Are you passionate about the fast-paced world of hospitality and dreaming of a successful career in restaurant management? 

Restaurant managers oversee food and beverage business operations and work with their teams to deliver an exceptional dining experience. Due to the social and dynamic nature of the restaurant industry, no two days in this career are the same!  

In this blog article, we’ll explore the exciting pathways that await those who choose to elevate their career with a restaurant management diploma. From gaining specialized knowledge and practical skills to opening doors to lucrative opportunities, discover how this credential can set you on a trajectory towards professional success in the world of food and beverage management. 

Food and Beverage Industry: An Overview

The food and beverage industry, which falls under the umbrella of hospitality, is responsible for approximately 4% of Canada’s total economic activity. It’s natural that this sector would represent an important contributor to the economy; after all, Canadians say gathering for food and drinks is their favourite way to spend time with friends and family.

Popular establishments within the food and beverage sector include fine-dining restaurants, fast-food restaurants, pubs, cafes, nightclubs, and caterers. These businesses are categorized as “commercial foodservice” and account for 80% of the market share in Canada.

“Non-commercial foodservice” comprises the other 20% of the market. This category refers to establishments that serve food and beverages, but not as a central business venture. Common examples of non-commercial foodservice are seen in hospitals, educational campuses, prisons, and airports.  

Ultimately, the food and beverage industry is vast and varied – professionals pursuing a career in this field will find a range of rewarding employment opportunities – including and beyond traditional full-service restaurants.  

How Is Hospitality Performing After The COVID-19 Pandemic?

COVID-19 was a challenging time for the hospitality industry. In March 2020, governments around the world shut down restaurants, bars, and clubs; various travel restrictions impacted hotels, which were forced to close. By the end of the very same month, 10% of the industry had shut its doors for the last time.

Nevertheless, hospitality is a social industry, and customers soon came flooding back once it was deemed safe to do so. Faced with new opportunities and challenges, restaurant managers across Canada burst into action by implementing new strategies for recovery as they welcomed back customers after a lengthy absence.

As the pandemic becomes a distant memory, the hospitality industry is on track to return to pre-pandemic performance in 2023. In fact, progressive growth beyond these levels is predicted in the coming years. Now, more than ever, it is an exciting time to begin a career in this bustling industry.

What does a restaurant manager do? 

A restaurant manager’s responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks and require a diverse skill set.

As the name implies, a restaurant manager oversees the management of a restaurant; however, the role stretches far beyond telling colleagues what to do or dealing with customer complaints.

Restaurant managers are tasked with recruiting, training, and overseeing employees. They are the key factor in ensuring a motivated and successful workforce. Additionally, managers are in control of coordinating inventory as well as financial management to ensure the business does not go bankrupt!  

Restaurant managers are also responsible for:

• Strategically planning the future of the business
• Exceeding customer needs and expectations
• Marketing and sales
• Market analysis and trend monitoring
• Administrative tasks
• Problem solving

Overall, a restaurant manager plays a crucial role in creating a positive dining experience, managing the restaurant’s resources effectively, adhering to regulations, and achieving financial success.

What’s The Difference Between A Restaurant Manager And A General Manager?

A restaurant manager is typically responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a restaurant, ensuring smooth service, and maintaining efficiency. Their responsibilities may include tasks such as hiring and training staff, coordinating schedules, managing inventory and supplies, handling customer complaints, and maintaining overall quality standards within the restaurant. They are responsible for ensuring that the restaurant operates effectively and meets its financial and operational goals.

On the other hand, a general manager, often found in larger hospitality establishments or multi-unit operations, has a broader scope of responsibility. They oversee the management of an entire facility, and work closely with department heads or managers, including the restaurant manager, to ensure that all areas of the business are operating smoothly and efficiently.

How much does a restaurant manager make?   

Salaries for restaurant managers vary from province to province and depend on a variety of factors, including previous experience. A restaurant manager can expect to earn more than $50,000 per year.  In addition, they enjoy benefits such as staff discount and tips.

