Moving from bar manager to area manager

Question

"Having been a serious bar manager for several years, how can I progress my career to area management level, when there never seems to be any of these vacancies at trainee or junior level? What is the next step for a bar manager of a managed house?"

Josie, Norwich

What the expert says

Kim Parish, human resources director, Scottish & Newcastle Retail

"Every company is always looking out for talented individuals who want to grow their careers. If you are seriously considering a move into area management then here are a few pointers.

Start by performing at the highest possible level in your own house. This includes demonstrating effective team management standards by delegating tasks and responsibilities and running team meetings. You should also be actively involved in developing your business and grasping new opportunities. External activities that allow you to demonstrate your ability to organize, manage events from a distance and influence others are a useful asset.

Consider the type and size of unit you are currently running. It may be beneficial to move to a larger, more complex style of operation where your management abilities are stretched by the variety of offers and the size of the staff team.

See what opportunities are available to enlarge your current role, for example by becoming a trainer manager or by taking on a championship role which allows you to demonstrate influencing abilities with your peers.

Consider taking a first step out of house management into another non-house based role. This is usually an effective first step that will broaden experience before considering the more senior role of area manager. Examples of these roles include stock controller, training executive, catering executive, etc.

Ensure that your area manager and HR manager are aware of your interest. Take the opportunity to ask them what opportunities are available and ask what competencies are required for non-house management roles. Review your own skills and experiences against these, see where you may have gaps and investigate ways to address them.

If your company offers a trainee area manager position you should check what skills and experiences they would be looking for from candidates for these positions.

Finally, remember that companies like staff who are keen and want to better themselves. If you follow these suggestions, you are sure to reach your goal."

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