Skills
Websites
Summary
Work History
Education
Certification
Languages & Technical Skills
Signature Concepts & Projects
Key Achievements
Generic

Nasser Darwish

Riyadh

Skills

  • Operational Leadership & Multi-Unit Management
  • Franchise Development & Expansion
  • P&L Accountability & Financial Optimization
  • Strategic Planning & Market Entry
  • Cost Control & Procurement Systems
  • HR Structuring & Team Development
  • Brand Building & Concept Creation
  • AI-Enabled Workflow Design
  • Languages: Arabic (Native), English (Fluent)
  • Technical Tools: Microsoft Office Suite, POS & Inventory Systems, ERP & HRIS Platforms, CRM Systems, Menu Engineering Software, Project Management Tools

Summary

Seasoned executive with 20+ years of experience driving operational excellence, profitability, and sustainable growth across the Middle East, GCC, and international markets. Proven record of scaling multi-unit operations, leading franchise development, and delivering complex transformations in hospitality, retail, and F&B. Adept at aligning operational strategy with corporate vision, building high-performing teams, and embedding cost control systems that protect margins and accelerate growth. Inspired by Danone’s mission of bringing health through food, committed to leveraging hands-on leadership and data-driven decision making to elevate performance across the MENA region.

Work History

Chief Executive Officer

Modern Food Service (Bagit)
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
01.2023 - Current
  • Executive leadership: Directed overall company vision, strategy, and operations across multiple markets (Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and Australia).
  • Business growth: Spearheaded expansion initiatives, secured investor partnerships, and developed scalable franchise models for F&B, and retail ventures.
  • Strategic planning: Designed long-term business strategies, financial models, and feasibility studies to ensure sustainable growth and profitability.
  • Operational excellence: Oversaw multi-branch operations, implemented cost-control systems, and optimized supply chain management.
  • Brand development: Led the creation of branded concepts, operational manuals, and franchising modules to strengthen market positioning.
  • Stakeholder management: Acted as the primary liaison with investors, partners, and government entities to align business objectives and secure approvals.
  • Talent development: Built HR frameworks, recruited senior leadership teams, and mentored managers to drive organizational performance.
  • Innovation and transformation: Integrated digital solutions, AI workflows, and ERP systems to modernize reporting and enhance decision-making.

Key Achievements

  • Founded and scaled Leaders Plus Consultancy into a recognized multi-market operator in the GCC and Australia.
  • Expanded portfolio with successful launches of F&B and retail concepts, achieving strong market penetration.
  • Reduced operational costs by up to 20% through supplier negotiations and system optimization.
  • Secured long-term contracts and investor partnerships, positioning the company as a trusted development partner.
  • Developed franchise frameworks adopted by multiple ventures, enabling regional and international scalability.
  • Established a reputation as a strategic architect and trusted advisor for hospitality and retail development.

Founder & General Manager

Leaders Plus Consultancy
Bahrain
01.2017 - 12.2022
  • Business ownership: Established and managed Leaders Plus Consultancy, overseeing all aspects of company operations and growth.
  • Strategic leadership: Defined vision, mission, and long-term strategy, ensuring alignment with market trends and investor expectations.
  • Concept creation and development: Directed end-to-end design of food and beverage and retail concepts, including idea generation, interior design, kitchen layout, branding, recruitment, and training.
  • Operational management: Supervised multi-branch operations across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and Australia, ensuring compliance with international standards.
  • Financial oversight: Built feasibility studies, business plans, and cost-control frameworks to drive profitability and sustainability.
  • Franchise expansion: Developed franchising modules, operational manuals, and growth strategies to scale concepts regionally and internationally.
  • Human capital development: Structured HR systems, recruited senior teams, and mentored managers to elevate organizational performance.
  • Stakeholder relations: Negotiated supplier contracts, secured investor partnerships, and maintained strong relationships with government and regulatory bodies.
  • Innovation and transformation: Integrated AI workflows, ERP systems, and digital dashboards to modernize operations and enhance decision-making.

