How should I describe my business 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, start by clearly describing the type of restaurant you run. Mention whether it's a high-end dining restaurant, a family-friendly bistro, or a bustling pizzeria. This helps candidates understand the environment they might be working in and sets the right expectations.

Common misunderstanding: A generic description is sufficient to attract candidates.

A generic description might attract many applicants, but it won't necessarily attract the right ones. Being specific about your restaurant type helps filter candidates who are a better fit for your specific setting.

Common misunderstanding: Detailed descriptions of the business environment are not necessary in the job description.

On the contrary, a detailed description of your restaurant’s atmosphere, values, and service style is crucial. It helps potential hires envision themselves in the role and assess if they align with your operational pace and values.

How can I effectively communicate our restaurant's service style in a Duty Manager job description?

Clearly describe your restaurant's service style in the job description to give candidates a clear idea of what to expect. For instance, if you offer full table service with an extensive wine list and fine dining menu, state this explicitly. Alternatively, if your focus is on casual, quick service with local produce, make that clear. This detail helps candidates understand the service dynamics and customer interaction they will be managing.

Common misunderstanding: Service style is obvious from the restaurant type.

Even within the same type of restaurant, service styles can vary significantly. Explicitly stating whether your service is fast-paced and casual or formal and detailed helps in attracting the right managerial talent.

Common misunderstanding: All managerial candidates will adapt to any service style.

While adaptability is a valuable trait, understanding and experience in a specific service style can significantly enhance a manager's effectiveness. Clearly communicating this in the job description helps find candidates who are already proficient or particularly interested in your type of service.

What key aspects make our restaurant an appealing workplace for potential Duty Managers?

Highlight the unique qualities of your restaurant that make it a great place to work. This could include a team-oriented environment, a commitment to sustainability, or opportunities for creativity and growth. Mention specific aspects like flexible scheduling, a supportive atmosphere, or your restaurant's commitment to quality and innovation.

Common misunderstanding: Benefits and perks are all that matter to candidates.

While salary and benefits are important, many candidates are also looking for a workplace where they can thrive and feel valued. Emphasizing the supportive culture and unique operational style of your restaurant can be just as appealing.

Common misunderstanding: Only the role's responsibilities need to be detailed in the job description.

Responsibilities are crucial, but detailing the supportive environment and growth opportunities available can significantly enhance the attractiveness of the position. Candidates often look for roles where they can not only perform but also grow professionally and personally.