As the leader of a restaurant, the role of a Restaurant General Manager (RGM) can have a significant impact on the success or failure of the business. A well-written and tailored RGM resume can be the key to obtaining a highly coveted position at a company. This article will provide an in-depth guide on exactly what a Restaurant General Manager does and what they need to succeed in this field.

At its core, a Restaurant General Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of a restaurant, including managing staff and customers, finances, and inventory. An RGM needs to have a multitude of skills in order to succeed in this role. Exceptional people management, financial acumen, and strategic thinking all play a large part in the key responsibilities an RGM must be prepared for.

Perhaps the most crucial aspect of a successful RGM is the ability to manage and communicate with employees effectively. This requires a strong sense of emotional intelligence and leadership skills. An RGM should be able to listen, empathize, and direct employees appropriately in order to create an environment in which staff feels heard and motivated to perform their best.

Financial acumen is also essential, as an RGM must manage the financial performance of the restaurant, which involves forecasting revenue and expenses, analyzing financial reports and budgets, and making decisions that positively impact the bottom line.

In addition to people management and financial planning, an RGM must also possess strong analytical and strategic thinking skills. They must be able to think creatively and strategically about the restaurant’s long-term goals and objectives while balancing the day-to-day needs of the business.

The restaurant industry is highly competitive and fast-paced, and a well-crafted RGM resume is essential in order to stand out from the competition. By understanding the key skills and responsibilities of the role, aspiring RGMs can tailor their resume to showcase their unique strengths as a candidate. In the following sections, we’ll dive into the specific components that make up an effective RGM resume.

Key Elements of a Restaurant General Manager Resume

When creating a resume for the position of Restaurant General Manager, it is important to include the essential components that will effectively showcase your skills and experience. A well-crafted resume should grab the attention of hiring managers and entice them to invite you for an interview.

Essential Components of an Effective Resume

Professional Summary/Objective Statement: This section briefly introduces you as a professional and highlights your career goals.
Skills Section: This section lists your top skills, including industry-specific ones such as knowledge of food and beverage operations, staff management, budgeting, and customer service.
Work Experience: This section is where you will showcase your relevant work experience, including job titles, company names, employment dates, and key accomplishments that demonstrate your capabilities as a Restaurant General Manager.
Education: This section includes details of your formal education and any relevant certifications or training courses.
Other Sections: Depending on your experience and background, you may wish to include other sections such as Volunteer or Community Service, Awards and Recognition, or Professional Affiliations.

Tailoring Your Resume to the Restaurant General Manager Role

When tailoring your resume to the Restaurant General Manager role, it is important to emphasize your experience in the food service industry, specifically in management and leadership roles. Create a separate section that highlights your achievements in these areas, including exceeding sales targets, effectively managing budgets, developing menus, and successfully implementing new policies.

Additionally, highlight your experience in customer service, as this is a critical aspect of any restaurant role. Use specific examples to demonstrate how you have resolved customer complaints or improved overall customer satisfaction.

Incorporate industry-specific keywords into your resume, such as “food and beverage operations”, “menu planning”, “cost control”, and “staff training and development”, to help your resume show up in searches and make it clear that you have the required experience.

It is also important to tailor your resume to the specific restaurant you are applying to. Research the company’s values, mission, and menu items to demonstrate that you have a genuine interest in the business and are able to align with its objectives.

Finally, proofread your resume carefully, paying attention to grammar, punctuation, and formatting. A well-written, error-free resume will create a positive impression on your potential employer and increase your chances of landing the job.

By including these key elements and tailoring your resume to the Restaurant General Manager role, you will create a strong and effective document that showcases your qualifications and experience, setting you apart from other candidates.

Restaurant General Manager Resume Example

When creating a resume for a Restaurant General Manager, there are certain key elements and formatting tips that should be incorporated to capture the attention of hiring managers in the industry. In this section, we will provide a comprehensive sample resume for a Restaurant General Manager, highlighting these important elements and tips.

