Speakers

Naveed Dowlatshahi is a seasoned C-level leader with more than three decades of experience in hospitality, food and beverage, and entertainment across the Middle East and beyond. Currently serving as Chief Operating Officer at Gastronomica, he oversees the operations of more than 50 locations and 15 brands across the GCC. In this role, he is focused on optimizing day-to-day performance, refining business processes, and introducing innovative strategies that drive both immediate results and long-term sustainable growth. His leadership is defined by a commitment to operational excellence, customer experience, and building teams that thrive in dynamic markets.

Before joining Gastronomica, Naveed was Group CEO of JMJ Group Holding, where he transformed the organization into a corporate powerhouse, spearheaded the launch of new brands, and led IPO preparations. He also played a strategic role as Senior Advisor at VRTL, guiding digital transformation and profitability initiatives within the virtual delivery vertical of the F&B sector. From 2021 to 2023, he served as Group CEO of Aura Group in Qatar, overseeing more than 50 brands and 90 outlets, delivering landmark projects such as Al Maha Island in Lusail City, and launching 45 new outlets during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.

Naveed has also led GoFoodUAE, an innovative food delivery marketplace, and founded Kash Global Group, a consultancy supporting F\&B and retail operators across the Middle East, Asia and North Africa with expansion, franchising, and turnaround strategies. Earlier in his career, he held senior leadership roles with some of the region’s most prominent companies including Lulu Group International, Ilyas & Mustafa Galadari Group, Landmark Group, BinHendi Enterprises, Tatweer and Gourmet Gulf.

His career began in the UK, where he held various management positions before relocating to the Gulf in 2005. Educated in the UK and holding a Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administration from the University of Liverpool, Naveed brings a unique combination of strategic vision, operational expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit. He is recognized as a transformative leader who thrives on building businesses, driving growth, and creating meaningful impact across diverse industries.