Restaurant managers oversee daily operations, ensuring excellent customer service, efficient staff performance, and profitability while maintaining the restaurant’s standards and reputation.
What is a typical day as a Restaurant Manager?
– Supervising staff, including waiters, chefs, and kitchen assistants, to ensure smooth operations.
– Interacting with customers to address concerns and gather feedback
– Monitoring inventory and placing orders for food, beverages, and supplies
– Managing daily sales, tracking revenue, and preparing financial reports
What else might they be expected to do?
– Develop and implement strategies to attract customers and improve profitability
– Ensure compliance with health, safety, and hygiene standards
– Hire, train, and schedule staff for peak hours and special events
– Collaborate with chefs to design menus that meet customer preferences and trends
What type of training is needed for this career path?
– A degree or diploma in Hospitality Management, Culinary Arts, or Business Administration is advantageous.
– Certifications in food safety and hygiene, such as HACCP or ServSafe, are essential.
– On-the-job experience in restaurant operations is highly valuable.
What kind of personality is needed to excel in this career path?
– Organized, customer-focused, and adaptable individuals excel in this role.
– Big 5 Traits: High conscientiousness, agreeableness, and extraversion.
– Myers-Briggs Types: ESTJ (practical and efficient) or ENFJ (caring and people-focused).
What kind of interests do people in this career path have?
– Enterprising (E): Interest in leading teams and driving business growth.
– Social (S): Passion for engaging with customers and ensuring satisfaction.
– Conventional (C): Preference for structured tasks like managing schedules and budgets
What types of organizations hire for this role?
– Restaurant managers work in fine dining establishments, casual dining restaurants, fast food chains, hotels, catering services, and cruise ships
What challenges can I expect to face if I pursue this career path?
– Managing staff turnover and ensuring consistent team performance
– Balancing profitability with high-quality service and customer satisfaction
– Handling unexpected challenges, such as equipment failure or supply shortages
What are the job prospects for this path in Kenya and Africa? What about International prospects for a Kenyan citizen?
– Kenya and Africa: Opportunities are growing in urban areas, tourist destinations, and luxury hotels, with demand for skilled restaurant managers in both independent and chain establishments.
– International: Kenyan restaurant managers with certifications and experience in global cuisines are competitive for roles in international chains, cruise ships, or resorts.
What should I focus on if I choose to pursue this career?
– Develop expertise in staff management, customer service, and financial planning.
– Gain knowledge of global food trends and dietary preferences to attract diverse customers.
– Stay updated on emerging technologies in restaurant operations, such as POS systems.
Which other careers or job roles can I progress to?
– General Manager (Restaurant or Hotel)
– Food and Beverage Manager
– Catering Manager
– Hospitality Consultant