Key Elements in a Restaurant General Manager Resume

Header and Contact Information: The header of the resume should contain the name, phone number, email address, and location of the applicant. This information should be clear and easy to read, as it serves as the starting point for the hiring manager.
Summary Statement: A well-crafted summary statement should grab the reader’s attention and entice them to read further. It should give an overview of the applicant’s experience and skills in the industry, and how they fit the needs of the company.
Professional Experience: This section should be the main focus of the resume, highlighting the applicant’s achievements and responsibilities in previous restaurant management roles. It should be organized in reverse chronological order and include the name and location of the establishment, the dates of employment, and a detailed description of the applicant’s duties and accomplishments.
Education and Certifications: This section should outline the applicant’s educational background, as well as any relevant certifications they may have obtained in the industry, such as food safety certifications.
Skills: This section should detail the specific skills and abilities that the applicant possesses, such as leadership, communication, and the ability to manage budgets and inventory.

Formatting Tips for a Restaurant General Manager Resume

Length: As a general rule, a Restaurant General Manager resume should be no longer than two pages in length. It should be easy to read, with clear headings and bullet points.
Font and Style: The font should be professional and easy to read, such as Times New Roman or Arial. The style should be traditional, with black text on a white background.
Keywords: Incorporating keywords that are relevant to the restaurant industry can help the resume stand out and catch the attention of the hiring manager. This could include specific job titles, skills, or industry-specific terminology.
Customization: Customizing the resume to fit the specific company and job posting can show the hiring manager that the applicant is a good fit for the position. This could include tailoring the summary statement or professional experience section to highlight relevant experience.

A Restaurant General Manager resume should showcase the applicant’s experience, skills, and achievements in the industry, while being formatted in a way that is professional and easy to read. Following these key elements and formatting tips can help increase the chances of getting an interview and landing the job.

Professional Summary

Your professional summary is like the trailer of a movie, it gives a sneak peek of what to expect in the full feature. It is usually the first thing a hiring manager sees on your resume and determines whether they will take the time to read further. Therefore, it is crucial to craft an engaging and impactful summary that catches the employer’s attention. Here are some tips to help you:

1. Know Your Audience

Before you start crafting your summary, it’s essential to know the employer’s needs, values, and goals. Research the company’s mission statement, job description, and values stated on their website or social media. This information will help you tailor the summary to fit the employer’s expectations.

2. Highlight Your Strongest Attributes

Your professional summary should showcase your unique selling proposition (USP); what sets you apart from other candidates. Highlight your most relevant and impressive achievements, skills, and experiences that align with the employer’s needs. Use action verbs and quantifiable metrics to illustrate your accomplishments.

3. Keep it Concise and Relevant

Your summary should be brief, ideally not more than three to four sentences. Avoid fluff and irrelevant information that distracts from your USP. Your summary should be concise, compelling, and relevant to the employer’s needs.

Examples of Strong Professional Summary Statements

Restaurant General Manager with over ten years of experience leading teams, managing food and labor costs, and increasing sales revenue by 25%. Skilled in maintaining high standards of customer service, reducing employee turnover, and creating profitable partnerships with local vendors.
Highly motivated and driven Restaurant General Manager with a proven track record of success in a fast-paced environment. Recognized for implementing cost-effective strategies that saved the restaurant 30% in expenses, while maintaining high employee morale and satisfaction.

Examples of Weak Professional Summary Statements

Seeking a Restaurant General Manager position with hopes of utilizing my skills to grow the business.
Experienced Restaurant General Manager looking for new opportunities.

Your professional summary is your first impression to a hiring manager. It should be brief, compelling, and tailor-made to fit the employer’s needs. Remember to highlight your USP, use quantifiable metrics and action verbs, and keep it concise and relevant. Use the examples provided as a guide to create a winning professional summary statement.

Key Skills and Relevant Experience

As a Restaurant General Manager, certain skills are necessary to succeed in the role. The ability to lead and manage a team, excellent communication skills, and a deep understanding of the restaurant industry are key skills required for success.

When it comes to showcasing relevant experience on a resume, it’s essential to focus on both the qualifications you hold and the experience you have gained. Start by highlighting any management experience you have, including the number of employees you have managed and the level of responsibility you have held. Use bullet points to detail your achievements in each role, highlighting your contributions to improving sales, customer satisfaction, and staff retention.

