Samir Elshahedy

Results-driven Multi-Unit Operations Manager and Area Manager with 14+ years of progressive experience in restaurant, café, resort, and hotel F&B operations across Saudi Arabia and Egypt. Proven track record founding and scaling F&B brands from concept to multi-branch expansion, leading teams of 230+ employees, and driving double-digit revenue growth through data-driven decision-making, P&L ownership, and operational excellence. Skilled in budget management, food cost control, SOP development, delivery-platform partnerships, franchise readiness, and AI-enabled operational analysis.

Recognized for building high-performing teams, strengthening brand identity, and consistently exceeding sales, quality, and guest-satisfaction targets in fast-paced, multi-location environments.

Operations & Brand Director - Dunya Al-Bukhari Restaurant - Riyadh, KSA

(2025-01)

• Founded and scaled a new restaurant brand from the ground up, leading full menu development, pricing strategy, and concept establishment to drive market entry and revenue growth.
• Negotiated and managed delivery-platform partnerships (Talabat, HungerStation, Jahez) to maximize digital reach, order volume, and incremental revenue.
• Conducted comprehensive food cost analysis and pricing calculations, safeguarding profitability while maintaining quality and brand standards.
• Protected and strengthened brand identity and customer experience consistency across all operational touchpoints.
• Leveraged AI-driven analysis tools to optimize operations, identify performance trends, and support data-driven decision-making.
• Authored and rolled out end-to-end Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across all departments, improving consistency and operational efficiency.
• Led, recruited, and developed a workforce of 230+ employees, overseeing training, performance management, and succession planning.
• Designed and executed a multi-branch Express expansion strategy, successfully launching the first Express location with further sites in the pipeline.
• Leading brand trademark registration in preparation for franchise sales and long-term brand licensing strategy.

Area Manager - Hospitality Makers - Riyadh, KSA

(2023-08 - 2025-01)

• Directed daily multi-branch operations, ensuring full compliance with quality, safety, and efficiency standards across the network.
• Led branch managers and frontline teams to exceed sales targets, driving a 20% increase in overall profitability.
• Developed and implemented strategic initiatives that improved customer satisfaction ratings by 15%.
• Monitored and analyzed branch-level KPIs to identify performance gaps and implement corrective action plans.
• Reduced operating costs by 10% through process optimization and cost-control measures, without compromising service quality.
• Delivered ongoing coaching and training programs that improved staff performance and team engagement.

Area Manager - Archi Café - Riyadh, KSA

(2022-05 - 2023-05)

• Directed multi-branch operations across 4 branches in Riyadh, ensuring adherence to brand and quality standards.
• Recruited, trained, and supervised branch managers and customer-focused, high-performing teams across all locations.
• Increased revenue across branches by designing and executing targeted sales and marketing strategies.
• Maintained high customer satisfaction across the network through proactive feedback management and service-quality controls.
• Oversaw inventory and supply chain processes across branches, minimizing waste and reducing costs.
• Conducted regular performance evaluations and coaching sessions to enhance team efficiency.

Operations Manager - Grand Silverton Hotel - Khobar, KSA

(2019-04 - 2023-04)

• Directed daily hotel operations across departments, ensuring seamless coordination and consistently high service standards.
• Led and mentored a team of 86+ staff, strengthening efficiency and overall performance.
• Owned budgeting and financial performance, achieving a 15% reduction in operational costs while increasing profitability.
• Designed guest-satisfaction initiatives that drove a 7.5% increase in positive reviews and feedback.
• Supervised implementation of health and safety protocols, ensuring full regulatory compliance.
• Partnered with marketing and sales teams on promotional campaigns that boosted occupancy rates and revenue.

Front Office Manager - Grand Silverton Hotel - Khobar, KSA

(2017-06 - 2019-04)

• Led the front office team to deliver exceptional guest experiences and efficient check-in/check-out processes.
• Managed daily front-desk operations, reservations, and guest inquiries, achieving a 10% increase in guest satisfaction.
• Trained and supervised front office staff to uphold service quality and professionalism.
• Optimized room availability, occupancy, and pricing strategies to maximize revenue.
• Resolved guest concerns promptly, sustaining high customer loyalty and retention.
• Ensured compliance with hotel policies and local regulations across daily operations.
• Coordinated cross-departmentally with housekeeping and maintenance to meet guest needs effectively.

F&B Manager - Laguna Vista Resort - Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt

(2014 - 2017)

• Managed F&B operations across a multi-outlet resort, overseeing à la carte restaurants, buffet operations, and specialty dining outlets.
• Directed daily service standards, food quality, and guest experience across all outlets, including during peak season.
• Led buffet operations, including food presentation, portion control, replenishment planning, and adherence to hygiene and food-safety standards.
• Supervised the Italian and Turkish specialty restaurants, coordinating with chefs on menu execution, quality control, and guest experience.
• Recruited, trained, and scheduled F&B service staff across all outlets, driving performance development and service consistency.
• Managed F&B costs and waste control across outlets to meet departmental profitability targets.
• Coordinated with kitchen, stewarding, and purchasing departments to ensure smooth outlet operations and inventory availability.
• Handled guest feedback and service recovery across outlets, contributing to strong guest satisfaction scores.

Branch Manager - McDonald's - Egypt

(2012 - 2014)

• Managed full branch operations, ensuring adherence to global brand standards for food quality, safety, and service speed.
• Recruited, scheduled, and led restaurant crew and shift leaders, driving performance through training and coaching.
• Monitored daily sales, labor cost, and food cost targets, contributing to branch profitability.
• Ensured full compliance with health, safety, and hygiene regulations across all shifts.
• Handled customer service recovery and complaint resolution to protect brand reputation and guest satisfaction.
• Coordinated with area management on inventory ordering, waste control, and operational reporting.

Bachelor's Degree - Tourism and Archaeology - South Valley University (2012)