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

Black Pearl Consult; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A growing QSR group in the UAE is seeking an experienced Operations & Compliance Manager. You will oversee the setup and regulation of multi-location QSR operations with a focus on compliance, supply chain, and operational excellence. Candidates should have 8 to 10 years of F&B operations experience, particularly in QSR cloud kitchens or FMCG, and possess a strong understanding of UAE/GCC regulations. This role is ideal for highly organized, hands-on individuals with a knack for managing multiple projects.

Qualifications

• 8 to 10 years of experience in F&B operations, preferably in QSR cloud kitchens.
• Strong understanding of UAE/GCC municipality and food safety regulations.
• Proven experience in location selection and pre-opening operations.

Responsibilities

• Manage all regulatory requirements for QSR cloud kitchen setups.
• Identify potential sites for cloud kitchens based on various factors.
• Drive the setup and integration of central kitchen workflows.

Skills

F&B operations experience

Understanding of UAE/GCC regulations

Location selection and lease negotiation

Supply chain management

Project management

Job description

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.

Requirements

• 8 to 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 licence preferred.

Disclaimer: Black Pearl will never ask for money or any form to charge our candidates just to process or consider their application for any of our available vacancies. If you happen to receive such a request from any members of our staff or other individuals claiming to be part of Black Pearl please do call our office or drop us a message on our website.