Key Achievements

  • Founded and scaled Leaders Plus Consultancy into a recognized multi-market operator in the GCC and Australia.
  • Launched and managed multiple F&B and retail concepts, achieving strong market penetration and brand recognition.
  • Reduced operational costs by up to 20% through supplier negotiations and system optimization.
  • Expanded franchise networks with successful regional rollouts, and investor partnerships.
  • Developed branded frameworks, including operational manuals and franchising modules, adopted by multiple ventures.
  • Positioned the company as a trusted partner for hospitality and retail development, securing long-term contracts and repeat business.

Concept Manager

Legacy Dining for Restaurant Management
Bahrain
12.2016 - 12.2017
  • Concept development: Managed end-to-end creation of F&B and retail concepts, including idea generation, interior design, kitchen layout, branding, recruitment, and training.
  • Operational management: Oversaw daily operations and ensured the smooth execution of projects across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and Australia.
  • Strategic planning: Supported feasibility studies, business models, and financial frameworks to ensure profitability and scalability.
  • Franchise support: Assisted in building franchising modules, operational manuals, and expansion strategies for regional and international growth.
  • Cost optimization: Coordinated supplier negotiations, streamlined purchasing systems, and implemented cost-control measures.
  • HR & Training: Helped structure HR systems, onboard staff, and deliver training programs to strengthen workforce capability.
  • Stakeholder collaboration: Worked closely with senior leadership, investors, and partners to align project goals with the company vision.
  • Innovation: Contributed to digital transformation initiatives, including ERP integration and AI-enabled workflows.

Key Achievements

  • Delivered multiple F&B and retail concepts from idea to launch, achieving strong market penetration.
  • Reduced operational costs by up to 20% through supplier negotiations and system optimization.
  • Supported franchise expansion with successful rollouts across the GCC and Australia.
  • Developed branded frameworks, including operational manuals and franchising modules, adopted by multiple ventures.
  • Recognized as a key contributor to the company's growth and reputation in hospitality and retail development.

Managing Partner & Development Manager (Founder)

Crepe n Dip
Bahrain
03.2015 - 11.2016
  • Operational leadership: Directed daily operations and multi-branch management across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and Australia.
  • Concept development: Managed end-to-end creation of F&B and retail concepts, including idea generation, interior design, kitchen layout, branding, recruitment, and training.
  • Strategic growth: Designed business models, feasibility studies, and financial frameworks to support sustainable expansion.
  • Franchise development: Built franchising modules, operational manuals, and expansion strategies to scale concepts regionally and internationally.
  • Cost optimization: Negotiated supplier contracts, streamlined purchasing systems, and implemented cost-control measures to improve profitability.
  • HR structuring: Established organizational frameworks, training programs, and performance management systems to strengthen workforce capability.
  • Stakeholder management: Collaborated with investors, partners, and government entities to align business objectives, and secure approvals.
  • Innovation and transformation: Supported digital transformation initiatives, including ERP integration and AI-enabled workflows.

Key Achievements

  • Delivered multiple F&B and retail concepts from idea to launch, achieving strong market penetration.
  • Reduced operational costs by up to 20% through supplier negotiations and system optimization.
  • Expanded franchise networks with successful rollouts across the GCC and Australia.
  • Developed branded frameworks, including operational manuals and franchising modules, adopted by multiple ventures.
  • Recognized as a key driver of company growth and reputation in hospitality and retail development.

Director of Operations / Assistant GM (Founder)

SAFCO Group – LavaBurger
Bahrain
08.2014 - 03.2015
  • Operational leadership: Directed daily operations across multiple branches in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and Australia, ensuring compliance with company standards and local regulations.
  • Concept development: Supported the creation and rollout of F&B and retail concepts, including idea generation, interior design, kitchen layout, branding, recruitment, and training.
  • Strategic planning: Assisted in building business models, feasibility studies, and financial frameworks to drive profitability and scalability.
  • Franchise support: Contributed to the development of franchising modules, operational manuals, and expansion strategies for regional and international growth.
  • Cost optimization: Coordinated supplier negotiations, streamlined purchasing systems, and implemented cost-control measures to improve margins.
  • HR & Training: Helped structure HR systems, onboard staff, and deliver training programs to strengthen workforce capability.
  • Stakeholder collaboration: Worked closely with senior leadership, investors, and partners to align operational goals with the company vision.
  • Innovation: Supported digital transformation initiatives, including ERP integration and AI-enabled workflows.

