A Duty Manager at Five Guys plays a pivotal role in maintaining the brand’s high standards of service, food quality, and operational excellence. As the person in charge when higher management is absent, the Duty Manager ensures smooth shift operations, motivates the team, manages customer satisfaction, and supports daily financial and food safety procedures. It’s a role that blends leadership, customer service, and operational skills into one high-energy position.
According to recent industry data, the average salary for a Duty Manager at Five Guys in the UK ranges from £24,000 to £28,000 per year, depending on experience and location. In the U.S., the average salary falls between $38,000 and $45,000 annually, with room for growth into Assistant or General Manager roles.
Top 20 Five Guys Duty Manager Interview Questions and Sample Answers
1. Tell us about yourself and why you want to work at Five Guys.
I have a strong background in food service and team management. What attracts me to Five Guys is its focus on quality, consistency, and team energy. I appreciate the brand’s commitment to customer satisfaction and would love to contribute to that culture in a leadership role.
2. What does excellent customer service mean to you?
Excellent customer service means anticipating the customer’s needs, being proactive, and resolving issues quickly with a positive attitude. At Five Guys, this also means delivering food fast and fresh with a smile.
3. How do you handle stressful situations during a busy shift?
I stay calm, prioritize tasks, and communicate clearly with my team. I also delegate appropriately and keep the focus on the customer experience.
4. How would you motivate your team during a slow or low-energy shift?
I’d energize the team through light-hearted challenges, recognition for great work, and keeping everyone informed of goals. Positive reinforcement and communication go a long way.
5. Describe a time when you had to deal with a difficult customer.
Once, a customer was unhappy with their order. I listened actively, apologized sincerely, and offered a remake or refund. Turning a negative into a positive experience is always the goal.
6. What are the key responsibilities of a Duty Manager?
Leading shifts, managing staff, handling customer complaints, ensuring food safety standards, and assisting with financial operations like tills and cash management.
7. How would you train a new team member during a rush?
I’d assign them a shadow partner, give short but clear instructions, and focus on one task at a time. Post-rush, I’d follow up with full training.
8. How do you ensure food safety and cleanliness in your restaurant?
By conducting regular checks, following protocols strictly, leading by example, and holding the team accountable to hygiene standards.
9. What would you do if a team member wasn’t performing well during a shift?
I’d speak with them privately, offer support, clarify expectations, and help them get back on track. Performance issues should be addressed respectfully and promptly.
10. How do you prioritize tasks during a shift?
I assess what impacts the customer most—like wait times and food quality—then assign responsibilities based on urgency and team strengths.
11. Why do you want to be a Duty Manager specifically, rather than a crew member?
I enjoy leadership, problem-solving, and creating a positive environment. As a Duty Manager, I can influence operations and mentor others, which is highly rewarding.
12. How would you handle a conflict between two team members?
I’d separate them if needed, speak to each one individually, listen objectively, and facilitate a resolution that supports teamwork and respect.
13. What do you know about Five Guys’ brand values?
Five Guys stands for quality, simplicity, freshness, and great customer service. It also values teamwork, energy, and consistent execution.
14. How do you ensure every customer leaves happy?
By checking in with them, resolving issues on the spot, and maintaining a welcoming environment throughout their visit.
15. Tell me about a time you led a successful team.
In my previous role, I led a team during a franchise audit. We passed with top marks due to strong prep, coaching, and clear communication.
16. What would you do if a customer was yelling at a team member?
I’d step in, calmly redirect the conversation, apologize for the issue, and work to find a solution while protecting my team’s dignity.
17. How do you keep your team focused and productive?
By setting clear expectations, offering support, and keeping morale high through feedback and rewards.
18. What are your strengths and weaknesses as a manager?
My strengths include empathy, quick decision-making, and accountability. A past weakness was delegation, but I’ve improved by trusting team members and providing clear guidance.
19. How do you handle last-minute schedule changes or call-outs?
I maintain a contact list of flexible team members, fill gaps quickly, and reward reliability to encourage teamwork during such situations.
20. Where do you see yourself in 2–3 years?
I aim to grow into an Assistant or General Manager role. Five Guys offers a clear growth path, and I’m motivated to climb it through strong performance and leadership.
Final Interview Tips and Encouragement
Preparing for a Five Guys Duty Manager interview is about more than memorizing answers. It’s about demonstrating your leadership, customer focus, and operational knowledge with real-world examples. Here are a few final tips:
Dress smart casual – show you care about the brand and professionalism.
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) when answering behavioral questions.
Bring energy and enthusiasm – Five Guys values high team spirit.
Research the company – know its values, menu, and store layout.
Follow up – send a thank-you email after the interview to reaffirm your interest.
Remember: the interviewer is not just looking for the right answer, but the right attitude. Stay confident, be yourself, and focus on how you can make the team better. You’ve got this!
