Hospitality and tourism is always a key contributor to Canada’s economy. Based on the numbers provided by Statistics Canada in 2024, Tourism succeeded in accounting for 13% of service exports and has grown since then. Destination Canada also stated that the tourism sector would be fully recovered by 2024; while this sector provided a total of 1.9 million job openings, newcomers in Canada made up to about 30% in the tourism labor force.

In this article, we will be sharing a variety of hospitality and tourism jobs are in high demand in Canada now. Multiple jobs could earn you an annual salary of up to $130,000.

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Hospitality management vs hotel management

Hospitality management and hotel management are closely related fields, but they have distinct differences. Here’s a comparison to help you understand them

Aspect	Hospitality Management	Hotel Management
Scope:	Broad Industry: Encompasses a wide range of sectors including hotels, restaurants, event planning, travel and tourism, luxury services, and more. Offers careers in various areas such as food and beverage management, event management, cruise ship management, and resort management.	Focused Industry: Specifically targets the hotel sector, including accommodations, housekeeping, front desk operations, and property management. Provides in-depth knowledge and skills related to running a hotel.
Curriculum	Comprehensive: Covers a wide array of subjects including marketing, finance, human resources, customer service, and operations management.	Specialized Courses: Focuses on subjects such as hotel operations, room division management, housekeeping, front office management, and food and beverage service.
Skills	Versatile Skill Set: Emphasizes leadership, communication, customer service, and business management. Prepares students to work in various hospitality sectors.	Operational Expertise: Emphasizes skills needed to manage the day-to-day operations of a hotel. Focuses on customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, and quality control.
Career Paths	Varied Roles: Graduates can work in hotels, resorts, cruise lines, event planning companies, theme parks, and more. The skills acquired are transferable across different countries and cultures	Hotel-Specific Roles: Graduates typically pursue careers in hotel management, such as front office manager, housekeeping manager, food and beverage manager, and general manager. Opportunities for advancement within the hotel industry, from entry-level positions to executive roles.

In summary, both fields offer rewarding careers, but your choice should align with your specific interests and long-term career aspirations.

Career Opportunities for hospitality management in Canada

Career opportunities for individuals with a background in hospitality management in Canada are diverse and span various sectors within the industry. Here are some potential career paths:

Hotel and Resort Management

General Manager: Overseeing all operations, staff, and budgeting.
Front Office Manager: Managing guest services, reservations, and front desk operations.
Housekeeping Manager: Supervising cleaning staff and ensuring guest rooms and public areas are well-maintained.
Food and Beverage Manager: Managing restaurant and bar services, including menu planning and staff supervision.

Restaurant and Food Service Management

Restaurant Manager: Overseeing daily operations, staff, and customer service in a restaurant.
Catering Manager: Managing catering services for events, including menu planning and staff coordination.
Food Service Director: Leading food service operations in institutions such as schools, hospitals, and corporate settings.

Event and Convention Management

Event Planner/Coordinator: Organizing and managing events, from weddings to corporate conferences.
Convention Services Manager: Coordinating large-scale events and conventions, including logistics and vendor management.
Meeting and Convention Planner: Planning and executing meetings and conventions for businesses and organizations.

Tourism and Travel Management

Tour Operator/Manager: Creating and managing travel packages and tours.
Travel Consultant/Agent: Assisting clients with travel arrangements and bookings.
Tourism Development Officer: Working with government or private organizations to promote and develop tourism.

Casino and Gaming Management

Casino Manager: Overseeing casino operations, including gaming, customer service, and compliance with regulations.
Gaming Manager: Managing specific gaming areas within a casino, such as table games or slot machines.

Cruise Line and Airline Management

Cruise Director: Managing onboard entertainment and guest activities on a cruise ship.
Airline Services Manager: Overseeing in-flight services, customer service, and ground operations for an airline.

Hospitality Consulting and Training

Hospitality Consultant: Providing expert advice to hospitality businesses on improving operations, customer service, and profitability.
Hospitality Trainer: Developing and delivering training programs for hospitality staff.

Entrepreneurship

Restaurant Owner: Starting and managing your own restaurant or food service business.
Boutique Hotel Owner: Establishing and operating a small, unique hotel or bed and breakfast.

