General Manager – GCC Retail & F&B Expansion

About the role

We are seeking a General Manager to lead the launch and rapid expansion of a premium multi‑site retail and food‑and‑beverage business across the GCC. Reporting to senior leadership, the role will combine market entry, operational set‑up, franchise governance and commercial performance to build a scalable operation from day one.

Key responsibilities

• Define and execute market entry and expansion strategy for the GCC.
• Build operational systems, processes and leadership capability from the ground up.
• Drive aggressive store rollout while safeguarding profitability, customer experience and brand standards.
• Oversee day‑to‑day store operations, staffing, supply‑chain readiness and performance metrics.
• Manage franchisor and principal relationships to ensure alignment with global brand guidelines.
• Lead site‑selection, mall negotiations and evaluate location economics.
• Establish scalable reporting, governance and operational cadences.
• Develop cross‑functional teams across operations, commercial, HR and support functions.
• Ensure accountability for store performance, expansion milestones and operational KPIs.

Required profile

• 15+ years of leadership experience in multi‑site retail, F&B or consumer businesses.
• Proven track record scaling businesses across the GCC, with specific experience in the UAE.
• Strong operational and commercial leadership, including franchise or principal management.
• Experience with aggressive expansion and store rollout programmes.
• Deep understanding of location economics, mall environments and customer traffic patterns.
• Ability to thrive in founder‑led or entrepreneurial settings with evolving structures.
• Solid financial and commercial acumen with clear grasp of unit economics and profitability drivers.

Required skills