A newly established and fast-growing QSR and Cloud Kitchen group in the UAE is expanding its footprint across the Middle East. To support this growth, Black Pearl is recruiting an experienced Operations & Compliance Manager who will take full ownership of setting up, regulating, and running multi-location QSR operations from the ground up.

This role is ideal for someone who is hands-on, highly organized, operationally strong, and deeply familiar with the UAE/GCC F&B regulatory environment. You will be responsible for ensuring smooth pre-opening operations, supply chain readiness, kitchen compliance, and continuous operational excellence across all sites.

Key Responsibilities

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  Manage all regulatory requirements for QSR, cloud kitchen, and central kitchen setups in the UAE/GCC.

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  Ensure timely approvals for food licenses, HACCP, municipality permits, Civil Defense, and trade licenses.

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  Maintain compliance calendars for renewals, inspections, and legal documentation.

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  Liaise with authorities, consultants, free zones, and government portals to ensure operational readiness.

  
  Location Scouting & Rental Management

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  Identify and validate potential sites for cloud kitchens and QSR outlets based on footfall, accessibility, delivery zones, and cost efficiency.

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  Lead lease negotiations, contract renewals, exit terms, and landlord coordination.

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  Conduct feasibility assessments for shared kitchens, commissary kitchens, and regional expansion opportunities.

  
  Central Kitchen & Operations Setup

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  Drive the setup and integration of central kitchen workflows, equipment planning, hygiene procedures, and production systems.

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  Establish SOPs for production, dispatch, receiving, storage, waste control, and food safety.

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  Work closely with culinary teams to ensure consistent output across all locations.

  
  Supply Chain & Vendor Development

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  Identify and onboard suppliers across proteins, vegetables, sauces, condiments, and QSR raw materials.

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  Conduct supplier audits and ensure compliance with HACCP, ISO, and Halal certifications.

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  Support procurement by developing cost-efficient supply-chain models and last-mile distribution plans.

  
  Operational Governance & Pre-Opening Execution

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  Manage full pre-opening processes—from regulatory filings to site setup and operational launch.

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  Coordinate cross-functionally with procurement, HR, finance, marketing, and culinary teams.

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  Track operational KPIs including COGS, waste control, supplier performance, and opening timelines.

Requirements