Marketing and Sales

Sales and Marketing Manager: Promoting hospitality services and products to increase revenue and market share.
Public Relations Specialist: Managing the public image and communications for a hospitality business.

Spa and Wellness Management

Spa Manager: Overseeing spa operations, including treatments, staff, and customer service.
Wellness Program Director: Developing and managing wellness programs and services.

These opportunities highlight the wide range of career paths available to hospitality management professionals in Canada, offering roles that cater to different interests and skill sets within the industry. If you want to kick-start your career in hospitality industry, a qualified diploma would be an effective and cost-saving option for you.

Hospitality Management Program at Create Career College (CCC College)

Create Career College is offering 3 Hospitality Management Program:

Hospitality Management Certificate

This certificate program offers 4 months academic lectures with 4 months full-time co-op work experience, which includes introduction of hospitality work culture, housekeeping, front office operation and food and beverage management for students to begin their career in hospitality industry.

Hospitality Management 2-year Diploma

This 2-year diploma provides comprehensive concept and knowledge of hospitality management with a year with full-time co-op work experience. This program is partnered with the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI), student will earn up to 12 certificates and a diploma upon graduation. Upon the completion of the diploma, students are expected acquire all essential job-ready skills in current hospitality industry.

Travel and Tourism Management Diploma

This short term program contains 650 hours of academic lecture with 150 practicum hours, students will acquire knowledge relating to marketing, human resource management, travel agency operation and more. Students will have internship opportunities to work in local travel and tourism businesses to practice their knowledge and skills.

These programs are designed to equip students with the latest, comprehensive knowledge and skills essential in the hospitality industry. In partnership with the American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI), Create Career College offers a distinguished Hospitality Management Diploma program with Co-op opportunities. AHLEI, recognized as the premier leader in Hospitality Certification, ensures the highest industry standards.

Students at Create Career College undergo monthly AHLEI certificate tests, earning up to 12 certificates and a diploma/certificate upon graduation.

If you are looking to advance academically in the hospitality industry, the CCC hospitality management course is an excellent choice.

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What jobs can I get with a hospitality management degree or diploma?

A background in hospitality management may open a variety of job opportunities. Here are some of the career paths you can take.

Hotel Manager/General Manager

Hotel general managers apply their business, management, and interpersonal skills to manage the daily operations of hotels, motels, lodges, inns, or resorts. Department heads from various divisions report directly to them, requiring the general manager to be knowledgeable about all aspects of hotel management. Departments in a hotel can include:

Accounts
Food and Beverage Services
Front Office
Housekeeping
Human Resources
Information Technology
Kitchen and Food Production
Maintenance and Engineering
Marketing and Sales
Purchasing
Security

The educational requirements for a hotel general manager vary depending on the size of the hotel. For a full-service hotel, a bachelor’s degree in hotel management or hospitality is usually necessary. Smaller hotels may hire general managers with an associate degree, while luxury hotels may require a master’s degree in hospitality management.

The average annual salary for a hotel general manager in Canada varies depending on factors such as location, the size of the hotel, and the specific responsibilities of the role. Generally, the salary range can be quite broad, but a rough estimate would place it between CAD 60,000 to CAD 120,000 per year. Larger hotels or those in major cities may offer salaries at the higher end of this range, while smaller establishments or those in less expensive regions might offer salaries at the lower end.

Front Desk Agent/Receptionist

Front Desk Agents or Receptionists play a crucial role in the hospitality industry, as they are often the first point of contact for guests. Their responsibilities typically include:

Guest Reception and Check-In/Check-Out: Greeting guests upon arrival, checking them in, providing information about services and amenities, and ensuring a smooth check-out process.
Reservation Management: Handling reservations, cancellations, and modifications, ensuring accuracy in booking details.
Customer Service: Addressing guest inquiries, requests, and complaints promptly and professionally, aiming to resolve issues to the satisfaction of guests.
Payment Processing: Handling guest payments, including processing credit card transactions, and managing cash transactions accurately.
Communication: Serving as a liaison between guests and other hotel departments, conveying messages and requests effectively.
Information Resource: Providing information about local attractions, dining options, transportation, and other services both within the hotel and in the surrounding area.
Administrative Duties: Performing administrative tasks such as handling emails, answering phone calls, maintaining guest records, and preparing reports.

