Front of House Manager

Restaurants are typically divided into two major management areas: back of house (including kitchen, storage, and dishwashing areas) and front of house (the dining room, lobby, and any lounge or bar areas.) The person who oversees the latter area at a dining establishment is the front of house manager.

Front of house managers oversee the interview and hiring processes for positions such as servers, hosts, bussers, and bartenders. They also oversee, direct, and actively participate in the training of personnel in these positions. Additionally, front of house managers supervise the cleanliness and upkeep of the dining room and guest contact areas, including restrooms and any closet or coat check areas. Finally, the front of house manager supervises individual shifts, helping ensure that dining guests are served in a manner that meets the standards set by the restaurant.

In addition to these supervisory roles, a front of house manager typically assists with budget forecasting as it applies to labor cost and operating supplies. Some front of house managers in locations with bars or lounges may also be tasked with inventory and cost control regarding liquor costs as well. Front of house managers must always look for opportunities to minimize waste and maximize sales.

The educational background required for front of house manager positions varies. Some employers prefer applicants with a postsecondary degree in hospitality or customer service, although practical experience may be given equal or greater weight in many institutions. Previous experience in a restaurant environment is generally required, and prior managerial experience may be required or preferred.

As a Front of House Manager with 0-3 years of experience in Australia, your main responsibilities include:

• Manage daily operations of the front desk, ensuring smooth check-in and check-out processes and addressing guest inquiries. Oversee the front desk staff, assign duties, and provide training as needed.
• Maintain a welcoming and organized reception area, ensuring cleanliness and proper signage. Supervise the cleanliness and appearance of the lobby, ensuring a positive first impression for guests.
• Coordinate room reservations and bookings, ensuring accurate and timely information is communicated to guests. Monitor room availability, handle reservations, and update the booking system as needed.
• Assist in resolving guest complaints or issues, providing excellent customer service and ensuring guest satisfaction.

For a Front of House Manager job role, the following qualifications are required:

• Excellent customer service skills to ensure a positive and memorable experience for guests, addressing their needs and resolving any issues in a professional manner.
• Strong organizational abilities to manage and coordinate the front of house operations, including seating arrangements, reservations, and ensuring efficient flow of guests.
• Leadership qualities to oversee and guide the front of house staff, providing training, feedback, and fostering a cohesive team environment.
• Effective communication skills to liaise with the kitchen staff, management, and vendors, ensuring smooth operations and timely resolution of any customer or operational concerns.

The Front of House Manager plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations and customer satisfaction. For individuals with 0-3 years of experience in Australia, here are four alternative roles to explore:

• Guest Services Coordinator: Responsible for managing guest inquiries, bookings, and ensuring a seamless customer experience.
• Event Coordinator: In charge of planning and executing events, coordinating with vendors, and ensuring successful event operations.
• Restaurant Supervisor: Oversees the daily operations of a restaurant, including managing staff, ensuring quality service, and maintaining customer satisfaction.
• Sales and Marketing Coordinator: Focuses on promoting the business, attracting customers, and implementing marketing strategies to drive sales.

According to Google, the role of Front of House Manager in Australia is projected to experience steady growth in the job market. Over the past 10 years, there has been an increasing demand for professionals in this role, indicating its importance in the industry. With the booming hospitality sector and the need for effective customer service, it is expected that there will be numerous employment opportunities available in the future for Front of House Managers. Overall, this position is expected to continue offering promising career prospects and play a vital role in the Australian job market.