Employment of lodging managers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2014 to 2024, about as fast as the average for all occupations.
Expected growth in tourism, travel, and higher occupancy levels will contribute to the need for managers. However, as the lodging industry transitions toward more limited-service hotels and fewer full-service properties that have separate departments to manage—such as in-house restaurants and laundry—employment growth will be limited.
Some lodging places continue to streamline operations to cut expenses. Chain hotels, for instance, may choose to assign a single manager to oversee multiple properties within a local geographic area. Still, some large full-service hotels, including casinos, resorts, and convention hotels that provide a wide range of services to a larger customer base, will continue to generate jobs for experienced managers.
Job Prospects
Those seeking jobs at hotels with the highest level of guest services are expected to face strong competition, as these positions are highly sought after by people trained in hospitality management or administration.
Applicants with a bachelor's degree in hospitality or hotel management are expected to have the best job opportunities, particularly at upscale and luxury hotels.
Lodging Managers
Percent change in employment, projected 2014-24
Lodging managers
8%
Total, all occupations
7%
Management occupations
6%
Note: All Occupations includes all occupations in the U.S. Economy. Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program