Skills required for Front Desk Agents or Receptionists include:

Customer Service Skills: Ability to interact with guests in a friendly, courteous, and professional manner.
Communication Skills: Strong verbal and written communication skills to effectively interact with guests and colleagues.
Organizational Skills: Ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, prioritize workload, and manage time effectively.
Problem-Solving Skills: Capacity to quickly assess situations, address guest concerns, and resolve issues diplomatically.
Attention to Detail: Accuracy in handling guest information, reservations, and financial transactions.
Computer Literacy: Proficiency in using hotel management software, reservation systems, and basic office software (e.g., Microsoft Office).
Flexibility and Adaptability: Willingness to work varying shifts, including weekends and holidays, and ability to adapt to changing situations in a fast-paced environment.
Team Player: Collaboration with other hotel staff to ensure seamless guest experiences and efficient hotel operations.

Overall, Front Desk Agents or Receptionists are pivotal in creating a positive first impression for guests and ensuring their overall satisfaction during their stay.

The average salary for a Front Desk Agent or Receptionist in Canada can vary based on factors such as location, experience, and the specific employer. Generally, the range can be between CAD 30,000 to CAD 45,000 per year.

Housekeeping Staff/Housekeeping Manager

Housekeeping Staff and Housekeeping Managers play essential roles in maintaining cleanliness and orderliness in hotels and other hospitality establishments. Here’s an overview of their job responsibilities and the skills typically required:

Housekeeping Staff Responsibilities:

Room Cleaning: Cleaning and maintaining guest rooms, ensuring high standards of cleanliness and hygiene.
Linen and Laundry Management: Changing bed linens, replenishing amenities, and managing laundry operations.
Public Area Cleaning: Cleaning and maintaining common areas such as lobbies, corridors, and restrooms.
Inventory Control: Monitoring and replenishing cleaning supplies and amenities.
Guest Interaction: Responding to guest requests promptly and courteously.
Compliance: Adhering to health and safety standards and hotel policies.

Housekeeping Manager Responsibilities:

Staff Supervision: Managing and supervising housekeeping staff, including hiring, training, and scheduling.
Quality Control: Ensuring cleanliness standards are met through inspections and training programs.
Inventory and Budget Management: Monitoring and managing housekeeping supplies, equipment, and budget.
Coordination: Collaborating with other departments such as front office and maintenance to ensure smooth operations.
Reporting: Preparing reports on occupancy, cleanliness metrics, and staff performance.
Guest Satisfaction: Addressing guest concerns related to housekeeping and ensuring high guest satisfaction scores.

Skills Required:

Attention to Detail: Ensuring rooms and public areas are cleaned to high standards.
Time Management: Efficiently managing workload and meeting deadlines.
Teamwork: Collaborating effectively with colleagues and other departments.
Communication: Clear and courteous communication with guests and colleagues.
Physical Stamina: Ability to handle physical tasks such as lifting and bending.
Problem-Solving: Addressing and resolving issues that arise during daily operations.

Average Salary:

The salary range is approximately CAD 30,000 to CAD 50,000 per year for Housekeeping Staff, while Housekeeping Managers may earn between CAD 45,000 to CAD 70,000 per year. These figures can vary significantly depending on the specific employer and the region within Canada.

Sales and Marketing Manager

A Hospitality Sales and Marketing Manager is responsible for driving revenue through effective sales and marketing strategies in the hospitality industry. Here are the typical job responsibilities and skills required for this role:

Job Responsibilities:

Sales Strategy Development: Developing and implementing sales strategies to achieve revenue targets, including setting sales goals and analyzing market trends.
Marketing Campaigns: Planning and executing marketing campaigns to attract guests and increase brand awareness.
Relationship Management: Building and maintaining relationships with corporate clients, travel agencies, and other potential sources of business.
Revenue Management: Optimizing room rates, packages, and promotions to maximize revenue.
Market Analysis: Conducting market research and competitive analysis to identify opportunities and threats.
Budget Management: Managing the sales and marketing budget effectively.
Team Leadership: Leading and motivating the sales and marketing team to achieve objectives.
Reporting: Analyzing sales and marketing performance and preparing reports for management.

