Restaurant manager : Training

Training opportunities usually depend on the size of the restaurant and whether it is an independent operation or part of a chain. Larger restaurant chains usually offer structured training schemes, while independent restaurants are more likely to offer on-the-job training on a more informal basis. Key training areas include:

• first aid;
• health and hygiene;
• management skills;
• company systems and procedures.

A typical training programme for an individual outlet combines experience with on-the-job training from skilled staff in the workplace. For most schemes, you gain practical experience within each function of the restaurant. You are usually assigned a mentor or someone who will support you during your initial months within the organisation.

A structured management training scheme for graduates usually lasts between 12 and 18 months. This provides a thorough grounding in the key departments through activities such as shadowing the general manager, analysing budgets and managing personnel matters.

Key professional bodies also offer a range of training opportunities. The Institute of Hospitality , the professional body for managers and potential managers in hospitality, operates a professional development service to bridge the gap between education and the hospitality industry. It also offers professional accreditation through S/QCFs (largely replacing the S/NVQ in the industry) and suitably qualified members may gain associate membership. The Institute also offers seminars and workshops, as well as a course leading to an advanced certificate in hospitality studies.

People 1st  also offers nationally recognised qualifications and provides a searchable database of qualifications through its website. Some may be available through local training providers, while others may be gained while working. The British Hospitality Association  also provides workshops in areas such as industry structures, key trends and sector issues. Several schemes are available through the government-supported Best Practice Forum  for the hospitality, tourism and leisure industries, which enable managers to gain credits towards nationally accredited qualifications.