At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to deliver exceptional dining experiences and drive restaurant standards.
- Company: Ambitious independent hospitality group with a strong culture and growth plans.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, achievable bonuses, and clear progression opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of an entrepreneurial journey with a high-quality product and loyal following.
- Why this job: Join a fast-paced environment where your leadership and ideas truly matter.
- Qualifications: Experience in premium casual dining and strong people leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 50000 £ per year.
Independent casual fine dining concept with a competitive salary of £45,000-£50,000 (OTE circa £55,000).
Founder-led business with real ambition and strong team culture.
Opportunity to make a genuine impact in a growing independent concept with expansion plans.
High-quality product with an established reputation and achievable bonus structure.
Clear progression opportunities as the business grows.
We're partnering with an ambitious independent founder-led hospitality group that has built a high-volume casual fine dining concept with serious momentum, exceptional food, strong culture, packed services, and a loyal following. Now entering an exciting growth phase, they are looking for a Restaurant Manager / Assistant General Manager who can help drive standards, lead from the floor, and play a key role in the next chapter of expansion.
If you thrive in fast-paced premium hospitality environments and want to be part of something entrepreneurial, this is the opportunity to step into a business where your voice, energy, and leadership genuinely matter.
The Role
- Work closely with the Founder and senior leadership team to oversee the day-to-day operation of a busy, high-performing restaurant.
- This is a hands-on leadership role requiring strong floor presence, commercial awareness, and the ability to motivate and develop a team in a high-volume environment.
- Responsible for leading and inspiring the front-of-house team.
- Delivering exceptional guest experiences consistently.
- Driving standards, service, and team performance.
- Managing labour, rotas, and operational efficiency.
- Supporting recruitment, onboarding, and development.
- Working collaboratively with kitchen and senior leadership.
- Helping shape the future growth of the business.
About You
- Experience as a Restaurant Manager or AGM within premium casual dining or high-volume hospitality.
- A genuine passion for food, service, and hospitality culture.
- Strong people leadership and team development skills.
- Energy, resilience, and confidence in busy service-led environments.
- Commercial awareness and operational discipline.
- A hands-on management style with high standards.
- The ambition to grow with an expanding independent brand.
Restaurant Manager in Southampton employer: Appetite 4 Recruitment
Join a dynamic and ambitious independent hospitality group that values your leadership and creativity as a Restaurant Manager. With a strong team culture, competitive salary, and clear progression opportunities, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the future of a high-quality dining concept. This is not just a job; it's a chance to make a genuine impact in a thriving environment where your contributions are recognised and rewarded.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Restaurant Manager in Southampton
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the hospitality industry. Attend events, join local groups, or even just chat with folks at your favourite restaurants. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Restaurant Manager role!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your personality! When you get an interview, let your passion for food and service shine through. Share stories about your experiences and how you've made an impact in previous roles. Remember, they want someone who can lead from the floor and inspire the team!
✨Tip Number 3
Research the company! Before any interviews, dive deep into the restaurant's culture, menu, and values. This will not only help you tailor your answers but also show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their ambitious growth journey.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of exciting opportunities waiting for you. By applying directly, you’ll stand out and show that you’re serious about joining a growing independent brand. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
We think you need these skills to ace Restaurant Manager in Southampton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let your love for food and hospitality shine through in your application. We want to see that you genuinely care about creating exceptional guest experiences and have a strong connection to the industry.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills:Make sure to showcase your experience in leading teams and driving performance. We’re looking for someone who can inspire others, so share examples of how you've motivated your team in previous roles.
Be Specific About Your Experience:When detailing your past roles, focus on specific achievements and responsibilities that align with what we’re looking for. Use numbers and examples to illustrate your impact in high-volume environments.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to grow with our independent brand.
How to prepare for a job interview at Appetite 4 Recruitment
✨Know the Concept Inside Out
Before your interview, make sure you understand the restaurant's concept and values. Research their menu, service style, and any recent news about their expansion plans. This will show your genuine interest and help you align your answers with their vision.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be prepared to discuss your leadership approach and how you've motivated teams in the past. Share specific examples of how you've driven standards and improved service in previous roles. This is crucial for a hands-on position like a Restaurant Manager.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Awareness
Understand the financial aspects of running a restaurant, such as managing labour costs and operational efficiency. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully balanced quality service with profitability in your previous roles.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about their growth plans, team culture, and how they measure success. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the restaurant aligns with your career goals.