Restaurant managers are welcome to enter the competition, as are those working in similar roles in other areas of the hospitality industry. Entrants must be accountable for the performance of a business and manage people, staff training and general operations.
The first round consists of an entry form which participants complete online, before the best are chosen to attend a semi-final either in London or the Midlands. The semi-final includes an interview and candidates are also tested on their knowledge of the job, the industry and marketing. Then they must complete a business scenario in front of a panel of judges.
Those who progress from the semi-final are visited at their own establishments by the judge. The winner will be announced at the awards ceremony and dinner at London’s Roof Gardens on 17 November.
Head of judges and former winner Peter Avis, chairman of the UK Restaurant Guild, said: “Since I won the award in 2009 I have felt a massive responsibility to promote the role of restaurant manager as I believe they have a vital role to play in the success of any establishment. This year we are determined to encourage entrants from across the board and highlight what a fantastic career the profession can offer.”
Entry forms can be downloaded at www.restaurantmanageroftheyear.co.uk