Now let’s take a closer look at some of the most relevant skills and experiences for a Restaurant General Manager.

Relevant Skills

Leadership: As the head of the restaurant, you will be responsible for managing a team of employees, motivating them to perform at their best, and setting clear goals for them to work towards.
Communication: Effective communication is key, both with your staff and with customers. You need to be able to communicate clearly and professionally, whether you are delegating tasks, providing feedback, or handling customer complaints.
Industry Knowledge: In addition to understanding the ins and outs of restaurant operations, it’s essential to stay up-to-date on the latest industry trends and regulations.
Financial Management: As the manager, you will need to have a deep understanding of the restaurant’s finances, including budgeting, profit and loss management, and inventory control.

Relevant Experience

Management Experience: Managing a team in a restaurant setting demonstrates your ability to handle a high-pressure work environment while ensuring your staff is performing at their best.
Customer Service Experience: As a Restaurant General Manager, you will be responsible for ensuring the satisfaction of your customers. Highlight any experience you have in customer service roles, particularly in the restaurant industry.
Sales and Marketing Experience: Demonstrating success in driving sales and increasing revenue is a critical skill for a Restaurant General Manager. If you have experience in sales or marketing roles, particularly in the restaurant industry, be sure to highlight that on your resume.

A Restaurant General Manager needs to possess strong leadership skills and the ability to manage a team effectively, exceptional communication skills, and a deep understanding of the restaurant industry. Highlighting both your qualifications and experience on your resume is essential, particularly if you have experience in management, customer service, sales, or marketing roles.

Accomplishments and Achievements

As a Restaurant General Manager, it is essential to showcase your accomplishments and achievements in your resume to standout from the competition. Highlighting quantifiable results can demonstrate your ability to deliver positive impact and drive successful outcomes.

When presenting accomplishments on a resume, it is crucial to make them compelling and eye-catching for the reader. Utilizing action verbs and emphasizing specific numbers and percentages can grab their attention and show the scope of your success.

For instance, instead of simply stating, “Increased sales revenue,” try rephrasing it as, “Achieved a 15% increase in sales revenue by implementing a new marketing strategy.” By using specific numbers and outlining the steps taken to achieve the result, you provide more context and make a stronger case for your value as a candidate.

Here are some examples of impressive achievements that Restaurant General Managers can highlight on their resumes:

Led a team of 25+ employees to exceed quarterly sales targets by 20%
Implemented a cost-saving measure that resulted in a $50,000 annual reduction in expenses
Successfully trained and mentored three Assistant General Managers, all of whom were promoted within six months
Maintained a 95% customer satisfaction rate over a two-year period
Spearheaded the launch of a new menu item that generated $100,000 in sales in the first six months

By including accomplishments like these on your resume, you demonstrate your ability to drive results and continuously improve the restaurant’s performance. This can give you a competitive edge when applying for Restaurant General Manager positions.

Educational Background

As the Restaurant General Manager is a leadership role that requires a broad range of skills, there are several educational qualifications that can be desirable for candidates applying for this position. The ideal candidate should possess a combination of academic and vocational training, as well as relevant work experience.

A Bachelor’s degree in business management, hospitality or a related field is commonly seen as an advantage for this role. Additionally, candidates with certifications or diplomas in food service management, culinary arts, or business administration are often preferred by employers.

How to List Educational Qualifications on a Resume

When listing educational qualifications on a resume, it is important to highlight the most relevant qualifications that make you suited for the Restaurant General Manager position. Ideally, you should start by listing your highest level of education.

For example, if you hold a Bachelor’s degree in business management, include the name of the institution, your field of study, and the year of graduation. Also, mention any relevant coursework that may be of interest to an employer, such as courses related to restaurant management, finance, or marketing.

If you have certifications or diplomas related to the restaurant industry, include them under a separate “Certifications and Awards” section. Make sure to mention the name of the institution that provided the certification and the year it was earned.

Finally, if you have relevant work experience, consider including it alongside your educational qualifications. This could help to demonstrate your ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world situations.

