Catering and bar managers Pay Data UK — 2025

Catering and bar managers roles in the UK earn a median of £30,978 per year, equivalent to £15.11 per hour as of 2025. This represents a 8.5% increase in annual pay compared to the previous year. Pay varies across the UK, ranging from £25,261 to £45,818 per year.

How Pay Varies Across the UK

Each bar shows how many areas of the UK have a median annual pay in that range for Catering and bar managers roles. The dashed line marks the national median.

Based on sub-regional area data. Want a precise figure for your area?

About Catering and bar managers

Catering and bar managers plan, direct and co-ordinate the catering and bar facilities and services of licensed premises, factories, shops, theatres, educational premises and other establishments. They also manage outside catering businesses and shops selling food cooked on the premises.

Typical Tasks and Duties

• plans catering or bar services and supervises staff
• decides on range and quality of meals and beverages to be provided or discusses customer’s requirements for special occasions
• purchases or directs the purchasing of supplies and arranges for preparation of accounts
• verifies that quality of food, beverages and waiting service are as required and that kitchen and dining areas are kept clean in compliance with statutory requirements
• checks that supplies are properly used and accounted for to prevent wastage and loss and to keep within budget limit

Entry Routes and Qualifications

Entry is possible with a variety of academic qualifications and/or relevant experience. Larger catering and licensed premises chains offer managerial trainee schemes. Candidates for these usually require a BTEC/SQA award, a degree or equivalent qualification, or a professional qualification. Off and on-the-job training is provided. NVQs/SVQs in relevant areas are available at levels 2 to 4.

Related Occupations

Salary data is sourced from official UK pay datasets and updated periodically.