What level of experience should I include in a Restaurant Duty Manager job description?

Date modified: 22nd September 2025 | This FAQ page has been written by Pilla Founder, Liam Jones, click to email Liam directly, he reads every email.

Restaurant Duty Manager Job Description Template

This job description template provides a full working exmaple using our six step approach. Open the template in the Pilla app and customise each section to make it specific to your role and business.

We operate a successful restaurant serving 180+ covers daily with emphasis on operational excellence, team leadership, and exceptional guest experiences. Our duty manager oversees daily operations during designated shifts, ensuring smooth service delivery and staff coordination. This role combines operational management with hands-on support, leading teams while maintaining service standards and handling escalated situations. You'll work in a fast-paced environment managing both front-of-house and back-of-house coordination during busy service periods. The position offers excellent progression opportunities including general manager and multi-site management roles, with involvement in staff development, operational improvements, and business growth within our restaurant group.
• Oversee daily restaurant operations during assigned shifts including service coordination and quality control • Manage and motivate front-of-house and back-of-house teams ensuring efficient collaboration and communication • Handle escalated guest complaints and service issues with professionalism and effective resolution strategies • Monitor service standards and food quality, implementing corrective actions when necessary • Manage staff scheduling, break coverage, and shift assignments to optimize operational efficiency • Oversee opening and closing procedures including cash handling, security protocols, and facility checks • Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, food safety protocols, and licensing requirements • Coordinate with kitchen management on service flow, special requirements, and timing optimization • Handle administrative duties including sales reporting, inventory management, and incident documentation • Implement company policies and procedures while maintaining positive team morale and performance • Manage cash handling procedures, till reconciliation, and financial accountability during shifts • Support staff training, performance management, and development initiatives
Essential Skills: Proven management experience with ability to lead diverse teams under pressure; comprehensive understanding of restaurant operations including service, kitchen, and administrative functions; strong problem-solving abilities for handling operational challenges and guest complaints; excellent communication skills for staff management and guest relations; financial awareness including cash handling, cost control, and basic P&L understanding; knowledge of health and safety, food safety, and employment regulations. Preferred Qualifications: 3+ years restaurant management or supervisory experience; hospitality management qualification or equivalent professional training; experience with POS systems, scheduling software, and operational technology; wine and beverage knowledge for comprehensive service oversight; additional language skills for diverse teams and guest demographics; conflict resolution and performance management training.
We're looking for experienced restaurant professionals with at least 3 years in management or senior supervisory roles, demonstrating ability to lead teams and manage operations effectively. You should have solid understanding of restaurant operations, natural leadership skills, and proven track record in hospitality management. While formal management qualifications are valuable, we care more about your practical experience, problem-solving ability, and commitment to operational excellence. We provide ongoing management development including advanced leadership training and operational skills enhancement. Career advancement opportunities include general manager, area manager, and regional management positions within our expanding restaurant group. We support professional growth through management training programs, mentoring relationships, and cross-functional experience opportunities.
We're looking for someone who combines strong operational knowledge with inspirational leadership qualities, motivating teams while maintaining exacting standards for service quality and operational efficiency. You should be decisive under pressure, able to prioritize multiple demands, and skilled at developing team capabilities. The ideal candidate will have excellent interpersonal skills, emotional intelligence for staff management, and commitment to creating positive workplace culture. You should be organized, analytical, and able to balance business objectives with team development and guest satisfaction. We value collaborative leadership, continuous improvement mindset, and results-oriented approach, seeking someone who drives operational success while fostering team growth and maintaining our service standards.
Competitive management salary of £28,000-£34,000 annually based on experience and operational capabilities, with quarterly performance reviews and merit-based advancement opportunities. Comprehensive management benefits package includes: performance bonus structure tied to operational KPIs and guest satisfaction metrics; nutritious staff meals during all shifts; 28 days paid annual leave plus bank holidays and professional development time. Leadership development opportunities including management training programs, operational certifications, and potential advancement to senior management roles. Health and wellness benefits, flexible working arrangements where possible, and management recognition programs celebrating operational excellence and team development achievements.

When writing a job description for a Restaurant Duty Manager, it's important to specify the level of experience required. This helps to attract candidates who are well-suited for the role. You should decide if the position is suitable for someone at an entry-level, mid-level, or senior-level based on the responsibilities and expectations of the role.

Common misunderstanding: Any management experience is suitable for a Duty Manager role.

Not all management experiences are equal. Specific experience related to restaurant management, such as handling busy service hours or managing a team in a similar environment, is crucial. It's important to specify the type of experience that aligns with the daily operations of your restaurant.

Common misunderstanding: The number of years of experience is more important than the quality of experience.

While the number of years can indicate a level of familiarity with certain tasks, the relevance of the experience to restaurant management is more important. Focus on what the candidate has accomplished during their time in previous roles rather than just the duration.

How should I describe the type of experience needed rather than years in a Duty Manager job description?

Instead of focusing solely on the number of years, describe the type of experience that is necessary for the Duty Manager role. This includes specific tasks or environments they have worked in, such as managing a high-volume restaurant or leading a team during peak dining hours. This approach helps potential candidates assess if their background aligns with what the role demands.

Common misunderstanding: General management experience is enough.

General management skills are important, but for a restaurant setting, it's crucial to have experience that is directly applicable to the hospitality industry. Make sure to highlight the need for industry-specific skills like guest service management or kitchen coordination.

Common misunderstanding: Experience descriptions should be vague to attract more candidates.

While a broader description might attract more applicants, it's more effective to be specific to ensure that those applying are better suited for the role. Detailed descriptions help in attracting candidates who are more likely to meet the expectations of the job and reduce the time spent filtering unsuitable applicants.

Is it necessary to include training opportunities in a Duty Manager job description?

Yes, mentioning training opportunities in the job description is very beneficial. It not only attracts candidates who are eager to grow and learn but also shows that your restaurant values development and progression. This can be a deciding factor for many applicants who are looking to advance their careers in the hospitality industry.

Common misunderstanding: Training opportunities might deter experienced candidates.

On the contrary, many experienced candidates look for opportunities where they can further develop their skills and take on new challenges. Highlighting training opportunities can actually attract highly qualified professionals who are committed to their personal and professional growth.

Common misunderstanding: Only entry-level positions require training.

Training is important at all levels of a career. For Duty Managers, ongoing training can include leadership development, advanced customer service techniques, or financial management skills. Including these opportunities can attract candidates who are proactive about their skill enhancement and staying updated with industry standards.