Vinoth Kumar Dhanapal
Lusaka
Summary
Dynamic General Manager with a proven track record at Fortune Chickens Ltd - Nando's Zambia, driving double-digit growth through strategic planning and operational excellence. Expert in P&L management and team leadership, During my tenure we expanded our restaurant count in Zambia from 6 to 17 in 4yrs, I implemented cost control measures and sustainability initiatives, enhancing service quality and financial stability while fostering a collaborative work environment.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
General Manager
Fortune Chickens Ltd - Nando's Zambia
09.2021 - Current
- Manage daily operations to ensure optimal efficiency and Guest satisfaction.
- Implemented Stringent Supply chain & Cost control Measures, reducing operational expenses while maintaining Exceptional service quality.
- Developed and executed staff training programs to enhance team performance and engagement.
- Evaluated operational procedures, driving continuous improvement initiatives that enhanced service delivery standards.
- Managed budget implementations, employee reviews, training, schedules, and contract negotiations.
- Monitored financial performance, set budgets and controlled expenses to provide financial stability and long-term organizational growth.
- Drove year-over-year business growth by double digit while leading operations, strategic vision, and long-range planning.
- Portfolio of Restaurants was more than doubled during my tenure Developed and executed strategic plans for business growth and expansion, resulting in increased market share.
- Implemented sustainability drive, reducing energy consumption and waste, and implementing eco-friendly practices.
Operations Manager
Fortune Chickens Ltd - Nando's Zambia
07.2018 - 09.2021
- Oversaw daily operations of Multiple restaurants, ensuring efficiency and adherence to brand policies.
- Developed and implemented process improvements to enhance workflow and increase operational efficiancy.
- Trained and mentored team members, fostering a collaborative work environment.
- Led hiring, onboarding and training of new hires to fulfill business requirements.
- Developed and maintained relationships with external vendors and suppliers.
- Updated and resolved incidents and managed accessorial charges objectively while maximizing profit.
- Managed purchasing, sales, marketing and customer account operations efficiently.
Patrao - Restaurant Manager
Fortune Chickens Ltd - Nando's Zambia
06.2017 - 07.2018
- Supervised daily restaurant operations to ensure compliance with Brand and health & safety regulations.
- Implemented staff training programs to enhance service quality and team performance.
- Led weekly staff meetings to communicate updates, expectations, and performance goals.
Patrao
Nando's India
10.2012 - 05.2017
Assistant Manager
Speciality Restaurants - Sigree
06.2007 - 09.2012
Education
MBA - Tourism And Hospitality Management
United Business School
Brussels01-2013
Skills
- Leadership and team building
- Operations management
- P&L management
- Project management
- Financial administration
- New business development
Accomplishments
Won a Prestigious Partner of the year award in 2024 from Nando's Partner Division
Timeline
General Manager
Fortune Chickens Ltd - Nando's Zambia
09.2021 - Current
Operations Manager
Fortune Chickens Ltd - Nando's Zambia
07.2018 - 09.2021
Patrao - Restaurant Manager
Fortune Chickens Ltd - Nando's Zambia
06.2017 - 07.2018
Patrao
Nando's India
10.2012 - 05.2017
Assistant Manager
Speciality Restaurants - Sigree
06.2007 - 09.2012
MBA - Tourism And Hospitality Management
United Business School