Skills Required:

Sales Skills: Strong negotiation and persuasion skills to close deals and build client relationships.
Marketing Expertise: Knowledge of digital marketing, advertising, and branding strategies.
Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to effectively convey messages to clients and team members.
Analytical Thinking: Ability to analyze data and market trends to make informed decisions.
Leadership: Ability to lead and inspire a team towards achieving sales targets.
Customer Focus: Commitment to delivering excellent customer service and enhancing guest experience.
Organizational Skills: Ability to prioritize tasks, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines.

Average Salary:

The salary range typically falls between CAD 60,000 to CAD 100,000 per year. Higher salaries may be offered by larger hotels or luxury properties, especially in major urban centers, while smaller establishments or those in less competitive markets may offer salaries towards the lower end of this range.

Event Planner

An Event Planner is responsible for coordinating and executing various types of events, ranging from corporate meetings and conferences to weddings, parties, and other social gatherings. Here are the typical job responsibilities and skills required for this role:

Job Responsibilities:

Event Planning: Planning and organizing all aspects of events, including venue selection, catering, entertainment, decorations, and logistics.
Budget Management: Developing and managing event budgets, ensuring expenditures stay within budgetary limits.
Vendor Coordination: Negotiating contracts with vendors and managing relationships with caterers, florists, decorators, and other suppliers.
Client Communication: Consulting with clients to understand their event needs, preferences, and budget constraints.
Logistics Management: Overseeing event setup, ensuring all arrangements are in place and handling any on-site issues that may arise.
Marketing and Promotion: Promoting events through various channels to attract attendees and ensure successful participation.
Post-Event Evaluation: Evaluating the success of events, gathering feedback from clients and attendees, and preparing post-event reports.

Skills Required:

Organizational Skills: Ability to manage multiple events simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines.
Communication: Strong interpersonal and communication skills to interact effectively with clients, vendors, and team members.
Negotiation: Skill in negotiating contracts and pricing with vendors to achieve the best value for clients.
Creativity: Ability to develop unique event concepts and themes that align with client preferences and objectives.
Problem-Solving: Capacity to anticipate and resolve potential issues during event planning and execution.
Attention to Detail: Ensuring all event details, from seating arrangements to technical setups, are meticulously planned and executed.
Flexibility: Adaptability to handle last-minute changes and unexpected challenges during events.

Average Salary:

The salary range typically falls between CAD 40,000 to CAD 70,000 per year. Event planners with extensive experience, specialization in certain types of events, or those working in larger metropolitan areas may earn salaries toward the higher end of this range.

Food and Beverage Manager

A Food and Beverage (F&B) Manager plays a crucial role in overseeing the food and beverage operations within a hospitality establishment, such as hotels, restaurants, resorts, or catering companies. Here are the typical job responsibilities and skills required for this role:

Job Responsibilities:

Menu Planning and Development: Creating menus that appeal to guests while ensuring profitability and aligning with the establishment’s brand and concept.
Food Quality Control: Ensuring consistent food quality, taste, and presentation by monitoring kitchen operations and working closely with chefs and kitchen staff.
Beverage Management: Overseeing beverage offerings, including selection, pricing, inventory management, and quality control.
Cost Management: Managing food and beverage costs through inventory control, portion control, waste reduction, and effective purchasing practices.
Staff Supervision and Training: Hiring, training, and supervising F&B staff, including servers, bartenders, chefs, and kitchen staff.
Customer Service: Ensuring exceptional customer service by addressing guest feedback and resolving any issues related to food and beverage service.
Health and Safety Compliance: Ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations, including food safety standards and sanitation practices.
Event Coordination: Organizing and overseeing F&B services for events such as banquets, conferences, weddings, and other special occasions.

