How to become a restaurant manager

How to become a Restaurant Manager

Becoming a restaurant manager involves a mix of hands-on experience, education, and the development of key leadership skills. Here’s a general guide to pursuing a career in restaurant management:

• Gain Experience in the Restaurant Industry: Most restaurant managers begin by working in entry-level positions such as server, bartender, host, or cook. These roles provide valuable insight into day-to-day restaurant operations and help build essential skills in customer service, teamwork, and problem-solving. Working across different areas of the restaurant allows future managers to understand how each department functions and how to support them effectively.
• Pursue Relevant Education or Training: While not always required, earning a degree or certificate in hospitality management, culinary management, or a related field can enhance your qualifications and job prospects. Many colleges, universities, and vocational schools offer targeted programs that cover topics like food service operations, cost control, and customer relations. Certifications in food safety, alcohol service, and business management are also beneficial and can demonstrate your commitment and professionalism.
• Build Leadership and Management Skills: Successful restaurant managers need strong leadership, communication, and organizational abilities. You can develop these skills by taking on leadership roles in your current workplace—such as shift supervisor or team lead—or by participating in management training programs and workshops. Seeking mentorship and constructive feedback from experienced managers can also help you grow into a confident and effective leader.
• Gain Supervisory Experience: Having prior experience in a supervisory role is often a key step toward becoming a restaurant manager. Positions like assistant manager, floor supervisor, or shift leader help you gain practical experience in managing staff, resolving conflicts, and making operational decisions. This hands-on leadership experience is critical for transitioning into a full management role.
• Grow Your Professional Network: Networking is an important part of career development in the restaurant industry. Attend industry events, join professional organizations such as the National Restaurant Association (NRA), and connect with peers and leaders through platforms like LinkedIn. Building strong relationships with other professionals can lead to job opportunities, mentorship, and valuable industry insights.

Certifications
There are several certifications available to restaurant managers that can enhance their skills, demonstrate expertise, and support career advancement. Some of the most recognized certifications in the industry include:

• ServSafe Manager Certification: Offered by the National Restaurant Association, this widely accepted certification focuses on food safety and sanitation practices. In many states, restaurant managers are required to hold a ServSafe Manager Certification to meet health department regulations.
• Foodservice Management Professional (FMP): Provided by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), the FMP credential is designed for experienced managers who want to validate their expertise in areas such as operations, finance, human resources, and marketing within the foodservice industry.
• Certified Foodservice Professional (CFSP): Administered by the North American Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers (NAFEM), this certification is geared toward professionals who work in or with the foodservice equipment and supplies industry. It is less common for restaurant managers but may be relevant for those involved in equipment procurement or operations.
• Certified Hospitality Supervisor (CHS): Offered by the American Hotel and Lodging Educational Institute (AHLEI), the CHS certification is designed for individuals in supervisory roles within the broader hospitality sector, including restaurants, and focuses on leadership, communication, and team management.
• Certified Restaurant Facility Professional (CRFP): Provided by the Restaurant Facility Management Association (RFMA), this certification is ideal for those responsible for managing and maintaining restaurant facilities, including infrastructure, safety, and equipment systems.