all aspects of daily operations. In addition to administrative tasks, they participate in sales and marketing, oversee room reservations and coordinate the activities of various department heads. Customer and community relations are an important aspect of the job. Major employing industries: Major lodging chains and independently owned hotels. For more information: Contact the Orange Coast College Hotel Management Program (714) 432-5835 or the Cal Poly Pomona School of Hotel and Restaurant Management (909) 869-2275. Researched by JANICE L. JONES / Los Angeles Times