Restaurant Management Job Opportunities and Career Paths

Restaurant management is an exciting career path that allows growth and specialization. Careers in the field of restaurant management include:

• Multi-Unit Manager – Overseeing multiple restaurants, most likely through a chain in a jurisdiction such as a large town or city 
• Food and Beverage Director – Organising food and beverage operations at a larger venue such as a resort or a hotel 
• Restaurant Consultant – Discussing potential ideas with smaller restaurants in need of inspiration or support 
• Entrepreneurship – Founding, managing and owning your own restaurant 
• Corporate Food Service – Arranging the food and beverage for institutions such as schools and nursing homes 
• Event Management – Managing large events such as birthday parties and weddings 
• Restaurant Inspector or Quality Assurance – Ensuring food standards are maintained along with compliance with regulations 
• Banquet Manager – Coordinating and managing banquets, events or functions to meet client needs and expectations 
• Food and Nutrition Manager – Overseeing the food service operations in various settings such as schools, healthcare facilities and corporate cafeterias to provide healthy and nutritious food for a large number of individuals

Due to the nature of transferrable skills within hospitality, globalization of cuisine, and a resurgent tourism industry, the fundamental principles of restaurant management remain applicable across the globe. Restaurant managers who are open-minded, adaptable, and willing to learn can thrive in various locations around the world!

Restaurant Manager Skills And Knowledge  

Do you have the skills and knowledge needed to become a restaurant manager? You need to enjoy interacting with people, ensuring customers are made to feel at home in your restaurant. From time to time, you may need to go above and beyond to ensure a customer’s needs are met, such as accommodating for dietary requirements and/or restrictions.

A restaurant manager must possess essential skills and knowledge to perform their duties to the best of their ability, including:

• Leadership and Management 
• Customer Service  
• Food and Beverage Knowledge 
• Financial Management 
• Operations Management 
• Marketing and Sales 
• Human Resources 
• Hospitality Computer Systems 
• Industry Trends and Compliance 
• Time Management and Organization 
• Adaptability and Problem-solving 

Along with the need to manage and organize a business effectively, restaurant managers need a crucial understanding of food and beverages stretching far beyond the confines of their menu. Moreover, they must have effective communication skills to provide excellent customer service, an important part of any hospitality experience.

The Benefits Of A Diploma In Hospitality 

The best way to develop the skillset and knowledge you need for a career in restaurant management is to enrol in a career college diploma program. Most diplomas can be completed in less than a year and focus on teaching specialized career skills that employers are looking for.

Here are just a few of the ways that completing a diploma at a career college, can advance your career:   

• In-demand skills and knowledge: Career college curriculums focus on the relevant, valuable skills you will need for a successful career. You will gain crucial knowledge such as hospitality training from a management perspective along with preparation for managing a team.  
• Industry experts:  Some colleges ensure each of their instructors have industry experience to back the foundational knowledge. At Sundance College, we ensure our instructors have a minimum of 3 years industry experience; however, many possess more than this, as well as multi-disciplinary knowledge. This combination creates a learning environment enhancing the maximum student success.  
• Job search support: As a Sundance College student, you will have access to Career Services for assistance with resume writing, interview preparation, and job search techniques.  
• On-the-job experience: A practicum placement presents you with the opportunity to apply the knowledge you learned in class and gain real-world experience before entering the job market. This is an invaluable asset for your resume, and one not offered with all diploma programs. At Sundance College, we ensure all our students have a leading edge when entering the work-force, and providing our students with hands-on practicum experience is a key part of this.  

Earning a diploma will demonstrate your credibility and professionalism to employers. A diploma helps you stand out from the crowd while you transition into the hospitality management field or advance in your current restaurant career.

Launch Your Restaurant Management Career with Sundance College

There are always opportunities for individuals interested in pursuing this career path, especially as the industry takes on new opportunities in the face of changing customer behaviour.

Read more: Are There Still Entry-Level Jobs in the Hospitality Industry?

A fantastic pathway into restaurant management is through Sundance College’s Hospitality Business Management Diploma, which equips students with the skills and knowledge they need for success. Additionally, our Career Services team assists students with all aspects of their job search preparation, contributing to a smooth transition into their hospitality management career.  

Our program prepares students to excel in hospitality business management positions all around the world. Taught by instructors with extensive experience in the field, 100% of our hospitality graduates have found a job in the industry within six months of completing their program. It will also prepare you to obtain hospitality industry certifications that are recognized by employers throughout the world, such as: 

• Food Safety Manager Certification 
• Certified Food Manager  
• ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification 
• Certified Professional – Food Safety  
• Certified Manager Certification  
• Certified Sales Professional  
• Certified Food Protection Professional  

For more information on our Hospitality Business Management Diploma, go online to speak with an advisor about qualifications, the program, and enrollment.