And the best news is the majority of our General Managers in Training are behind the bar of their own business within 6 months!

So, I know you are probably wondering, what does a General Manager Designate job role consist of and how does it differ form a General Manager role.

In this blog we will speak to GMD Emma who after 16 years in a different industry wanted to take on a new challenge and take the next step in her career, moving into the hospitality industry.

Why did you decide to join hospitality?

I was working in my previous career for 16 years and had lost my enthusiasm for the industry. I wanted a new challenge. I had wanted to get into the hospitality industry for a while and when I saw the GMD role advertised, I jumped at the chance. I really didn’t think I would be given the chance with my lack of experience in hospitality. During my interview it was explained that they were looking for hardworking passionate individuals and I knew I could bring that to the table. My passion is guest experience and I wanted to take that into a role where I could be more creative every day. 

How have you found the transition into hospitality management?

It has been an interesting and exciting transition. There was a lot to learn. I’ve had so much support from everyone at M&B. From the people I was on my induction week with, my brilliant Retail Business Managers (RBM) and the other General Managers (GM) in my district. Everyone has reached out and lent a hand when I’ve needed it. The training is really useful and thorough. I know where I can go to find the answers I need and I am picking more and more up every day. 

How has your past experience prepared you for a role as a General Manager in hospitality?

I have a lot of experience in team training and how to get teams to excel. Building confidence in team members and showing them how to enjoy their work. I have bought this experience with me and now relay this to my own team. My past experience also enabled me to understand business needs and cost control helped me to understand how to run the restaurant successfully. 

What have you enjoyed/found different to your old role?

I enjoy the guests we get to make happy every day. Getting positive reviews from guests from something you or your team have had an impact on us really rewarding. Also turning a negative situation into a positive for a team member or guest is what makes the job worthwhile. The training and induction is more supportive and informative than any other industry I know of. 

What does your current role involve?

My current role ranges from all aspects of running the business. Forecasting my sales figures with my RBM, controlling costs to keep the business profitable, analysing previous weeks business to see what went well or how we can improve. Inputting team schedules, ordering stock and managing stock levels, keeping the building safe and booking in maintenance. I train my team along with my management team. Look out for and hire new talent. Keep the kitchen running smoothly and meeting all aspects of health and safety for guests and team. Replying to all of our guests comment and queries. We have weekly meetings as a district and have tasks to complete, leading by example. 

What is the best thing about working for Mitchells & Butlers?

The best thing about working for M&B is the support and feeling that you are part of a family. I keep in touch with everyone who was on my induction week via WhatsApp groups and meet ups. Even though we all work for different brands we support each other and help each other through our training. The support I receive from my RBM has been amazing. He is always on the end of the phone or free for a coffee when I need him. Everyone in head office has been really supportive and the learning and development team are there when you need them. What I enjoy the most is ensuring all our guests have an enjoyable time when visiting us. 

When did you start as a GMD and what are you doing now?

I started with M&B in early January 2023, and I took over my business as holding General Manager in mid-April. During my training, I spent time at another business with accredited Kitchen Manager Tommy for 4 weeks, to complete my kitchen training. I then went to a further business to work with an experienced General Manager Ashleigh, for my front of house training. I was then given an opportunity to run a further business for a few weeks to find my feet and step into the role before coming to my current business in the position as General Manager. 

Ready to make the move? Find out what a career with M&B could look like for you! 

Now you have an insight into how your skills and experience can transfer into a hospitality management career with M&B, what are you waiting for? Browse our General Manager Designate jobs with M&B today.