How to become a restaurant manager
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- working towards this role
- a graduate training scheme
College
You could do a college course, which would teach you some of the skills you'll need in this job. Courses include:
- Level 3 Diploma in Hospitality Supervision and Leadership
- Level 4 Diploma in Hospitality Leadership
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, for a level 3 course
- 1 or 2 A levels, a level 3 diploma or relevant experience for a level 4 or level 5 course
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Apprenticeship
You could work towards this role by doing a hospitality supervisor advanced apprenticeship and continue with further training on the job.
You could also take a hospitality manager higher apprenticeship, if you've got supervisory experience in restaurant work.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English and maths, for an advanced apprenticeship
- 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a higher or degree apprenticeship
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Work
You could move up to a management position after working as part of the restaurant staff, for example head waiter or kitchen manager.
With experience and qualifications you could take on more management responsibilities.
Other Routes
You could apply for a place on a graduate training scheme. Many large restaurants and fast food chains run schemes that can lead to management jobs.
You'll usually need a university qualification to get a place. For example, a degree in hospitality management is useful but many employers will accept other subjects.
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Further information
You can find out more about how to become a restaurant manager from Caterer.com.