Key Achievements

  • Delivered multiple F&B and retail concepts from idea to launch, achieving strong market penetration.
  • Reduced operational costs by up to 20% through supplier negotiations and system optimization.
  • Supported franchise expansion with successful rollouts across the GCC and Australia.
  • Developed branded frameworks, including operational manuals and franchising modules, adopted by multiple ventures.
  • Recognized as a key contributor to the company's growth and reputation in hospitality and retail development.

Director of Operations (Acting GM)

Gulf Gourmet Group
Bahrain & Saudi Arabia
07.2012 - 08.2014
  • Operational leadership: Directed day-to-day operations across multiple branches in Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and Australia, ensuring compliance with company standards and local regulations.
  • Acting GM duties: Oversaw general management functions, including staffing, budgeting, and performance monitoring during transitional leadership periods.
  • Concept development: Supported the creation and rollout of F&B and retail concepts, including idea generation, interior design, kitchen layout, branding, recruitment, and training.
  • Strategic planning: Assisted in building business models, feasibility studies, and financial frameworks to drive profitability and scalability.
  • Franchise support: Contributed to the development of franchising modules, operational manuals, and expansion strategies for regional and international growth.
  • Cost optimization: Negotiated supplier contracts, streamlined purchasing systems, and implemented cost-control measures to improve margins.
  • HR & Training: Helped structure HR systems, onboard staff, and deliver training programs to strengthen workforce capability.
  • Stakeholder collaboration: Worked closely with senior leadership, investors, and partners to align operational goals with the company vision.
  • Innovation: Supported digital transformation initiatives, including ERP integration and AI-enabled workflows.

Key Achievements

  • Delivered multiple F&B and retail concepts from idea to launch, achieving strong market penetration.
  • Reduced operational costs by up to 20% through supplier negotiations and system optimization.
  • Supported franchise expansion with successful rollouts across the GCC and Australia.
  • Developed branded frameworks, including operational manuals and franchising modules, adopted by multiple ventures.
  • Recognized as a key contributor to the company's growth and reputation in hospitality and retail development.

Freelance Operations Consultant

Tom Tom Restaurant
Saudi Arabia
02.2010 - 06.2012
  • Operational consulting: Provided advisory services to hospitality, retail, and wellness ventures on restructuring, efficiency improvement, and market expansion.
  • Process optimization: Designed and implemented cost-control systems, purchasing frameworks, and workflow enhancements to improve profitability.
  • Concept development: Supported clients in creating new F&B and retail concepts, including branding, layout design, recruitment, and training.
  • Strategic planning: Delivered feasibility studies, business plans, and financial models to guide investment decisions and growth strategies.
  • Franchise advisory: Developed franchising modules, operational manuals, and expansion strategies for regional and international scalability.
  • HR structuring: Assisted in building organizational frameworks, training programs, and performance management systems.
  • Stakeholder engagement: Collaborated with investors, executives, and partners to align operational goals with the strategic vision.
  • Digital transformation: Integrated ERP solutions, AI workflows, and data-driven dashboards to modernize reporting and decision-making.

Key Achievements

  • Delivered successful restructuring projects that improved efficiency and reduced costs by up to 20%.
  • Guided franchise expansion across the GCC and Australia, enabling sustainable growth and investor confidence.
  • Launched multiple F&B and retail concepts from idea to execution, achieving strong market penetration.
  • Developed branded operational frameworks, adopted by clients, for long-term scalability.
  • Recognized as a trusted advisor to CEOs and investors for operational excellence and strategic growth.

Group Director of Operations

London Business Group
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
11.2009 - 07.2010
  • Increased annual sales from SAR 14.5M to SAR 21.5M, delivering a 43% revenue growth across 18 outlets.
  • Strengthened brand presence by renovating five outlets and opening three new stores, boosting customer loyalty, and market visibility.
  • Reduced the cost of sales by 4% through procurement optimization, supplier negotiations, and the implementation of cost-control systems.
  • Standardized operations by developing SOPs, training manuals, and franchise support systems, ensuring consistency across all branches.
  • Led and mentored leadership teams, including three Area Managers and divisional heads, maintaining brand standards, compliance, and operational excellence.

