What personality traits should I add to a Restaurant Assistant 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 Assistant 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 thriving restaurant serving 200+ covers daily with emphasis on operational excellence, team development, and exceptional guest experiences. Our assistant manager works closely with the general manager to lead restaurant operations, supporting strategic initiatives while managing daily service delivery. This senior role combines strategic thinking with hands-on management, overseeing multiple departments while developing systems and processes that drive business success. You'll work in a dynamic environment managing complex operations including staff development, financial performance, and guest relations. The position offers excellent career advancement opportunities including general manager, multi-site management, and regional leadership roles within our expanding restaurant group, with involvement in business development and strategic planning.
• Support general manager in strategic planning, operational improvements, and business development initiatives • Lead comprehensive staff management including recruitment, training, performance evaluation, and development planning • Oversee daily operations across all departments ensuring service quality, efficiency, and guest satisfaction • Manage financial performance including revenue optimization, cost control, and budget management • Develop and implement operational procedures, service standards, and quality control systems • Handle complex guest relations including complaint resolution, VIP management, and reputation management • Coordinate with suppliers, contractors, and service providers to maintain operational excellence • Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements including health and safety, licensing, and employment law • Lead staff meetings, training sessions, and performance management programs • Manage inventory control, purchasing decisions, and supply chain coordination • Support marketing initiatives, promotional activities, and guest loyalty programs • Handle administrative responsibilities including reporting, documentation, and system management
Essential Skills: Extensive restaurant management experience with demonstrated ability to lead large teams and complex operations; strong business acumen including P&L management, financial analysis, and strategic thinking; exceptional leadership capabilities with experience in staff development and performance management; comprehensive understanding of restaurant operations, service standards, and quality control; excellent communication skills for stakeholder management and team leadership; advanced problem-solving abilities for operational challenges and business optimization. Preferred Qualifications: 5+ years progressive restaurant management experience with multi-departmental responsibility; business or hospitality management degree; experience with restaurant technology, POS systems, and operational software; advanced financial skills including budgeting, forecasting, and cost analysis; wine and beverage program management experience; multi-unit or regional management experience; marketing and customer relationship management knowledge.
We're looking for accomplished restaurant management professionals with minimum 5 years progressive management experience, demonstrating ability to lead complex operations and drive business results. You should have comprehensive understanding of restaurant business including financial management, operations, and strategic planning. Candidates must possess proven track record in team leadership, operational improvement, and business growth, gained through hands-on management roles with increasing responsibility. The successful candidate will have demonstrated ability to manage large teams, implement systems improvements, and achieve ambitious performance targets. This senior role offers significant influence over business direction, involvement in strategic planning, and potential advancement to general manager or regional management positions within our growing restaurant portfolio.
We're looking for someone who combines strategic thinking with operational excellence, leading through vision while ensuring exceptional execution across all business areas. You should possess natural ability to develop systems and processes, with skill in building high-performing teams and sustainable operational improvements. The ideal candidate will have analytical mindset for business optimization, creative approach to problem-solving, and commitment to continuous improvement. You should be results-focused yet people-centered, able to balance business objectives with team development and guest satisfaction. We value innovative thinking, collaborative leadership, and entrepreneurial spirit, seeking someone who contributes to business growth while maintaining operational excellence and building strong team culture.
Competitive management salary of £35,000-£42,000 annually plus substantial performance bonus structure based on operational KPIs, guest satisfaction, and financial performance (potential additional £5,000-£8,000 annually). Comprehensive senior management benefits package includes: 30 days paid annual leave plus bank holidays and professional development time; health and dental insurance including family coverage options; management car allowance or transport benefits. Executive development opportunities including senior leadership training, industry conferences, and strategic planning involvement. Potential equity participation in business growth, advancement to general manager roles, and involvement in new venture development within our expanding hospitality group.

When writing a job description for a Restaurant Assistant Manager, it's important to include personality traits that align with your restaurant's culture and operational style. Consider traits like proactive engagement, innovative thinking, and effective communication. These traits help ensure the candidate fits well with your team and can handle the responsibilities of the role.

Common misunderstanding: Any positive traits are good to list in a job description.

Not all positive traits are suitable for every role. It's important to choose traits that specifically match the needs and culture of your restaurant. For example, a high-energy, fast-paced restaurant might need someone who thrives under pressure, whereas a family-style restaurant might look for someone with a nurturing and patient personality.

Common misunderstanding: Listing many traits will attract more candidates.

Listing too many traits can be overwhelming and may deter qualified candidates who feel they might not meet all the listed criteria. It's better to focus on a few key traits that are crucial for the role.

How can I describe traits without using clichés like "team player"?

Instead of using clichés, describe traits through specific actions or behaviors that illustrate how those traits manifest in the workplace. For example, instead of saying "team player," you might say, "collaborates effectively with both kitchen and front-of-house staff to ensure smooth service." This gives a clearer picture of what you expect and how these traits contribute to your restaurant's success.

Common misunderstanding: Clichés are easy for everyone to understand, so they're okay to use.

While clichés are commonly understood, they don't provide clear expectations. Specific descriptions help candidates better understand the role and self-assess their fit for your team.

Common misunderstanding: Detailed trait descriptions make the job description too long and complex.

Effective descriptions can be concise and clear. Focus on how these traits apply in day-to-day operations rather than providing a lengthy explanation. This keeps your job description to the point while still being informative.

What specific qualities are needed to match my restaurant's pace and service style?

The qualities you look for should directly reflect your restaurant’s pace and service style. For a fast-paced environment, qualities like quick decision-making, resilience, and efficient problem-solving are important. For a fine dining setting, look for attention to detail, a calm demeanor, and a passion for providing an exceptional guest experience. Tailor these qualities to fit the unique challenges and expectations of your restaurant.

Common misunderstanding: All restaurants need the same type of assistant manager.

Each restaurant has its unique atmosphere and operational style, which means the qualities needed in an assistant manager can vary greatly. Understanding your specific needs helps in finding the right candidate.

Common misunderstanding: High qualifications and experience are enough, without focusing on specific personal qualities.

While experience and qualifications are important, the personal qualities of an assistant manager can greatly influence how well they can adapt to and thrive in your specific restaurant environment. These qualities often determine their effectiveness in the role and their ability to maintain your restaurant’s service standards.