Catering and bar managers Salary
Median salary £27,888 per year (2025). Based on ONS ASHE data.
Gross pay, before deductions. See take-home pay on £28,000 after tax and National Insurance →
For catering and bar managers, £29,789 is the typical (median) pay. That is below the UK full-time median of £39,039 — -24% versus the national average. Experienced catering and bar managers (top 25%) earn over £35,261.
About this role
Catering and bar managers oversee food and beverage service operations in restaurants, bars, hotels, pubs and event venues. They manage staff, service quality, stock, compliance and customer experience to deliver profitable hospitality operations.
Key responsibilities
- Managing front-of-house service operations
- Recruiting, training and supervising service staff
- Managing stock control, ordering and supplier relationships
- Ensuring compliance with licensing, food safety and health regulations
- Monitoring financial performance and controlling costs
Qualifications and entry routes
Significant hospitality experience is essential. Personal Licence holder qualification (APLH) is required for licensing. Level 3+ hospitality management qualifications, Food Safety Level 3 and First Aid are standard.
Career outlook
Persistent staffing challenges in hospitality create opportunities for experienced managers. Food-led venues and experiential hospitality are growth areas.
Key skills
Common industries
- Restaurants
- Pubs and bars
- Hotels
- Event venues
- Contract catering
Data coverage
Salary Range (2025)
Estimated Career Progression
Based on salary percentile distribution for this occupation
Entry Level
£14,404
0-2 years
Mid Level
£21,618
3-7 years
Senior
£35,261
8-15 years
Potential career growth: ▲ +145% from entry to leadership
Salary Trend (2015-2025)
Gender Pay Comparison (2025)
Gender pay gap: 14.2%
Full-time vs All Employees (2025)
Full-time premium: +£1,901
Catering and bar managers salary: common questions
How much do catering and bar managers earn in the UK?
Is £29,789 a good salary in the UK?
What is the starting salary for catering and bar managers?
Have catering and bar managers salaries kept up with inflation?
Is there a gender pay gap for catering and bar managers?
Figures: ONS Annual Survey of Hours and Earnings, gross annual pay. UK full-time median £39,039 (2025).