Core Responsibilities

  • Directed multi-branch operations across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and Australia.
  • Oversaw financial planning, cost optimization, and performance monitoring to maximize profitability.
  • Managed concept development, franchise expansion, and operational restructuring initiatives.
  • Collaborated with investors, partners, and government entities to align strategy and secure approvals.
  • Supported digital transformation through ERP integration and AI-enabled workflows.

Executive Director of Operations

Mishwar Group
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
03.2005 - 10.2009
  • Executive leadership: Directed group-wide operations, overseeing 18+ outlets, and ensuring compliance with brand standards and regional regulations.
  • Revenue management: Oversaw annual sales operations valued at SAR 65M, driving profitability, and sustainable growth.
  • Strategic expansion: Led the renovation of existing outlets and opened new stores to strengthen brand presence and customer loyalty.
  • Operational excellence: Implemented procurement optimization, cost-control systems, and workflow improvements to enhance efficiency.
  • Team leadership: Managed area managers and divisional heads, mentoring leadership teams to maintain performance and compliance.
  • Standardization: Developed SOPs, training manuals, and franchise support systems to ensure operational consistency across all branches.
  • Stakeholder collaboration: Partnered with executives, investors, and suppliers to align operational goals with the strategic vision.

Key Achievements

  • Increased annual sales by 23%, growing revenue from SAR 52.8M to SAR 65M across all outlets.
  • Strengthened brand presence by renovating five outlets and opening three new stores, boosting customer loyalty, and market visibility.
  • Reduced the cost of sales by 4% through procurement optimization and supplier negotiations.
  • Built operational frameworks, including SOPs and franchise systems, adopted across the group.
  • Recognized as a key driver of Mishwar Group’s growth and operational excellence in the Saudi market.

International Consultant & Development Manager

Al Durrah Co. – Cambolero Concept
Jordan
05.2003 - 02.2005
  • Strategic consulting: Delivered operational restructuring, market entry strategies, and franchise expansion plans for hospitality, retail, and wellness ventures.
  • Business development: Designed and executed growth roadmaps, negotiated supplier contracts, and optimized procurement systems to reduce costs, and improve margins.
  • Concept creation: Led end-to-end development of F&B and retail concepts, including idea generation, interior design, kitchen layout, branding, recruitment, and training.
  • Operational leadership: Directed multi-branch operations across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and Australia, ensuring compliance with international standards and local regulations.
  • Financial modeling: Built business plans, feasibility studies, and cost-control frameworks that improved profitability and investor confidence.
  • Team mentorship: Structured HR systems, developed training manuals, and coached management teams to elevate performance and retention.
  • Digital transformation: Integrated ERP solutions, AI workflows, and data-driven dashboards to streamline reporting and enhance decision-making.

Key Achievements

  • Launched and scaled multiple F&B and retail concepts, achieving sustainable growth in competitive markets.
  • Reduced operational costs by up to 20% through supplier negotiations and system optimization.
  • Expanded franchise networks across the GCC and Australia, securing long-term partnerships, and investor buy-in.
  • Developed branded frameworks, including franchising modules, operational manuals, and cost-control systems, adopted by multiple ventures.
  • Positioned as a trusted advisor to CEOs and investors, providing executive-level guidance on scaling, restructuring, and market penetration.
  • Cambolero Concept (Amman, Jordan): Achieved 65,000 JD in opening sales, then stabilized daily sales at 16,000 JD, translating to 480,000 JD in monthly revenue, establishing a strong market entry and sustained performance.

Founder & Operations Development Manager

Shawarmer
Saudi Arabia
06.1999 - 04.2003
  • Operations leadership: Directed daily operations and multi-branch management, ensuring compliance with brand standards and regional regulations.
  • Concept development: Supported the creation and rollout of Shawarmer outlets, including menu design, kitchen layout, branding, recruitment, and training.
  • Strategic planning: Assisted in building business models, feasibility studies, and financial frameworks to drive profitability and scalability.
  • Franchise support: Contributed to the development of franchising modules, operational manuals, and expansion strategies for regional growth.
  • Cost optimization: Coordinated supplier negotiations, streamlined purchasing systems, and implemented cost-control measures to improve margins.
  • HR & Training: Helped structure HR systems, onboard staff, and deliver training programs to strengthen workforce capability.
  • Stakeholder collaboration: Worked closely with senior leadership, investors, and partners to align operational goals with the company vision.
  • Innovation: Supported digital transformation initiatives, including ERP integration and workflow automation.

