To examine the role of formal qualifications in the career development of contemporary hotel general managers in Scotland.
A questionnaire was used which provided a sound basis for comparing the opinions, performance and career paths of both formally qualified and unqualified general managers.
Key findings identified that formal qualifications were an integral part of career development. They facilitated career moves between companies and allowed prospective managers to “fast‐track” to general management status. Formal qualifications were considered particularly beneficial in developing those functional managerial skills required to succeed.
At this present time of change within the industry, the existing move towards a more business perspective in the role of hotel general manager may in fact be influencing the development of managers’ mid‐career. The actual importance today of food and beverage positions may be far less than it has been during the career development of those managers within the sample. If this proves to be the case, there may be a developing trend of managers entering from outside the industry, directly to general management positions. This poses implications for the seemingly “established” career path of hotel general manager through food and beverage functions and deputy/assistant managerial positions.
The conclusions may also present implications for educationists trying to meet the needs of the industry in developing effective managers and for individuals in the development of their careers.
