George Kunnappally named among Hozpitality's Best 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East for 2023
George Kunnappally, the Managing Director of Nando's, has been recognized as one of the Best 30 Hospitality and Tourism Leaders in the Middle East by Hozpitality Group.
Commencing his professional journey with Taj Hotels in India, George Kunnappally has ascended to senior management roles within major conglomerates based in Dubai, each with a significant footprint across the MENA region. He has held pivotal positions such as General Manager at Al Madani Group and General Manager and Board Member at BinHendi Enterprises, both in Dubai. Additionally, he served as a Senior Franchise Strategy & Business Development Specialist at ADNOC Distribution in Abu Dhabi.
Presently, George serves as the adept Managing Director of Nando's, headquartered in Dubai. His expertise has earned him recognition on the Caterer Middle East Power List for three consecutive years (2020, 2021, and 2022). With 25 years of experience in F&B franchise operations, management, and brand development, he has played instrumental roles in launching and nurturing renowned brands like Subway, Charley's Philly Steaks, Whittard of Chelsea, Bateaux Dubai, Second Cup Coffee, Johnny Rockets, and various indigenous concepts in the Middle East, Africa, and CIS regions.
In his recent role as Executive Director – Private Equity at Regulus Capital Limited, an Investment Manager registered in the Cayman Islands overseeing assets worth over USD 1.2 billion in F&B, healthcare, education, logistics, and real estate within the MENASEA region, George displayed remarkable leadership. He also served as the General Manager and board Member of Al Faris Restaurants LLC, the Exclusive Developer of Johnny Rockets Restaurants in the UAE, Oman, North & Sub-Saharan Africa, and Eastern Europe. His influence extended to serving on the Boards of Diamond Lifestyle Limited, Gulf Pinnacle Logistics Limited, Al Najah Education Limited, and Al Maha Infrastructure Limited.
George Kunnappally actively contributes to the industry's growth and development as a member of the advisory board of the UAE Superbrands Council, UAE Restaurants Group (under the auspices of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Industry), the Middle East Food Forum, and the Fast Food & Cafe Convention. He is a sought-after speaker at industry events, an author of opinion pieces for leading publications, and a staunch advocate for issues pertinent to the sector.
Armed with a degree in Hotel Management and a Master's in Tourism Management, George combines his academic prowess with his wealth of industry experience, making him a respected leader in the field.
Meela Seenarain
Dubai, United Arab Emirates UAE