Operations & Compliance Manager – QSR / Cloud Kitchen (Newly Established QSR Group)

Job description / Role

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

Regulatory Compliance & Licensing

• Manage all regulatory requirements for QSR, cloud kitchen, and central kitchen setups in the UAE/GCC.
• Ensure timely approvals for food licenses, HACCP, municipality permits, Civil Defense, and trade licenses.
• Maintain compliance calendars for renewals, inspections, and legal documentation.
• Liaise with authorities, consultants, free zones, and government portals to ensure operational readiness.

Location Scouting & Rental Management

• Identify and validate potential sites for cloud kitchens and QSR outlets based on footfall, accessibility, delivery zones, and cost efficiency.
• Lead lease negotiations, contract renewals, exit terms, and landlord coordination.
• Conduct feasibility assessments for shared kitchens, commissary kitchens, and regional expansion opportunities.

Central Kitchen & Operations Setup

• Drive the setup and integration of central kitchen workflows, equipment planning, hygiene procedures, and production systems.
• Establish SOPs for production, dispatch, receiving, storage, waste control, and food safety.
• Work closely with culinary teams to ensure consistent output across all locations.

Supply Chain & Vendor Development

• Identify and onboard suppliers across proteins, vegetables, sauces, condiments, and QSR raw materials.
• Conduct supplier audits and ensure compliance with HACCP, ISO, and Halal certifications.
• Support procurement by developing cost-efficient supply-chain models and last-mile distribution plans.

Operational Governance & Pre-Opening Execution

• Manage full pre-opening processes—from regulatory filings to site setup and operational launch.
• Coordinate cross-functionally with procurement, HR, finance, marketing, and culinary teams.
• Track operational KPIs including COGS, waste control, supplier performance, and opening timelines.

To be considered for this role, you need to meet the following criteria:

• 8–10+ years of experience in F&B operations, preferably in QSR, cloud kitchens, or FMCG.
• Strong understanding of UAE/GCC municipality and food safety regulations.
• Proven experience in location selection, lease negotiation, and pre-opening operations.
• Experience building supply chain systems and managing vendors.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• UAE/GCC driving license preferred.

About the Company

About Us Helping professionals grow. Supporting businesses thrive.

Black Pearl is a HR consultancy and recruitment firm based in the UAE. We connect skilled professionals with leading organizations across the Gulf region, offering a personalized and thoughtful approach to hiring.

Our team specializes in recruiting for roles across key industries, including but not limited to: - Healthcare and Life Sciences - Engineering and Construction - Technology and Digital - Finance and Accounting - Hospitality and Retail - Government and Emiratization

Whether you’re searching for your next opportunity or looking to hire, we work closely with you to understand your goals and find the right fit.