Nikesh Lamba

• Provided strategic leadership and oversight for a leading multi-brand restaurant company based in Chennai.
• Managed a diverse portfolio of over 20 award winning outlets across 5 cities in India.
• Directed efforts to drive business growth and expand market presence with a revenue run rate of over INR 700 million.
• Ensured operational efficiency and maintained high standards of quality and service, resulting in brands being regarded the best in their respective category in each city.
• Optimized financial performance through effective budgeting and resource allocation.
• Enhanced brand reputation and equity through strategic initiatives. Brands in the portfolio recognized amongst the 50 best restaurants in the country 3 years in a row
• Nurtured top talent and fostered a positive work culture within the organization. Leading a team of over 600 talented professionals
• Built and maintained strong relationships with key stakeholders, including investors and suppliers.

• Offered strategic advice to the founder to create regional indian quick service restaurant business operations and market positioning.
• Provided financial investment and support to facilitate expansion and development initiatives. Led a investment round with HNI investor
• Assisted in identifying growth opportunities and market trends to capitalize on.
• Supported in decision-making processes to optimize operational efficiency and profitability.
• Collaborated with key stakeholders to maintain positive relationships and foster business partnerships.
• Contributed to the overall strategic direction and long-term vision of the company.
• Played a vital role in ensuring the delivery of high-quality products and services to customers across the 15 outlets in Chennai, India.

As the Senior Merchandising Manager at Walmart India, I led the food and beverage category, the largest segment within the organization with a revenue exceeding INR 5000 million. Here's a concise summary of my responsibilities and achievements:

• Headed the strategic direction and execution of the food and beverage category for Walmart India.
• Managed all aspects of merchandising including assortment planning, vendor relationships, and pricing strategies.
• Led cross-functional teams to drive sales growth and profitability while ensuring alignment with company objectives.
• Developed and implemented innovative merchandising strategies to enhance the customer shopping experience and increase market share.
• Cultivated strong partnerships with suppliers and negotiated favorable terms to maximize margins and assortment breadth.
• Analyzed market trends, customer insights, and competitive landscape to identify opportunities for product differentiation and category expansion.
• Played a key role in driving revenue growth and achieving financial targets for the food and beverage category, contributing significantly to the overall success of Walmart India.

As the Food & Beverage Manager for Starwood Hotels (ITC Ltd), I oversaw the entire food and beverage department, ensuring exceptional dining experiences for guests. Notably, I achieved certification as the youngest Sommelier in the country at the age of 26 by the Wine and Spirit Education Trust, United Kingdom. Here's a summary of my role:

• Directed and managed the food and beverage operations at the hotel, ensuring high standards of service and guest satisfaction.
• Led a team of professionals in delivering exceptional dining experiences across multiple outlets within the hotel.
• Implemented innovative strategies to enhance the quality and variety of food and beverage offerings, catering to diverse guest preferences.
• Leveraged my expertise as a certified Sommelier to curate an outstanding wine program and elevate the overall dining experience.
• Fostered a culture of excellence and continuous improvement within the food and beverage department, resulting in increased revenue and guest loyalty.
• Collaborated with other departments to coordinate events, promotions, and special culinary experiences, contributing to the hotel's overall success and reputation.