Skills Required:

Leadership: Ability to lead and motivate a diverse team of F&B professionals.
Communication: Excellent communication skills to interact effectively with guests, staff, suppliers, and management.
Financial Acumen: Strong understanding of budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting.
Problem-Solving: Capacity to anticipate and address operational challenges proactively.
Attention to Detail: Ensuring accuracy in menu planning, ordering, and service execution.
Creativity: Ability to innovate and introduce new menu items and concepts.
Flexibility: Adaptability to handle changing demands and last-minute requests in a fast-paced environment.

Average Salary:

The salary range typically falls between CAD 50,000 to CAD 80,000 per year.

How to get a job in the hospitality industry

Securing a job in the hospitality industry in Canada involves several steps, from acquiring the necessary education and experience to networking and job searching. Increase your chances of building a successful career in the hospitality industry by:

1. Education and Training

Degree/Diploma: Obtain a degree or diploma in hospitality management or a related field. Many Canadian institutions offer specialized programs.
Certifications: Consider obtaining relevant certifications such as AHLEI certificates, ServSafe, Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS), or Food Safety Certification.

2. Gain Experience

Internships: Participate in internships or co-op programs offered by your educational institution to gain practical experience.
Entry-Level Jobs: Start with entry-level positions such as front desk clerk, server, or housekeeping staff to build foundational skills.

3. Develop Skills

Customer Service: Focus on developing excellent customer service skills, as they are crucial in hospitality roles.
Soft Skills: Enhance your communication, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
Technical Skills: Learn to use hospitality management software and other relevant technologies.

4. Identifying which hospitality sector best suits you

The hospitality industry includes diverse careers and professions, making it an excellent sector for workers with various skills and personality types. Whether you’re an introvert who prefers to work alone or a bubbly, conversational individual, hospitality has something for everyone. If you want to work in a hotel, consider which department or position best fits you.

Front desk: Front-facing, customer-focused positions, great for outgoing personality types

Housekeeping: Back-of-the-house positions, perfect for task-oriented or meticulous employees

F&B: Front-facing and back-of-house positions available, often working in a busy, high-stress environment

Maintenance: Skill-based and goal-focused positions that require big-picture thinkers with excellent task-management skills

Meetings and events: A range of primarily forward-facing positions available for event planners, organizers, coordinators, and more

5. Job Search

Online Job Portals: Use job search websites like Indeed, Workopolis, and LinkedIn to find job listings.
Company Websites: Check the career pages of major hotel chains, restaurants, and tourism companies for job openings.
Recruitment Agencies: Consider using recruitment agencies that specialize in the hospitality industry.

6. Prepare Your Application

Resume: Create a professional resume highlighting your education, experience, and relevant skills.
Cover Letter: Write a tailored cover letter for each job application, emphasizing your passion for hospitality and your suitability for the role.
References: Prepare a list of professional references who can vouch for your skills and experience.

7. Apply for Jobs

Job Portals: Apply through online job portals by submitting your resume and cover letter.
Direct Applications: Apply directly on company websites or through email if specified in the job listing.
Follow-Up: Follow up on your applications if you don’t hear back within a couple of weeks.

8. Continuous Learning

Professional Development: Engage in continuous learning and professional development to stay updated with industry trends and advancements.
Advanced Certifications: Pursue advanced certifications and courses to enhance your career prospects.

Additional Tips

Language Skills: Proficiency in English and/or French is essential. Being multilingual can be an added advantage.
Cultural Adaptability: Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and adaptability, especially in diverse work environments.

By following these steps and staying persistent, you can increase your chances of securing a job in the hospitality industry in Canada.

Is hospitality management easy to learn?

The difficulty of a hospitality management diploma or degree program can vary depending on several factors, including individual aptitude, background, and the specific institution. However, here are some general points to consider:

Quality of Education

Canada is known for its high-quality education system, and many institutions offer well-regarded hospitality management programs. For instance, Create Career College offers 2 options: one is the short-term 1-year Diploma program with more time to study the theories and practical knowledge. If students have enough time, they can choose to enroll in the 2-year Diploma program, with one whole year’s co-op practice hands-on experience to complete before graduation. In both options, students can obtain AHLEI certifications upon the completion of each course.

