General Manager
General managers are accountable for the restaurant as a whole. They develop leaders, establish operating priorities, oversee staffing and performance, partner with ownership or company leadership, and create conditions for strong guest and employee experiences.
- Category
- Leadership & Management
- Experience
- Substantial restaurant leadership experience commonly expected
- Key Skills
- Operational Leadership • Team Development • Business Acumen
What You'll Do
- Set restaurant goals and operating priorities.
- Hire, develop, and retain restaurant leaders and team members.
- Oversee staffing plans, schedules, and training systems.
- Review restaurant performance and address trends.
- Maintain consistent guest-service and operating standards.
- Plan inventory, maintenance, and resource needs.
- Partner with ownership or company support teams.
- Build an accountable and respectful team culture.
Skills Employers Look For
- Operational Leadership
- Team Development
- Business Acumen
- Staffing
- Performance Management
- Guest Service
- Strategic Planning
- Communication
What the Job Is Like
General managers lead from throughout the restaurant while also completing planning, hiring, and performance work. Their schedule follows the needs of the operation and can include visibility during high-volume periods and coordination outside a single shift.
Do You Need Experience?
Employers commonly seek several stages of restaurant leadership experience and a record of developing teams and managing operations. Requirements vary by restaurant size and concept, so candidates should connect their specific results to each opening.
Good Fit If...
This role may be a good fit if you:
- Enjoy developing leaders and strengthening culture.
- Can set direction and follow through on details.
- Use operational information to make decisions.
- Communicate effectively with many stakeholders.
- Take ownership while inviting team input.
Common General Manager Interview Questions
- How do you set priorities for an entire restaurant?
- How have you developed other restaurant leaders?
- Tell me about a performance trend you identified and addressed.
- How do you create accountability while supporting your team?
Applying for General Manager jobs?
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Career Growth
Possible career paths include:
- Restaurant or Kitchen Manager
- General Manager
- Multi-unit Leader
- Operations Leadership
Restaurant careers can develop in many directions; this is one possible example, not a required path.
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