General Manager
Name: Jyana Mareko
Career stage: 10+ years' experience
Working: Office
High School Subjects: English Ext 2, Physics, Chemistry, Maths Ext 2
Favourite: I loved problem solving, using mathematical principals with interesting real-world applications
Further study: University
where and what: Bachelor of Business, UTS
"Being a General Manager is like running the show behind the scenes. What I really like is being the one to make important calls that shape where the company is headed.”
THE INSIDE SCOOP…
What does a General Manager actually do? Think of a General Manager as the CEO or leader of a company, but instead of overseeing all aspects of a business, they focus on managing and optimizing the performance of an organization. Examples of a General Manager’s responsibilities include: Strategic Leadership - General managers are like the strategic masterminds behind the scenes. They formulate the overall game plan for the organization, setting goals, and making decisions that will guide the team towards success. Talent Management - General managers scout and recruit employees who fit the company’s culture or style and can contribute to its success. Resource Management - Managing company resources is a key aspect of the role. This includes budgeting, deciding where to invest, and making sure departments have what they need to operate efficiently. Problem Solving – Challenges and conflicts can arise in any organization. General managers are skilled problem-solvers, addressing issues that might hinder the company's progress and ensuring a smooth operation. Stakeholder Relations – Much like a CEO interacts with shareholders and the public, a general manager builds relationships with various stakeholders—investors, clients, and partners. They represent the company's interests and maintain a positive public image. Long-Term Planning - Success isn't just about short-term gains; it's about sustainable growth. General managers engage in long-term planning, anticipating market trends, and making decisions that position the company for continued success. Adaptability - Businesses operate in dynamic environments. General managers need to adapt to changes in the market, industry, or internal dynamics, making strategic adjustments to keep the company competitive. In essence, a general manager in a company is the captain of the ship, steering it through the complexities of the business world. Their role involves shaping the company's identity, fostering a positive working environment, and making decisions that contribute to long-term prosperity.
What does a day in your life at work look like? The daily routine of a general manager often varies, but here is a general overview of what a typical day might involve: Morning Planning and Review: Start the day by reviewing emails, reports, and updates from the previous day. Prioritize tasks for the day and set goals. Check in with key team members or department heads for updates. Meetings: Attend various meetings, including Leadership team meetings, department updates, and project-specific discussions. Collaborate with other managers and team leaders to ensure alignment with overall company goals. Address any urgent issues or decisions that require attention. Strategic Planning: Devote time to strategic thinking and planning for the company's future. Analyze market trends, industry developments, and competitive landscapes. Consider long-term goals and initiatives for sustained growth. People Management: Meet with HR or team leaders to discuss personnel matters, including recruitment, employee development, and performance reviews. Address any HR-related issues or concerns within the organization. Operational Oversight: Check in on the day-to-day operations of various departments. Ensure that the company is running efficiently and that teams have the necessary resources to meet their objectives. Review operational reports and metrics. External Relations: Engage with external stakeholders, such as clients, partners, investors, or regulatory bodies. Attend industry events, conferences, or networking opportunities to stay informed and build relationships. Problem-Solving: Tackle any unforeseen challenges or problems that may arise during the day. Work with teams to find effective solutions to operational or strategic issues. Decision-Making: Make critical decisions on issues ranging from resource allocation to strategic direction. Consult with key team members and stakeholders before making major decisions. Afternoon and Evening Wrap-Up: Conclude the day by reviewing progress against goals. Respond to any outstanding emails or communication. Prepare for the next day's priorities and schedule.
What's the best part of your job? Being a General Manager is like running the show behind the scenes. What I really like is being the one to make important calls that shape where the company is headed. It's like playing a smart game where I set goals and work out the best ways to reach them. Every day throws new challenges at me, and I've got to think on my feet to find solutions. It's a bit like being the problem-solver-in-chief, and that's what keeps things interesting!
What made you realise construction could be for you? The first 10 years of my career were in banking and finance, with a focus on international business. I then "fell into" the construction industry with an opportunity to work with a small engineering firm and apply my business management experience and skills developed into a new industry.
What would you tell your high school self about working in construction? If I could offer advice to my 15-year-old self about career choices, I would strongly encourage having conversations with a career advisor early on. Share your passion for physics and mathematics with them and inquire about careers that align with these interests... hopefully they tell you about engineering! Don't be fixated on becoming a doctor or lawyer because that's what is "expected" when you do well at school. Otherwise, participate in extracurricular activities affiliated with universities - this will help you gain a deeper understanding of various professions and careers, and potentially help you find a career that you'll love!
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