When listing your educational qualifications on a resume, it is essential to focus on the most relevant qualifications for the Restaurant General Manager position. By doing so, you can increase your chances of standing out to potential employers and landing the job you want.

Professional Certifications and Licenses

Professional certifications and licenses are becoming increasingly important in the restaurant industry. They demonstrate that a Restaurant General Manager (RGM) possesses the skills and knowledge needed to advance in their career and effectively manage their restaurant operations.

One of the primary benefits of obtaining professional certifications and licenses is that they provide RGMs with a competitive edge in the job market. Restaurant owners and hiring managers are often more likely to hire candidates who have acquired relevant certifications and licenses, as it shows that they have taken the initiative to develop their skills and knowledge.

Moreover, certifications and licenses also indicate the level of dedication that RGMs have towards their profession. The process of obtaining a license or certification often involves extensive education and training, which signifies that the RGM is committed to being the best at their job and meeting industry standards.

There are various certifications and licenses that RGMs can obtain to enhance their resumes and make them more competitive in the job market. Here are some examples:

Food Protection Manager Certification

Obtaining a Food Protection Manager Certification is mandatory in most states. This certification demonstrates that the RGM knows how to handle food safely and prevent contamination. It covers various topics, such as hygiene practices, cross-contamination, temperature control, and foodborne illness prevention.

ServSafe Certification

The ServSafe certification is another essential certification for RGMs. It involves a rigorous training program and a comprehensive exam that tests the RGM’s knowledge of food safety practices. This certification is recognized by most restaurants and is often considered a minimum requirement for managerial positions.

Certified Restaurant Professional (CRP)

The Certified Restaurant Professional (CRP) certification program is designed to recognize RGMs who have demonstrated exceptional skills and knowledge in restaurant management. The certification covers a variety of topics, such as finance, marketing, human resources, and restaurant operations.

Wine and Beverage Certificate

A Wine and Beverage Certificate is another certification that can set an RGM apart from their peers. This certification covers topics such as wine selection, wine pairing, and beverage service.

Obtaining professional certifications and licenses is an important step towards advancing one’s career in the restaurant industry. It demonstrates a commitment to excellence and provides RGMs with essential skills and knowledge to manage their restaurants effectively. As the industry becomes more competitive, the demand for certified RGMs will only increase, so it’s essential to prioritize ongoing education and certification.

Relevant Projects and Volunteer Work

As a Restaurant General Manager, your relevant projects and volunteer work can be just as important as your professional experience. Volunteer work and projects demonstrate valuable skills and experience that employers look for when evaluating potential candidates. Here are some tips on how to use your non-professional experience to showcase your abilities and examples of volunteer work and projects you can include on your resume:

Using Non-Professional Experience to Show Valuable Skills

Don’t underestimate the power of volunteer work and personal projects when it comes to demonstrating your skills and experience. Whether you have organized a community event, volunteered for a charity organization, or started your own food blog, these experiences showcase your ability to take initiative, communicate effectively, and manage projects. Managers look for candidates who are self-motivated and can think creatively about problem-solving. Including these experiences on your resume can show that you have practical skills that will be valuable in a restaurant management role.

Examples of Volunteer Work and Projects that can be included on a Restaurant General Manager’s Resume

Organizing a Charity Event: If you have organized a charity event, you can highlight the skills you used to plan and execute the event. This experience showcases your ability to manage timelines, delegate tasks, and work collaboratively with others.
Starting a Food Blog: If you have started a food blog, you can highlight your skills in content creation, social media management, and project management. This experience demonstrates your ability to write professionally, promote your work on social media, and manage the operation of a small business.
Volunteering at a Soup Kitchen: If you have volunteered at a soup kitchen, you can highlight your skills in working with a diverse group of people, customer service, and crisis management. This experience shows that you can adapt to difficult situations, work under pressure, and exhibit empathy and compassion for others.
Leading a Fundraising Campaign: If you have led a fundraising campaign, you can demonstrate your ability to create and manage a budget, communicate effectively with donors, and motivate a team to achieve a specific goal. This experience shows that you have practical skills that can be transferred to a managerial role in a restaurant.

