Restaurant Manager

Darseen; Manchester; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 19,000; Full time

Job summary

Darseen, a premium Kuwaiti food brand based in the UK, is seeking a Head of Operations to oversee all operational aspects from pre-launch to daily running. You will build strong systems, drive efficiency, and deliver an exceptional customer experience across multi-site or single-site operations.

The role requires strategic leadership, supplier and HR oversight, and rigorous attention to UK employment law and safety.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in restaurant operations management.
• Strong leadership, organisational and communication skills.
• Experience in supplier management, recruitment and planning.
• Ability to build systems, processes and teams from ground up.
• Knowledge of UK hospitality regulations and compliance.

Responsibilities

• Oversee all operational activities ensuring efficiency, quality and compliance.
• Develop and improve operational systems, processes and procedures.
• Lead project timelines for restaurant setup, launch prep and expansion.
• Source, evaluate and negotiate with suppliers; manage relationships.
• Recruitment, onboarding, training and performance management for ops staff.
• Monitor KPIs like labour cost, food cost, customer satisfaction and productivity.

Skills

Leadership

Operations mgmt

Supplier management

Recruitment

Project planning

Team leadership

Job description

Position Overview

The Head of Operations is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing, managing, and optimising all operational aspects of the Company. This role ensures the smooth running of the business from pre‑launch through day‑to‑day operations, driving efficiency, consistency, and growth. The Head of Operations will work closely with the founders and management team to build strong operational foundations and deliver an exceptional customer experience.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Oversee all operational activities of the business, ensuring efficiency, quality, and compliance..
• Develop, implement, and continuously improve operational systems, processes, and procedures..
• Lead operational planning for business launch and ongoing growth..

Project & Launch Management

• Manage end‑to‑end project timelines for restaurant setup, launch preparation, and expansion activities..
• Coordinate with internal teams and external partners to ensure all operational milestones are achieved..

Supplier & Procurement Management

• Source, evaluate, and negotiate with suppliers for food, equipment, and services..
• Build strong supplier relationships and ensure consistent supply chain performance..
• Monitor cost control, quality standards, and delivery reliability..

Staffing & HR Operations

• Lead recruitment for all operational roles, including kitchen, front‑of‑house, and support staff..
• Oversee staff onboarding, training, scheduling, and performance management..
• Ensure compliance with UK employment law, health & safety regulations, and company policies..

Daily Operational Management

• Manage day‑to‑day restaurant operations to ensure smooth service delivery..
• Monitor operational KPIs including labour cost, food cost, customer satisfaction, and productivity..
• Identify operational issues and implement effective solutions promptly..

Business Growth & Strategy

• Support strategic planning for future branches, catering services, or brand expansion..
• Analyse operational performance and recommend improvements to enhance profitability and efficiency..
• Undertake any additional reasonable duties required for the successful operation and growth of the Company..

Employment Terms (to be detailed in the employment contract)

• Working hours.
• Salary and benefits.
• Holiday entitlement.
• Notice period.
• Disciplinary and grievance procedures.
• Pension obligations.
• All other applicable employment terms in accordance with UK employment law.

Candidate Requirements

Essential

• Proven experience in restaurant operations management (multi‑site or single‑site)..
• Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills..
• Experience in supplier management, recruitment, and operational planning..
• Ability to build systems, processes, and teams from the ground up..
• Strong understanding of UK hospitality regulations and compliance..

Desirable

• Experience in Middle Eastern / Arabic cuisine or culturally‑specific restaurant operations..
• Pre‑opening or launch experience..
• Project management experience.

Experience: Not required
Employment: Full-time
Schedule: 6 days except friday
Salary: £12.75 – £14 hourly

About Darseen

A premium Kuwaiti food brand based in the UK, offering authentic Kuwaiti cuisine with a modern, elegant presentation. The brand embodies a luxurious, warm, and culturally rich identity, seamlessly blending traditional Gulf heritage with ref