What is a Duty Manager job?
So, what's a Duty Manager job all about? As a Duty Manager, you’re at the heart of the action, ensuring guests have a fantastic experience and the team stays motivated and on point.
You’ll be stepping in for the General Manager when they’re not around and making sure everything runs smoothly, from front of house to the back kitchen.
It's all about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere for both guests and the team, driving a profitable business, and maintaining our high standards.
Read on to discover what a Duty Manager does on a day-to-day basis, the skills and experience needed to be the best, and the differences between a Manager and Duty Manager job.
Duty Manager roles and responsibilities
Let's dive into the key responsibilities of a Duty Manager at M&B, making sure every shift is a hit and our guests leave with a smile!
- People - you'll lead, train, and motivate your team to deliver top-notch service. From warm welcomes to friendly farewells, you'll ensure every guest feels special and every team member knows their role. Engaging shift briefs, ongoing coaching, and a supportive atmosphere are your tools to create a stellar team.
- Practice - your day starts with smooth opening routines and ends with seamless closing procedures. You'll ensure the pub or restaurant is spotless, health and safety standards are met, and everything from the front of the house to the cellar is in tip-top shape.
- Profit - you're the guardian of the till, keeping a sharp eye on cash management, security, and stock. By minimising wastage and maximising efficiency, you'll keep profits high. Plus, you’ll inspire your team to upsell and boost revenue.
- Guest - collaboration is key – you’ll work closely with the kitchen crew to ensure everything runs like clockwork. By listening to guest feedback and constantly improving the experience, you’ll make sure our food and service are always on point.
How to be a good Duty Manager - Skills
Here are some key skills you'll need as a Duty Manager and how you can use them to really make a difference:
Strategic thinking
- Understand the bigger picture.
- Gather and use information to make smart, timely decisions.
- Plan ahead and adapt to changing circumstances.
Goal setting and coaching
- Set clear goals and expectations for your team.
- Provide ongoing feedback and coaching.
- Help team members reach their full potential and deliver excellent service.
Innovation and adaptability
- Embrace change and find new ways to improve operations.
- Identify root causes of issues and drive continuous improvement.
Team collaboration
- Work well with others and understand team dynamics.
- Provide regular feedback and be open to receiving it from guests and team members.
- Use team differences to make a positive impact.
People development
- Promote a growth mindset.
- Celebrate lessons learned and share experiences.
- Inspire and guide team members to develop and succeed.
What is the difference between a Manager and a Duty Manager?
The main difference between a Manager and a Duty Manager is the scope of responsibilities. As a Duty Manager, you’re often stepping in for the General Manager, ensuring everything runs smoothly in their absence.
While a General Manager has a broader scope of responsibilities including long-term strategic planning, the Duty Manager focuses on the day-to-day operations, making sure guests have a great experience and the team is motivated and well-coordinated.
Progression from Duty Manager to General Manager
Your journey doesn't stop at being a Duty Manager. We believe in nurturing talent and providing clear pathways for career progression.
With dedication, hard work, and the support of our robust training programs, you can climb the ladder to become a General Manager.
As a General Manager, you'll have the opportunity to lead your own team, drive business success, and create memorable experiences for our guests.
Unlock new challenges and opportunities as a Duty Manager at M&B&n
If you're passionate about hospitality, love working with people, and are ready to step up within a supportive culture, then this is the perfect opportunity for you.
Join us as a Duty Manager and be part of a team with endless career and development opportunities.
Receive articles like this
Enter your email address and you will be registered to receive the latest content and insights produced by Company name, direct to your inbox. If you have selected a category or content type you will receive the latest insights from that area.
By clicking submit you agree to our terms and conditions and privacy policy.
See what we’re all about
We're shaping a workplace where everyone thrives. Explore the heart and soul of Mitchells & Butlers by checking out our guiding principles.
Our valuesOur Stories
Teaser
Career AdviceContent Type
BlogPublish date
12/17/2025
Summary
Thinking about your next move as a Head Chef? Maybe you’re ready to lead your own kitchen, or you’re already one of the most senior chefs on the pass and looking for a business that will help you ste
by
Sophie Dawson
Teaser
Career DevelopmentContent Type
BlogPublish date
12/17/2025
Summary
Being a General Manager at M&B means having the keys, literally and figuratively. You’re the person opening up in the morning, setting the mood on a busy Friday night, and making the calls that k
by
Laura Kelly
Teaser
Career DevelopmentContent Type
BlogPublish date
12/17/2025
Summary
Rotisserie chicken. Unlimited salad bars. Proper crowd‑pleasing food. When people think of Harvester, those are usually the first things that spring to mind. But behind every great plate is a buzzing
by
Sophie Russell
Teaser
Our CultureContent Type
BlogPublish date
12/01/2025
Summary
If the thought of tinsel, festive tunes, and roast dinners gets you excited, or even if you’re usually a bit of a Scrooge, then a Christmas chef job might just be your perfect seasonal gig. I
by
Rachel Weaver
Teaser
Career AdviceContent Type
BlogPublish date
11/24/2025
Summary
Landing a kitchen assistant role at M&B is your chance to be part of a busy, buzzing kitchen where every day is a chance to learn, grow, and help create unforgettable dining experiences. But befo
by
Daria Dysarz
Teaser
Our BrandsContent Type
BlogPublish date
11/17/2025
Summary
If you’ve ever enjoyed a Sunday roast with all the trimmings, you’ll know there’s more to Toby Carvery than just giant Yorkshire puddings and crispy roast potatoes. Behind every meal, every fri
by
Rachel Weaver
Teaser
Career AdviceContent Type
BlogPublish date
11/17/2025
Summary
When you think of M&B, you probably picture bustling pubs and restaurants filled with great food, drinks, and friendly faces, from Toby Carvery and All Bar One to Miller & Carter. But behind ever
by
Laura Kelly
Teaser
Our BrandsContent Type
BlogPublish date
11/17/2025
Summary
Step into a world where countryside calm meets something effortlessly stylish, welcome to Premium Country Pubs Collection. Picture this: open log fires, chic interiors, and vibrant terraces for a
by
Rebecca Skeet
Teaser
Career DevelopmentContent Type
BlogPublish date
10/21/2025
Summary
Looking to check in to an exciting future and book yourself a career in property? At M&B, we’ve got just the reservation for you. Our Undergraduate Property Scheme is more than just a placement;
by
Sophie Russell