Deputy General Manager

Cosmo-Derby; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 42,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Opportunities for career growth

Collaborative team environment

Impact on restaurant's success

Job summary

Cosmo Authentic World Kitchen in the United Kingdom is seeking a proactive Deputy General Manager to support the General Manager in guiding daily restaurant operations, leading teams, and delivering exceptional guest experiences.

You will assist with budgeting, forecasting, and cost control, manage staffing and training, ensure health and safety compliance, and help drive profitability while maintaining high service standards across front and back of house.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience in restaurant or hospitality
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure
• Knowledge of budgeting, cost control and financial reporting
• Understanding of food safety and health regulations

Responsibilities

• Assist the General Manager in overseeing all restaurant operations and day-to-day performance
• Lead, train, and motivate staff to uphold service standards
• Support budgeting, forecasting and cost-control activities
• Manage inventory, suppliers and stock to optimise costs
• Ensure health and safety, hygiene and policy compliance
• Address customer feedback promptly and professionally
• Coordinate staffing and scheduling for peak hours
• Contribute to marketing, events and promotions to drive sales
• Step in for the General Manager during absence and handle operations accordingly
• Participate in recruitment and performance management of staff
• Resolve guest complaints to sustain high customer satisfaction
• Support development of strategies to improve profitability and guest experience
• Foster a collaborative and positive working environment

Job description

At COSMO Authentic World Kitchen, we don’t just serve food—we’ve redefined the dining experience. As the pioneers of the world buffet concept, we’ve been setting the standard in global dining since 2003. Recognised as the Best Restaurant in 100 Brands by the Savanta Brand Vue Survey, we’ve grown into a household name across the UK and Ireland, with a legacy built on innovation and excellence.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Deputy General Manager to assist in the day-to-day operations of our restaurant. As the Deputy General Manager, you will work closely with the General Manager to lead the team, optimize restaurant operations, ensure excellent customer service, and maintain financial and operational targets. The ideal candidate will have proven leadership experience in the restaurant industry, a passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences, and the ability to support the GM in managing all aspects of restaurant operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the General Manager in overseeing all restaurant operations, ensuring smooth day-to-day performance.
• Lead, train, and motivate staff to provide high-quality service and uphold company standards.
• Support the General Manager in managing financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, and cost control.
• Ensure inventory levels are maintained, suppliers are managed, and stock is controlled to prevent waste and optimize cost efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, food safety standards, and internal policies.
• Monitor customer feedback and service quality, ensuring that any issues are addressed promptly and effectively.
• Coordinate staffing levels, managing schedules and ensuring optimal team performance during peak hours.
• Help with the implementation of marketing initiatives, events, and promotions to drive traffic and increase sales.
• Take responsibility for the restaurant in the absence of the General Manager, overseeing operations, staff, and customer experience.
• Participate in recruitment, training, and performance management for restaurant staff.
• Handle guest complaints and resolve issues efficiently and professionally to maintain customer satisfaction.
• Ensure that the restaurant meets all operational and service standards consistently.
• Assist in managing P&L, monitoring performance, and identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Assist in developing strategies to improve profitability, reduce costs, and enhance the guest experience.
• Foster a positive working environment, encouraging teamwork, motivation, and employee retention.

Key Requirements

• Proven experience as a Deputy General Manager, Assistant Manager, or in a leadership role within the restaurant or hospitality industry.
• Strong knowledge of restaurant operations, including both front-of-house and back-of-house.
• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and guide staff at all levels.
• In-depth understanding of budgeting, cost control, and financial reporting for restaurant operations.
• Ability to manage customer service issues, guest complaints, and operational challenges in a calm and professional manner.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation standards, and local health regulations.
• Proficient in the use of POS systems, inventory management, and scheduling tools.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and work well under pressure.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Passion for the restaurant industry and a commitment to providing a positive customer experience.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Opportunities for career growth and advancement within a dynamic restaurant group.
• A collaborative and supportive team environment.
• The chance to make a significant impact on the restaurant's success.

If you are a proactive, motivated leader with a passion for hospitality and restaurant operations, we want to hear from you.

Compensation: Competitive salary