Front of House Manager Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the bustling world of hospitality, the focus on Front of House Managers is sharper than ever.

As the world of hospitality evolves, the demand for skilled and dynamic individuals to manage our front of house operations continues to grow.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a Front of House Manager?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the nuances of hospitality management,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Front of House Manager job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Front of House Manager Duties and Responsibilities

Front of House Managers are critical to the smooth operation of restaurants, theaters, and other establishments that deliver hospitality services.

They coordinate all front of house operations and ensure guests receive a high standard of service.

Here are the main duties and responsibilities of a Front of House Manager:

• Manage the reception team, wait staff, and other front of house employees
• Ensure all front of house areas meet health and safety regulations
• Oversee guest reservations, greeting, seating, and overall dining experience
• Resolve customer complaints in a professional and efficient manner
• Provide training and support to front of house staff to maintain excellent customer service
• Coordinate with the back of house manager to ensure efficient service and communication
• Manage inventory of supplies and order as needed
• Monitor daily bookings and ensure timely seating and service
• Arrange maintenance of front of house equipment and facilities
• Implement promotional activities to improve customer numbers and satisfaction
• Prepare reports on customer satisfaction and feedback for upper management

 

Front of House Manager Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for an experienced Front of House Manager to oversee all restaurant operations, including welcoming and hosting guests.

The Front of House Manager will be responsible for supervising staff and ensuring high levels of customer service.

Our ideal candidate is familiar with restaurant operations and has a good understanding of what makes great customer service.

You should also be a team player and be able to effectively communicate with our Kitchen Staff to ensure a seamless dining experience.

Ultimately, the role of the Front of House Manager is to ensure our restaurant runs smoothly and customers have pleasant dining experiences.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee all front and back of the house restaurant operations
• Ensure customer satisfaction through promoting excellent service
• Respond to customer complaints tactfully and professionally
• Maintain quality control for all food served
• Analyze staff performance and provide feedback
• Ensure adherence to health and safety regulations
• Arrange for new employees’ proper onboarding and training
• Prepare reports regarding sales volumes, merchandising and personnel matters
• Coordinate with kitchen staff to ensure timely service and quality of the food
• Create effective schedules and quickly resolve conflicts to ensure that restaurant operations run smoothly

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Front of House Manager or Restaurant Manager
• Proven customer service experience as a manager
• Strong leadership, motivational and people skills
• Acute financial management skills
• Culinary school diploma or degree in food service management or related field may be required
• Knowledge of diverse business subjects such as sales, marketing etc.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Front of House Manager
• Work Environment: This job operates in a restaurant setting. The role routinely involves long hours, and weekend work may be required.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Restaurant General Manager.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Front of House Manager Do?

A Front of House Manager is typically employed in the hospitality sector, working in environments such as restaurants, hotels, theaters, or concert venues.

Their primary role involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of the front of the house, ensuring that customers receive high-quality service.

This includes managing the reception staff, waiters, and bartenders, as well as coordinating reservations and managing customer complaints.

Front of House Managers are also responsible for hiring, training, and scheduling employees.

They often take on a customer service role, greeting guests upon arrival, handling special requests, and ensuring that customer satisfaction is met or exceeded.

They may also manage the financial aspects, such as managing budgets, controlling operational costs, and ensuring the profitability of the venue.

In addition, they often liaise with the Back of House Manager to ensure a smooth operation, create a positive work environment, and uphold the business’s reputation.

This role requires excellent interpersonal and organizational skills, a customer-focused attitude, and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.

 

Front of House Manager Qualifications and Skills

A competent Front of House Manager should possess a range of skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Excellent communication skills to liaise effectively with customers, staff, and suppliers.
• Strong interpersonal skills to build relationships and handle customer complaints in a professional manner.
• Outstanding organization skills to manage reservations, coordinate staff schedules, and ensure smooth restaurant operations.
• Ability to lead and motivate a team to deliver high-quality customer service.
• Attention to detail to maintain cleanliness and hygiene standards in line with legislation.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly and efficiently resolve any issues that may affect the customers’ dining experience.
• Knowledge of food and beverage service techniques, culinary terms, and health and safety regulations.
• Ability to multitask and work under pressure during busy periods while maintaining a friendly and professional demeanor.
• Financial acumen to monitor and control costs, oversee cash handling, and effectively utilize resources.

