What to Look Out for When Hiring A New General Manager for Your Bar or Restaurant – Up2staff

So, you’ve got a fantastic bar or restaurant, a place that buzzes with energy, serves up delectable dishes or killer cocktails, and generally makes people happy. But let’s be real, running a hospitality hotspot isn’t just about good vibes; it’s a finely tuned machine that needs an expert hand at the helm. That’s where your General Manager comes in, the true maestro conducting the symphony of service, food, and finances. Think of them as the heart of your operation. Getting this hire right? Absolutely crucial. Getting it wrong? Well, let’s just say it can send ripples through your entire establishment faster than a spilled pint on a busy Friday night.

The role of a General Manager (GM) in today’s dynamic hospitality scene is more complex than ever. They aren’t just glorified supervisors; they’re strategic thinkers, operational gurus, HR whizzes, marketing maestros, and sometimes, even impromptu therapists for both staff and customers. They’re the ones who ensure your vision translates into reality, that your brand ethos is upheld, and that your bottom line stays healthy. In a world where diners and drinkers have endless options, a truly exceptional GM can be the difference between a fleeting trend and a beloved institution. We’re talking about someone who can navigate everything from supply chain hiccups to staff disputes with grace and grit. It’s a tough gig, no doubt, but the right person makes it look easy. So, as you embark on the hunt for your next hospitality champion, what exactly should you be looking for? Let’s dive in.

First off, let’s talk about a quality that often gets overlooked in the rush to tick off skillboxes: genuine passion. You can teach someone systems, sure, but you can’t instill a fire in their belly for hospitality. You want a GM who loves the chaos, the camaraderie, the sheer joy of creating memorable experiences. This isn’t just a job for them; it’s a calling. “For us, a GM needs to really understand the soul of the place,” says an insider from The Semi-Tropic in Los Angeles, a spot renowned for its laid-back cool and fantastic natural wine selection. “It’s not just about managing shifts or inventory. It’s about embodying the vibe and making every guest feel like they’re stepping into their favorite, most comfortable space. They’ve got to be an ambassador, not just a manager.” That’s a powerful insight, isn’t it? It underscores the notion that the right GM will seamlessly integrate into your establishment’s identity.

Beyond the intangible, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty: operational prowess. Your GM needs to be a wizard when it comes to the day-to-day grind. Can they forecast demand accurately? Are they adept at inventory management, minimising waste and maximising profit? Do they understand the intricate dance of front-of-house and back-of-house operations? A good GM can walk into a bustling kitchen and spot an inefficiency, or observe a server’s interaction and identify areas for improvement, all without missing a beat. They’re problem-solvers on the fly, able to pivot when a delivery is late or a key staff member calls in sick. This isn’t just about knowing the ropes; it’s about anticipating issues before they become crises. They’re the strategic chess players of your business.

Financial acumen is another non-negotiable. While they might not be your head accountant, your GM needs a solid grasp of profit and loss statements, budgeting, and cost control. They’re the ones who can identify where money’s bleeding out – perhaps through inefficient ordering or excessive overtime – and plug those leaks. They should be able to analyse sales data, understand pricing strategies, and contribute meaningfully to your business’s financial health. An excellent GM sees the big picture, understanding how every operational decision impacts the bottom line. It’s about smart spending and strategic saving.

Now, let’s talk people. Hospitality is, at its core, a people business. Your GM is the direct leader of your staff, the one who motivates them, trains them, and crucially, retains them.1 High staff turnover is a plague on the industry, and a great GM can be your antidote. They’re skilled communicators, able to give constructive feedback without deflating spirits. They’re conflict mediators, capable of resolving disputes fairly and efficiently. They’re also talent scouts, able to identify potential in their team and nurture it. When staff feel valued, heard, and supported by their GM, they’re far more likely to stay, to perform better, and to contribute positively to your establishment’s atmosphere. Think about it: a happy team means happy customers. “It’s all about creating a positive work environment where people feel empowered and respected,” explains the proprietor of The Greyhound Inn in Chalfonts St Peter, a charming British pub known for its warm welcome and loyal staff. “Our GM is the heart of our team. They’re the one who sets the tone, ensures everyone’s on the same page, and genuinely cares about their well-being. That translates directly into the amazing service our guests receive.” This highlights a profound truth: leadership by example cultivates loyalty and excellence.

Crisis management skills are also paramount. Let’s face it, things go wrong in hospitality. A burst pipe, a power outage, an unexpected health inspection, or even a particularly rowdy customer – a GM needs to be the calm in the storm. They should be able to assess a situation quickly, make decisive decisions under pressure, and communicate effectively with both staff and customers to mitigate damage and maintain composure. This isn’t just about problem-solving; it’s about maintaining your establishment’s reputation and ensuring safety amidst unforeseen challenges. They’re your emergency responders, ready to spring into action at a moment’s notice.

Beyond these core competencies, look for a GM who is genuinely adaptable. The industry is constantly evolving, with new trends, technologies, and customer expectations emerging all the time. Your GM should be curious, willing to learn, and open to implementing new ideas. Do they keep up with industry news? Are they interested in exploring new systems or strategies that could benefit your business? Stagnation is the enemy of success in hospitality, and an innovative GM will ensure your bar or restaurant remains fresh and relevant. They’re not just maintaining the status quo; they’re pushing the boundaries.

Finally, and perhaps most importantly, trust your gut. You’ll be working closely with this person; they’ll be representing your brand. Do they align with your values? Do they exude professionalism, integrity, and a strong work ethic? Do they inspire confidence? The chemistry, or lack thereof, can make a huge difference. A GM isn’t just an employee; they’re a partner in your business’s success. You want someone who shares your vision and is as invested in its triumph as you are. “We look for someone who truly embodies the spirit of our establishment,” shares a manager from Reichenbach Hall in New York, a bustling German beer hall known for its authentic atmosphere and lively crowd. “It’s not just about qualifications on paper. It’s about that undeniable spark, that commitment to creating a memorable experience for every single person who walks through our doors. They need to genuinely love what they do, and that passion radiates.” That passion, that deep-seated belief in the mission, is contagious and translates directly to the customer experience.

Hiring a General Manager isn’t a task to be taken lightly. It’s a strategic investment in the future of your bar or restaurant. Take your time, cast a wide net, and be incredibly thorough in your vetting process. Look beyond the resume and delve into their approach to leadership, their problem-solving skills, their understanding of financials, and crucially, their genuine love for the demanding yet incredibly rewarding world of hospitality. The right GM won’t just manage your business; they’ll elevate it, ensuring your establishment not only survives but truly thrives in a competitive landscape. They’re the linchpin, the cornerstone, the unsung hero of your culinary or cocktail empire. Choose wisely, and watch your business flourish.