Operations & Compliance Lead – QSR Cloud Kitchens

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 ResponsibilitiesRegulatory Compliance & LicensingManage 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 ManagementIdentify 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 SetupDrive 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 DevelopmentIdentify 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 ExecutionManage 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.RequirementsTo be considered for this role, you need to meet the following criteria:8–10+ 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 license preferred.To view other requirements we have, please visit our website - www.blackpearlconsult.comTo view other vacancies we have,please check our website (www.blackpearlconsult.com) and follow us on our social media accounts -LinkedIn/Facebook / Twitter/ InstagramDisclaimer: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 request from any members of our staff or other individuals claiming to be part of Black Pearl, please do call our office at +9712 622 55 03 or drop us a message on our website.#J-18808-Ljbffr