Curriculum

The curriculum typically includes both theoretical and practical components, covering topics such as hotel operations, food and beverage management, event planning, and tourism. Programs often include internships or co-op placements, providing hands-on experience. This combination can greatly help students learn effectively and professionally.

Language

Courses are predominantly in English (or French in certain regions), so proficiency in these languages is essential. In CCC, if you don’t currently hold a language proficiency test result, you can also take our placement test online, which can help you save the time and money to take other tests.

Support Systems

Canadian institutions usually offer various support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career services, to help students succeed. CCC provides Co-op education training classes and 1v1 Co-op support for all students to get them prepared for the Co-op placements.

Industry Connections

Canada’s hospitality industry is robust, providing numerous opportunities for networking and gaining real-world experience. In CCC’s Hospitality classes, apart from the Co-op experience, which can be a significant source of industry connections, CCC also invites guest speakers to give a speech in our Hospitality class. These guest speakers often share their extensive industry knowledge and experience and interact with all students in class and can also be a point of reference for students’ industry connections in future.

Cultural Adjustment

For international students, adjusting to a new culture can be challenging but also enriching. Canada is known for its diversity and welcoming atmosphere, which can ease this transition.

In brief, hospitality management is not a particularly challenging program and can be a good fit for students interested in the industry who meet the language requirements set by their college or university. With the right mindset, support, and effort, most students find the program rewarding and fulfilling.

What is the typical courses for hospitality management program?

A typical Hospitality Management (HM) program includes a mix of core courses, specialized courses, and practical experiences designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge for a career in the hospitality industry. Here is an overview of common courses you might find in a Hospitality Management program:

Core Courses

Introduction to Hospitality Management
- Overview of the hospitality industry, including history, current trends, and career opportunities.
Hospitality Marketing and Sales

- Principles of marketing and sales tailored to the hospitality industry, including branding, advertising, and customer relationship management.

Financial Management in Hospitality

- Basics of accounting, financial analysis, budgeting, and cost control specific to hospitality operations.

Human Resource Management

- Recruitment, training, performance management, and labor relations within the hospitality industry.

Hospitality Law and Ethics

- Legal and ethical issues in hospitality, including contracts, liability, and regulatory compliance.

Service Management

- Techniques for delivering high-quality customer service and managing customer satisfaction.

Operations Management

- Principles of managing daily operations in hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality establishments.

Practical Experience

Internship or Practicum

- Hands-on experience working in a hospitality setting, providing practical skills and industry connections.

Capstone Project

- A comprehensive project that integrates knowledge from various courses, often involving real-world problem-solving in a hospitality context.

Additional Skills Development

Communication Skills

- Enhancing verbal and written communication skills specific to hospitality contexts.

Leadership and Team Management

- Developing leadership skills and strategies for managing teams effectively.

Cross-Cultural Management

- Understanding cultural differences and managing diverse teams in a global hospitality environment.

CCC provides all the essential skills training listed above and Students at Create Career College undergo monthly AHLEI certificate tests of all core courses, earning up to 12 certificates and a diploma upon graduation. Students can also complete Co-op that integrates knowledge from various courses, engaging in real-world problem-solving in a hospitality context.

Hospitality Management FAQ

What is the difference between hospitality and hotel management?

Hospitality management and hotel management are closely related fields, but hospitality is focusing on a broad industry while hotel management is one of the hospitality sector, specifically target hotel field. Both fields offer rewarding careers, but your choice should align with your specific interests and long-term career aspirations if you deciding to relating diploma or degree.

How can I get a job in hospitality management field?

To have higher opportunities to get a hospitality job in Canada, you are suggested to enroll in qualified hospitality diploma or degree for comprehensive knowledge and job-ready skills. CCC College provides 2-year and other short term programs for students with co-op full-time work experience(depends on program structure) to choose. Upon the completion of the program, students will acquire all essential elements to meet industry standard to secure a hospitality job in Canada.

How long does it take to develop career path in hospitality industry?

It depends on the job level and sector students are focusing on. Becoming a worker in hospitality industry can take anywhere from 3 months to 4 years. A Bachelor’s degree takes 3-4 years, a diploma or certificate takes 7 months to 2 years, and intensive boot camps or online courses can take 3 months to 2 years.

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