Key Achievements

  • Expanded Shawarmer’s footprint by opening new outlets and strengthening brand presence in Saudi Arabia.
  • Increased sales performance through operational efficiency and customer-focused initiatives.
  • Reduced operational costs by optimizing procurement and implementing cost-control systems.
  • Developed SOPs and training manuals to ensure operational consistency across all branches.
  • Recognized as a key driver of Shawarmer’s growth and operational excellence in the Saudi market.

Operations Manager / Assistant GM

Falcon / Popeye’s
Lebanon
01.1994 - 01.1999
  • Oversaw multi-unit operations, ensuring compliance and profitability.
  • Implemented training and operational systems to support brand standards.

Area Manager

Al Dewan Restaurant
Lebanon
01.1993 - 01.1994
  • Directed daily operations, staff management, and customer service excellence.

Store Manager

Pizza Hut (Al Humidee)
Kuwait
01.1986 - 01.1993
  • Managed store operations, staff training, and customer satisfaction.
  • Delivered consistent sales growth and operational efficiency.

Education

Diploma - Hotel Management

Alexandria Hotel Institute
Egypt
01-1993

Certification

  • Operation Management Training (O.M.T.) – USA
  • Basic Management Training (B.M.T.) – Kuwait
  • Operation Management Course (O.M.C.) – Saudi Arabia
  • Legal & Administrative Business Training – EJADA, Jordan
  • Intensive IT & Business Tools Course – Lebanon

Languages & Technical Skills

Languages: Arabic (Native), English (Fluent)

Signature Concepts & Projects

Nutro Fit (Saudi Arabia, 2025–present) Designed a modular healthy kitchen and wellness platform, integrating menu innovation, retail, and lifestyle services. Positioned as a scalable model for health-focused F&B expansion in the GCC., Fit Break (Bahrain & Saudi Arabia) Transformed from Bagit into a hybrid wellness kitchen and retail concept. Built operational clarity, strong brand identity, and scalable backend systems for regional rollout., Cambolero (Jordan) Created a Latin-inspired chicken QSR concept with full operational manuals, franchising modules, and investor-ready frameworks. Established a scalable model for regional adaptation., Shawarmer (Saudi Arabia) Founded and scaled to 17 locations nationwide, building central kitchen, menu, branding, and franchise systems. Trained 25 managers and implemented cost-saving operational oversight., LavaBurger (Bahrain) Premium burger concept with full operational systems. Achieved 25% profit increase after controllables and 3% sales growth. Developed manuals, HR systems, and franchise readiness., Wrap & Dip (Bahrain & Australia) Fast-casual wrap concept with regional rollout. Designed menu, branding, and backend systems for scalability., Bona Banan (Saudi Arabia) Wellness café and fine dining fusion. Built central kitchen, menu innovation, and operational systems to support premium positioning., Nitro Nice Cream (Bahrain) Liquid nitrogen dessert concept. Developed branding, menu, and operational systems to deliver unique customer experiences., Lifestyle Ventures (Saudi Arabia & Bahrain) Bahja, Pasta House, Guys & Grills, Mustach Salon, Nojo Lady Salon — diverse F&B and lifestyle concepts with full branding, HR, and operational systems, showcasing versatility in cross-sector innovation.

Key Achievements

  • Directed multi-market operations across Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and Australia, achieving double-digit growth while ensuring operational consistency and compliance.
  • Founded and scaled Leaders Plus Consultancy, delivering end-to-end concept creation (branding, kitchen layout, HR structuring, franchising modules, financial planning) for F&B and retail ventures across the GCC.
  • Negotiated supplier contracts and optimized purchasing systems, reducing costs by up to 20% and strengthening supply chain resilience.
  • Built HR structures and training programs that improved retention rates and enhanced workforce productivity across multiple branches.
  • Developed and scaled Fit Break, transforming it into a recognized brand with operational clarity, strong identity, and sustainable growth.
  • Integrated AI workflow design and prompt engineering into consulting practices, enabling smarter decision-making and operational efficiency.
  • Delivered strategic consulting for operational restructuring, helping businesses expand into new markets while maintaining profitability and brand integrity.
Nasser Darwish