Director of Operations

Director of Operations – Head OfficeAbout the RoleA leading premium hospitality group is seeking an experienced and highly organized Director of Operations to join its Head Office in Dubai. This confidential position will support senior management in overseeing the performance, processes and operational standards of a growing restaurant portfolio.Acting as a key link between senior management and the Operations Directors responsible for the group's venues, the successful candidate will consolidate and analyze business performance, coordinate reporting, monitor key objectives and ensure consistent follow-up on operational priorities. The role will also take ownership of developing, reviewing and implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), improving internal processes and ensuring alignment with company standards across all concepts.The ideal candidate combines a strong understanding of premium restaurant operations with excellent analytical, organizational and project management skills. This is a Head Office role focused on operational oversight, business performance, process improvement and supporting senior management, rather than the day-to-day management of individual venues.Key ResponsibilitiesAct as the key liaison between senior management and the Operations Directors overseeing the restaurant portfolio, ensuring clear communication, alignment and follow-up on business priorities.Consolidate, review and analyze operational and financial reports across the portfolio, providing senior management with a clear overview of business performance.Monitor key performance indicators, including revenue, profitability, food and beverage costs, labour costs, average spend, covers and budget performance.Prepare regular performance reports, management presentations and business updates, highlighting trends, variances, risks and areas requiring attention.Track performance against budgets, forecasts and business objectives, working with Operations Directors to understand variances and follow up on agreed action plans.Develop, review, standardize and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across relevant areas of the business to ensure consistency, efficiency and adherence to company standards.Review existing processes and identify opportunities to improve workflows, reporting structures, controls and overall business efficiency.Coordinate the implementation of new procedures, policies and operational initiatives across the portfolio, ensuring clear communication and appropriate follow-up.Maintain oversight of key projects and action points across the group's venues, tracking progress, deadlines and accountability with the relevant Operations Directors.Support budgeting, forecasting and business planning processes in collaboration with Finance and operational leadership.Develop and maintain reporting frameworks, dashboards, SOP libraries and performance-tracking tools to improve visibility and consistency across the portfolio.Prepare business analyses and recommendations to support senior management in identifying performance gaps, managing risks and making informed decisions.Support the development and refinement of internal policies, operational guidelines and management processes as the group continues to grow.RequirementsProven experience in a senior operations, business performance or operational excellence role within a multi-outlet restaurant group or premium hospitality business.Strong understanding of restaurant operations, including the financial, commercial and operational drivers of business performance.Experience in management reporting, KPI analysis, budgeting, forecasting and performance monitoring.Demonstrated experience in developing, documenting and implementing SOPs, policies and standardized business processes.Strong financial acumen and the ability to interpret P&L statements, identify variances and translate data into actionable recommendations.Advanced Excel skills and experience preparing reports, dashboards and management presentations; familiarity with business intelligence tools is an advantage.Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and ensure consistent follow-up.Strong stakeholder management and communication skills, with the confidence to work with senior management, Operations Directors and cross-functional teams.A structured, detail-oriented and proactive approach, with strong problem-solving skills and a focus on continuous improvement.Ability to work independently, take ownership of projects and bring structure to complex processes.Previous experience within a multi-venue restaurant group, luxury dining or high-volume hospitality environment is highly preferred.Confidentiality Notice: Further details about the group and opportunity will be shared with shortlisted candidates.