Director of Food and Beverage & Culinary Pre Opening Ritz Carlton Diriyah

Director of Food & Beverage & Culinary – Pre-Opening

The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, * is seeking a Director of Food & Beverage & Culinary for a pre-opening project in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This full-time role is based in Ad Dir'iyah, Riyadh, and involves establishing the food and beverage operations for The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah, a new luxury hospitality destination.

Role Overview

As a member of the Executive Committee, the Director of Food & Beverage & Culinary will provide strategic leadership for all culinary and food and beverage operations. This includes restaurants, bars, banqueting, catering, and in-room dining. The position focuses on curating guest experiences, developing concepts, and building a team culture to position The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah as a culinary destination. The Director will work with the General Manager, ownership representatives, and the hotel leadership team to oversee the development and execution of a comprehensive food and beverage strategy. This role also involves establishing service standards, recruiting talent, and launching concepts during the pre-opening phase.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the pre-opening strategy, positioning, and operational launch of all food and beverage and culinary outlets.
• Develop and execute a food and beverage vision aligned with brand standards, guest expectations, and ownership objectives.
• Create dining and beverage experiences that differentiate the property within the luxury hospitality market.
• Drive revenue growth and profitability through strategic planning, menu development, outlet positioning, and operational excellence.
• Oversee departmental budgets, forecasting, procurement strategies, cost controls, and financial performance.
• Recruit, develop, and inspire a food and beverage and culinary team, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
• Cultivate relationships with ownership, stakeholders, suppliers, and industry partners.
• Champion service innovation, guest engagement, and continuous improvement across all food and beverage touchpoints.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Over 10 years of leadership experience within luxury hotels, resorts, or internationally recognized food and beverage destinations.
• Understanding of luxury dining trends, guest expectations, and market opportunities.
• Demonstrated success leading complex food and beverage operations with multiple outlets, large-scale events, and high-performing culinary teams.
• Strong financial and commercial acumen, with experience managing budgets, profitability, concept development, and revenue optimization.
• An inspirational leadership style that attracts, develops, and retains talent.
• A hands-on approach combined with strategic vision and the ability to influence stakeholders.
• Previous pre-opening experience within a luxury hospitality environment is valued.

Work Environment and Company Culture

The Ritz-Carlton Diriyah is set within the historic heart of Diriyah, Saudi Arabia. This pre-opening project offers an opportunity to establish a world-class food and beverage destination. The Ritz-Carlton, part of Marriott International, is recognized for its luxury service and "Gold Standards." The company is an equal opportunity employer, valuing diverse backgrounds and committed to non-discrimination.

Application Information

This role offers the opportunity to contribute to a landmark luxury destination. Candidates will join a global team within Marriott International and are expected to uphold the service values and standards of The Ritz-Carlton.