Including relevant projects and volunteer work on your resume can set you apart from other candidates and showcase your unique skills and experience. It’s important to highlight how your non-professional experience translates into qualities that are necessary for a Restaurant General Manager role, such as problem-solving, communication, and leadership. By doing so, you’ll improve your chances of securing an interview and landing your dream job!

Keywords and Phrases

As a Restaurant General Manager, it is crucial to include relevant keywords and phrases in your resume to increase your chances of getting noticed by recruiters and hiring managers. These keywords and phrases provide an accurate representation of your skills and experience, helping the employer quickly assess your suitability for the job.

But how do you identify the most effective keywords and phrases to use in your resume? Here are some tips to get you started:

Study the Job Posting: The job posting provides valuable information about the skills and attributes the employer is looking for in a Restaurant General Manager. Identify the keywords and phrases used in the job posting and incorporate them into your resume.
Look for Industry-Specific Keywords: Look for industry-specific keywords and phrases that are commonly used in the restaurant industry. These may include terms such as “food and beverage”, “customer service”, “inventory management”, “team leadership”, and “time management”.
Use Action Verbs: Use strong action verbs to describe your achievements and responsibilities. Action verbs such as “developed”, “managed”, “achieved”, and “increased” highlight your accomplishments in a way that grabs the attention of the reader.
Include Certifications and Training: If you have any relevant certifications and training, include them in your resume. These credentials act as keywords and demonstrate your expertise in the field.
Utilize Online Tools: Use online tools such as LinkedIn and Google Trends to identify the most commonly used keywords and phrases in the restaurant industry. Incorporate these keywords into your resume to increase your chances of getting noticed by recruiters.

By incorporating relevant keywords and phrases into your Restaurant General Manager resume, you are giving yourself a competitive advantage in the job market. Be sure to tailor your resume to each job posting and include the most effective keywords and phrases to increase your chances of getting hired.

Resume Formatting and Layout

One of the crucial steps in creating a successful Restaurant General Manager resume is presenting it in a way that catches the employer’s attention. The format and layout can make or break the hiring manager’s first impression of your qualifications.

In this section, we will delve into the intricacies of resume formatting and layout, providing you with a comprehensive guide on how to develop a remarkable resume that stands out from the rest.

How to Format a Restaurant General Manager Resume for Maximum Impact

Before we jump into the specifics, it is essential to understand that a well-formatted resume should cater to industry standards and highlight your unique selling points. Here are some tips to create an effective resume format:

1. Organize your resume layout

Make sure your resume is organized, easy to read, and highlights your professional experience. Your work experience should be detailed and towards the top of your resume. Begin with your most recent job and work backward.

Additionally, add a well-designed header that includes your name, contact information, and a professional summary or career objective.

2. Use appropriate section titles

Clearly label your resume sections with appropriate titles, i.e., Professional Experience, Skills, Certifications, Education, etc.

3. Prioritize Content

Use bullet points to list your key responsibilities, achievements, and relevant experience. Hiring managers typically spend six seconds reviewing resumes, so ensure you include the most relevant information that demonstrates your qualifications.

4. Be Concise

The language used should be straightforward and professional. Avoid using verbose or flowery language, and instead stick to the facts. This allows hiring managers to identify your strengths and assess your qualifications quickly.

Examples of Appropriate and Effective Formatting Choices

Now that you know why it’s essential to have a well-formatted resume, let’s explore some of the formatting choices that make your Restaurant General Manager Resume stand out:

1. Choose a clear and legible font

Some tried and true fonts include Arial, Calibri, and Helvetica. These fonts are easy to read and are well-respected in business writing.

2. Make use of bullet points

Bullet points are a great way of organizing your responsibilities and achievements. They are easy to scan and highlight your most relevant experience.

3. Bolden Job Titles

It is imperative to highlight your job titles to ensure immediate recognition of your experience.

4. Use color sparingly

Professional resumes are typically black and white. However, a strategically placed pop of color can make a resume stand out.

Formatting and presentation are integral parts of developing an exceptional Restaurant General Manager Resume. By using the tips above, you’ll be able to create a well-crafted resume that will make a lasting impression on a potential employer.

Restaurant General Manager Resume Example & Guide for 2025