Working as a Restaurant Manager at Pizza Express means taking on a leadership role in one of the UK’s most well-known casual dining chains. You’re not just overseeing daily operations—you’re shaping customer experience, leading a high-performing team, and driving business results. The position typically commands a salary ranging from £28,000 to £35,000 annually, with the potential for bonuses based on performance. Ideal candidates are proactive leaders with a passion for food, customer service, and operational excellence.
To help you succeed in your upcoming interview, we’ve compiled the top 20 most commonly asked Pizza Express Restaurant Manager interview questions—along with thoughtful, tailored answers to give you the edge.
1. Tell us about yourself.
This is your opportunity to briefly showcase your background in hospitality, leadership style, and career achievements.
Sample Answer:
I have over seven years of experience in the hospitality sector, with four years in management. My passion is creating seamless dining experiences while coaching and empowering my team. I’ve successfully improved staff retention and consistently met revenue targets in my previous role at a high-volume casual dining restaurant.
2. Why do you want to work for Pizza Express?
Be specific and align your answer with their brand values.
Sample Answer:
I admire Pizza Express for its emphasis on fresh ingredients, team culture, and commitment to customer satisfaction. I resonate with your values of authenticity and excellence, and I’m excited to contribute my leadership skills to continue that legacy.
3. How do you handle staff shortages during busy shifts?
Show your resourcefulness and calm under pressure.
Sample Answer:
I cross-train team members to handle multiple roles, which builds flexibility. During staff shortages, I step in where needed and reassign responsibilities dynamically, always ensuring service quality isn’t compromised.
4. What steps do you take to ensure excellent customer service?
Demonstrate your understanding of hospitality standards.
Sample Answer:
I set clear service standards, provide regular training, and lead by example. I also regularly collect feedback and use it to refine our processes, ensuring each guest leaves happy and eager to return.
5. How do you manage underperforming staff?
Pizza Express values coaching over criticism.
Sample Answer:
I believe in early intervention. I have one-on-one discussions to understand the root cause, set achievable improvement goals, and provide support through coaching. Consistent feedback and follow-up help turn performance around.
6. What would you do if a customer complained about a cold pizza?
Keep your answer focused on empathy and fast resolution.
Sample Answer:
I would apologise sincerely, offer to remake the pizza immediately, and ensure it’s prioritized. I’d also offer a gesture of goodwill, like a free dessert or discount, and thank them for bringing it to our attention.
7. How do you motivate your team?
Highlight leadership and emotional intelligence.
Sample Answer:
Recognition goes a long way. I celebrate small wins, provide clear growth paths, and ensure the team feels heard. I also tailor my approach based on individual motivations—some thrive on responsibility, others on learning new skills.
8. How do you manage food and labour costs?
Operational awareness is crucial for this role.
Sample Answer:
I monitor inventory closely, minimise waste, and ensure accurate ordering. For labour, I use rota planning software to forecast busy periods and avoid overstaffing, while ensuring compliance with working hour regulations.
9. Describe a time when you improved a restaurant’s performance.
Use the STAR method.
Sample Answer:
At my last role, we were rated poorly on speed of service. I introduced new workflow procedures and cross-trained the team, cutting wait times by 30% within two months. Customer satisfaction scores jumped as a result.
10. What’s your leadership style?
Self-awareness matters here.
Sample Answer:
I’m a collaborative leader. I set clear goals, empower team members, and believe in open communication. I’m hands-on when needed but also trust my team to take ownership of their roles.
11. How would you handle a disagreement between two staff members?
Demonstrate conflict resolution skills.
Sample Answer:
I’d speak to both parties privately, listen to their perspectives, and mediate a respectful conversation. I aim to understand the root issue and guide them to a resolution that reinforces teamwork and respect.
12. How do you handle high-pressure situations?
Stay cool and results-driven.
Sample Answer:
I stay calm, prioritize tasks, and delegate effectively. Pressure is part of the job, and I’ve found that keeping communication clear and morale high helps the team perform even in peak hours.
13. What’s your approach to health and safety?
Show your awareness of legal and company standards.
Sample Answer:
Health and safety are non-negotiable. I ensure staff are trained regularly, perform routine checks, and follow all Food Standards Agency and company policies. It’s about protecting both staff and guests.
14. How do you train new staff members?
Coaching and development are key to this role.
Sample Answer:
I provide structured onboarding, pair new hires with experienced mentors, and follow up with regular feedback sessions. I believe in creating a supportive environment where staff can ask questions and grow.
15. How would you increase midweek sales?
Show creativity and marketing insight.
Sample Answer:
I’d analyse footfall patterns and consider midweek promotions, loyalty rewards, or themed events. Partnering with local businesses for cross-promotions can also help drive traffic.
16. What KPIs do you track regularly?
Demonstrate your analytical mindset.
Sample Answer:
I monitor sales per head, table turnover rate, labour percentage, customer satisfaction scores, and food wastage. These indicators help guide operational decisions and long-term planning.
17. How do you balance corporate goals with team morale?
A delicate but essential skill.
Sample Answer:
By aligning team goals with corporate targets and showing the “why” behind decisions. I involve the team in setting priorities and celebrate their contributions to the bigger picture.
18. Tell us about a time you dealt with a difficult customer.
Problem-solving under pressure.
Sample Answer:
A customer was upset about a long wait. I apologised, offered a complimentary drink, and personally ensured their food was expedited. They later thanked me for turning the experience around.
19. How would you implement a new company policy?
Rollout and communication are key.
Sample Answer:
I’d introduce the policy in a team meeting, explain the reasoning behind it, and provide written guidance. I’d encourage questions and monitor implementation closely, offering support where needed.
20. Why should we hire you for this role?
End with confidence and clarity.
Sample Answer:
I bring hands-on restaurant management experience, a proven track record of meeting performance targets, and a passion for team leadership. I’m confident I can drive results while upholding the Pizza Express brand experience.
Final Words of Encouragement and Interview Tips
Interviewing for a Pizza Express Restaurant Manager position is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your leadership, business acumen, and love for customer service. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Practice aloud: Rehearse answers to common questions to sound confident and natural.
Know the brand: Brush up on Pizza Express values, recent campaigns, and customer reviews.
Dress professionally: First impressions matter—dress smartly and smile often.
Bring examples: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for scenario-based questions.
Ask smart questions: Show initiative by asking about training, growth opportunities, or team structure.
Good luck—you’ve got this! With preparation and authenticity, you’ll stand out as the leader Pizza Express is looking for.
