Pre-Opening Manager – QSR Operations

Black Pearl Consult; Abu Dhabi; On-site; AED 223,200 - 334,800; Full time

Job summary

Black Pearl Consult is seeking a Launch Specialist to lead pre-opening restaurant activities in Abu Dhabi. Ideal candidates will have a minimum of 8 years experience in QSR fast-casual operations and knowledge of UAE regulations.

This pivotal role offers autonomy to shape operational processes and support multi-site expansion strategies, requiring highly developed project management skills and a hands-on leadership approach.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in QSR fast-casual or multi-unit restaurant operations.
• Proven experience managing multiple pre-opening projects.
• Deep knowledge of UAE/Dubai market regulations and codes.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage pre-opening activities for restaurant outlets.
• Develop operational policies and checklists for openings.
• Coordinate with stakeholders to meet opening requirements.

Skills

QSR fast-casual operations

Project management

Communication skills

Organizational skills

Market knowledge of UAE

Tech-savvy

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage end‑to‑end pre‑opening activities for new restaurant outlets ensuring timely and successful launches.
• Develop and execute detailed opening plans, project timelines and operational readiness checklists.
• Coordinate with internal stakeholders (landlords, contractors, consultants and government authorities) to ensure all opening requirements are met.
• Oversee licensing, permits, approvals and regulatory compliance processes required for outlet openings.
• Manage vendor onboarding, supplier setup, equipment procurement and operational infrastructure readiness.
• Ensure all operational systems (POS platforms, delivery channels and technology solutions) are fully functional before launch.
• Coordinate recruitment activities, workforce planning, onboarding and training programs for new outlet teams.
• Develop, implement and standardise operational policies, procedures and SOPs to ensure consistency across locations.
• Collaborate with culinary and operations teams to ensure menu readiness, product availability, quality standards and inventory planning.
• Manage aggregator onboarding and setup including platforms such as Talabat, Deliveroo, Noon, Food Careem and other delivery channels.
• Conduct pre‑opening audits, operational testing and launch readiness assessments to identify and resolve potential issues.
• Monitor opening budgets, timelines, risks and project milestones while providing regular progress updates to senior management.

Requirements

• Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience strictly within QSR fast‑casual, cloud kitchen or multi‑unit restaurant operations.
• Proven verifiable experience managing multiple pre‑opening projects from planning through to successful commercial launch.
• Deep UAE/Dubai market experience is non‑negotiable; must possess current working knowledge of local municipality regulations, food safety codes and licensing workflows.
• Exceptional organisation skills with the ability to manage complex timelines and multiple site launches simultaneously.
• Highly articulate with the communication skills to manage landlords, contractors, government inspectors and executive leadership.
• A hands‑on leader who rolls up their sleeves during the high‑pressure days leading up to an opening.
• Prior experience scaling recognised regional or international QSR fast‑casual or cloud kitchen brands during rapid growth phases is highly desirable.
• Tech‑savvy profile with advanced understanding of modern kitchen logistics, POS systems and aggregator algorithms.
• Candidates must be currently based in the UAE and ready to attend interviews at short notice – immediate availability or short notice periods will be heavily prioritised.

Additional Information

This is a pivotal high‑impact role within a rapidly growing F&B business. For a launch specialist this position offers the autonomy to build operational ecosystems from the ground up, leave a tangible stamp on the region's food scene and directly fuel a brand's multi‑site expansion strategy.

Education

A bachelor's degree is preferred.