Country Manager – Portugal

About the role

We are looking for an experienced, results‑driven Country Manager to lead Zahir Kebab’s operations in Portugal. You will be responsible for delivering sustainable growth, profitability and operational excellence across all restaurant locations while building high‑performing teams.

Key responsibilities

• Lead overall business operations of Zahir Kebab in Portugal.
• Deliver sales growth, profitability and operational excellence across all sites.
• Develop and execute the annual business plan and country strategy aligned with Group objectives.
• Assume full P&L responsibility for the Portugal business.
• Monitor financial performance and implement corrective actions to meet revenue, profit and cost targets.
• Identify and drive expansion opportunities through franchising and new restaurant openings.
• Ensure consistent implementation of company operating standards, food quality, safety, hygiene and brand presentation.
• Lead, coach and develop Regional Managers, Restaurant Managers and support teams.
• Oversee recruitment, employee engagement, succession planning and leadership development.
• Ensure compliance with Portuguese labour legislation, food safety regulations, tax requirements and all applicable laws.
• Manage supplier relationships, inventory, purchasing, food and labour costs.
• Collaborate with Finance on budgets, cash flow and financial reporting.
• Analyse operational and financial KPIs and drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Represent the company with landlords, authorities, suppliers, franchise partners and other strategic stakeholders.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, Operations Management or a related discipline.
• MBA or postgraduate qualification (preferred).
• Minimum 5 years of senior management experience in restaurant, fast‑food, hospitality or multi‑site retail.
• Proven track record of managing multi‑site operations, P&L responsibility and delivering growth.

Required skills