 

Front of House Manager Experience Requirements

Front of House Managers typically have several years of experience in the hospitality or entertainment sector, often starting out in entry-level roles such as a Host, Waitstaff, or Usher.

This experience provides an understanding of the unique challenges and demands of managing a venue’s public space.

Candidates usually need at least 2 to 3 years of experience in these roles, gaining hands-on experience in customer service, conflict resolution, and operation coordination.

Individuals with more than 3 to 5 years of experience often advance into a supervisory or assistant management role within the front of house team, where they are responsible for staff training, scheduling, and overseeing the efficient functioning of the front of house operations.

Those with more than 5 years of experience or more, often have an in-depth understanding of the business, have honed their problem-solving and leadership skills, and are ready for the Front of House Manager position.

In some cases, especially in larger or high-end establishments, employers may require a degree in hospitality management or a related field, and certification in food and beverage service or health and safety may be advantageous.

 

Front of House Manager Education and Training Requirements

Front of House Managers generally require a high school diploma or equivalent as a minimum education requirement.

However, many employers prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in hospitality, restaurant management, or a related field.

In-depth knowledge of the hospitality industry, customer service, and food and beverage operations is essential for this role.

Therefore, most Front of House Managers have extensive experience in restaurant or hotel operations, often starting in entry-level positions and working their way up.

Several institutions offer certification programs for restaurant and food service management, which can be beneficial for those seeking to advance in this field.

These programs typically cover topics like food safety, customer service, and business operations.

Additionally, Front of House Managers must have excellent communication and leadership skills.

They should also be comfortable using restaurant management software and point of sale systems.

Some employers may also require Front of House Managers to have a food handler’s permit or alcohol service certification, depending on the establishment’s offerings.

Professional development courses or seminars in team leadership, conflict resolution, or customer service can also be beneficial for those in or seeking this role.

Above all, experience in the industry is highly valued, with many employers seeking candidates with several years of experience in a restaurant setting.

 

Front of House Manager Salary Expectations

A Front of House Manager can expect to earn an average salary of $48,590 (USD) per year.

The actual compensation can differ based on factors such as industry, years of experience, level of education, and the specific location of employment.

 

Front of House Manager Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Front of House Manager need?

Front of House Managers need to be excellent communicators, both with staff and customers.

They also need strong problem-solving skills to address any customer complaints, staff issues, or operational problems.

Excellent organisational skills are also needed to manage the scheduling and deployment of staff.

Knowledge of health and safety regulations and basic accounting are also desirable.

 

Do Front of House Managers need a degree?

While it’s not a requirement, some Front of House Managers may have a degree in Hospitality Management or a related field.

However, relevant experience in a hospitality setting, particularly in supervisory or managerial roles, is often more important.

Some may also have vocational qualifications such as food hygiene certificates.

 

What should you look for in a Front of House Manager resume?

Look for a combination of experience in the hospitality industry and demonstrated leadership skills.

Any experience in staff scheduling, customer service, and conflict resolution is beneficial.

Also look for any certifications or qualifications related to the industry, such as food safety or hospitality management.

 

What qualities make a good Front of House Manager?

A good Front of House Manager is a strong leader who can inspire and motivate their team.

They need to be customer-focused, ensuring that all guests receive excellent service.

They also need to be good problem-solvers, able to quickly and effectively resolve any issues that arise.

They should have a deep understanding of the hospitality industry and the ability to work under pressure.

 

Is it difficult to hire Front of House Managers?

Hiring a Front of House Manager can be challenging as it’s crucial to find someone with the right combination of leadership skills, industry knowledge, and customer service skills.

You must also find someone who fits well with the culture of your organization and can lead a diverse team.

It can be helpful to use a recruitment agency that specializes in the hospitality sector.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve showcased the true essence of being a Front of House Manager.

Surprised?

It’s not just about greeting guests.

It’s about orchestrating the perfect dining experience, one customer interaction at a time.

With our comprehensive Front of House Manager job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Dive deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for crafting precise listings or enhancing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every guest interaction contributes to the overall experience.

Let’s create those memorable dining moments. Together.

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