مارك برهام

Led the full establishment of Amwaj KSA, a large-scale catering company, overseeing every stage of set-up and growth. Responsible for creating the head office, building the leadership team, and setting out the long-term strategy, goals, and operational framework. Directed the development of a state-of-the-art production facility and structured all supporting functions to position the business for sustainable success in the Saudi market.

Highlights:

- Established the company’s head office and built the core management and operational teams
- Defined business strategy, goals, and financial plans to drive scalable growth
- Oversaw the design and launch of a large-scale catering production facility
- Implemented operational systems, policies, and controls across the business
- Represented the company as business head, accountable for delivery, performance, and growthLed the full establishment of Amwaj KSA, a large-scale catering company, overseeing every stage of set-up and growth. Responsible for creating the head office, building the leadership team, and setting out the long-term strategy, goals, and operational framework. Directed the development of a state-of-the-art production facility and structured all supporting functions to position the business for sustainable success in the Saudi market. Highlights: - Established the company’s head office and built the core management and operational teams - Defined business strategy, goals, and financial plans to drive scalable growth - Oversaw the design and launch of a large-scale catering production facility - Implemented operational systems, policies, and controls across the business - Represented the company as business head, accountable for delivery, performance, and growth

Skills: Project Management · Strategic Planning · Planning Budgeting & Forecasting · Leadership Development

As Group Director of Hospitality & Catering, I oversee the strategic set-up and operational management of multi-site hospitality and catering services across Riyadh, KSA. My role focuses on driving sustainable growth, a quality lead portfolio of brands with attention to detail. Creating quality lead products which are created with solid financial foundations to deliver service excellence, the right customer experience & our brand’s values and high standards.
Key Responsibilities:
• Lead and manage hospitality and catering teams across multiple locations.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance guest experience, streamline service delivery, and boost profitability
• Through executive leadership deliver business planning, budgeting, and growth initiatives
• Cultivate a high-performance culture through training, mentorship, and continuous development programs
• Manage key client relationships, contracts, and supplier partnerships to maintain service excellence and commercial success

Advisor to the BOD of Alshawaf Group (shawafintl.com) on their Food & Beverage strategy, projects & realignment of existing projects.

• Identifying new F&B projects to pursue.
• Managing new projects financial business plans.
• Rebranding of existing projects & redefining of all operational practices

Develop strategies and long-term plans in line with current market trends. Guide companies through growth, startup, and realignment phases with a focus on sustainable, quantifiable outcomes. Advised on budgeting, cost control measures, pricing strategies, and revenue management techniques to maximise profitability.
● Identified and resolved operational issues in culinary operations for a 5-star hotel to improve service quality.
● Drove revenue growth by devising and executing strategic plans and enhancing guest experience.

Led comprehensive restructuring of existing business operations and applied sound business practices for financial integrity. Crafted and introduced new in-house concepts to optimise use of premises and raise return on investment. Orchestrated integration of internationally recognised franchises in casual and fine dining sectors, with a special emphasis on premium brands.
● Minimised employee costs by realising strategy and centralising services.
● Reduced 8% of labour costs by improving operational and financial efficiency.
● Achieved a 12% increase in top-line revenue through increased marketing activity, strategic growth initiatives and business development.
● Enhanced financial performance from significant losses to achieving break-even point by leveraging strategic market insights.
● Positioned the company for regional expansion by transitioning from a local presence in Jeddah, KSA.

Shaped strategic growth plans for EMA Global to expand Fuddruckers operations across KSA, UAE, and Egypt as well as Chilis in KSA. Collaborated with international Fuddruckers concessions to foster brand alignment and stimulate expansion.
● Decreased long-term losses and outstanding debts by steering business towards sustained profitability.
● Spearheaded operations for 38 outlets across KSA, Egypt, and UAE with total revenue of Riyals 320M.
● Revamped Fuddruckers to modernise brand image and offerings and regain market leadership across American casual dining sector.

Conducted comprehensive market analysis in Riyadh to identify optimal development opportunities and profit maximisation strategies. Leveraged in-house concepts and franchises to grow company's portfolio and drive innovation. Designed and incorporated long-term strategic plans to meet sustainable growth objectives.
● Positioned Athman Holding as a formidable player in Riyadh market through strategic brand development and management.
● Strategised direction for Athman Holding Food & Beverage division and groundwork for new concept launches and franchise integrations.

Completed cross-sector consultancy projects and delivered strategic plans, financial oversight, and business leadership within hospitality, cookware, and live poultry industries in India, Dubai, and Spain. Mentored management teams and fostered entrepreneurial approach to attain financial success and cost savings.
● Provided leadership and expert advice on financial management to contribute to clients' financial growth.
● Formed operational frameworks and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for new brands to ensure consistent service delivery from day one.

Directed strategic initiatives and operational enhancements within diverse corporate environment to exceed set business objectives. Identified potential risks and crafted mitigation strategies to safeguard company’s interests. Monitored key performance indicators to track success of strategic initiatives and adjust data-driven decisions.
● Led $25M business expansion initiative aimed at demonstrating company's capacity for growth and scalability.
● Established company from ground up by executing long-term strategy, investment planning, and comprehensive P&L management initiatives.
● Created and launched premium and fine dining brands, alongside family entertainment centres and an American-style cinema/bowling concept franchise

Headed comprehensive operations for food and beverage departments and guaranteed alignment with corporate standards and financial goals. Coached cross-functional teams to promote a culture of leadership and professional growth.
● Exhibited an entrepreneurial approach to business challenges by augmenting revenue and innovation.
● Created award-winning new brands and platform to drive culinary excellence.
● Managed Guy Savoy, one of the world's most renowned 3-star Michelin chefs from Paris.

1 Star Michelin & 3 AA Rosettes

1 Star Michelin & 3 AA Rosettes