Pre-Opening Manager – QSR Operations

About the role

A client of Black Pearl Consult is looking for an experienced Pre-Opening Manager to lead the launch and operational readiness of new Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) outlets across Dubai and the UAE. The role suits a hands-on operations professional with a proven track record in pre-opening projects within QSR, fast-casual, cloud kitchen or multi-site restaurant sectors. The successful candidate manages the full pre-opening lifecycle so outlets are operational, compliant, staffed and ready from day one.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and manage end-to-end pre-opening activities for new outlets, ensuring timely launches.
• Develop opening plans, project timelines and operational readiness checklists.
• Coordinate with landlords, contractors, consultants and government authorities to meet opening requirements.
• Oversee licensing, permits, approvals and regulatory compliance.
• Manage vendor onboarding, supplier setup, equipment procurement and infrastructure readiness.
• Ensure POS platforms, delivery channels and technology solutions are functional before launch.
• Coordinate recruitment, workforce planning, onboarding and training for new outlet teams.
• Standardize operational policies, procedures and SOPs across locations.
• Work with culinary and operations teams on menu readiness, quality standards and inventory planning.
• Set up aggregator platforms such as Talabat, Deliveroo, Noon Food and Careem.
• Run pre-opening audits, operational testing and launch readiness checks.
• Monitor budgets, timelines, risks and milestones, reporting progress to senior management.

Required profile

• Minimum 8+ years of progressive experience strictly within QSR, fast-casual, cloud kitchen or multi-unit restaurant operations.
• Proven experience managing multiple pre-opening projects from planning to commercial launch.
• Current, working knowledge of UAE/Dubai municipality regulations, food safety codes and licensing workflows.
• Ability to manage complex timelines and multiple site launches at once.
• Strong communication skills with landlords, contractors, inspectors and executives.
• Hands-on leadership style under pressure.
• Currently based in the UAE and able to attend interviews at short notice; immediate availability is prioritized.

Required skills

• Advanced understanding of modern kitchen logistics, POS systems and aggregator algorithms.
• Prior experience scaling regional or international QSR, fast-casual or cloud kitchen brands during rapid growth is highly desirable.