Director of Operations

About the role

Daikan is actively seeking a dynamic and experienced Director of Operations to lead the team and oversee daily operations of its esteemed establishments. The Director, as the most senior executive of Daikan Hospitality Group, will set and deliver the Group's vision, strategy and financial performance while driving growth of Daikan Izakaya and Daikan Ramen.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the Group's strategy, growth plans and major business decisions to drive revenue, profitability, brand value and market position.
• Protect and strengthen the Daikan Izakaya and Daikan Ramen brands while ensuring consistent quality, guest experience and brand standards.
• Lead UAE, GCC and international expansion, overseeing site selection, investment feasibility, partnerships and successful new outlet openings.
• Own Group P&L performance, driving revenue, profitability, cost efficiency, cash flow, ROI and key commercial relationships.
• Ensure operational excellence, consistent service and food quality, effective performance systems and full regulatory compliance across the Group.
• Build and lead a high‑performing leadership team while managing key relationships with the Board, investors, landlords, suppliers, authorities and strategic partners.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Hospitality, Finance or related field; MBA preferred.
• Minimum 15 years of F&B/hospitality experience, including 8+ years in a senior executive/group leadership role.
• Proven experience scaling independent restaurant concepts across the UAE/GCC, including new openings, markets or franchises.
• Strong knowledge of casual and premium‑casual dining, with a passion for Japanese/Asian cuisine and culture.
• Excellent commercial and financial acumen, including P&L, budgeting, unit economics, feasibility and negotiations.
• Strong understanding of the UAE market, regulations, landlords and hospitality sector.
• Strategic, entrepreneurial and execution‑focused leader with strong communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Tech‑ and data‑savvy, with high integrity, professionalism and willingness to travel as required.