From Football Fields to Restaurant Realms: Alaa Sayed’s Journey
Join Ashish Tulsian as he interviews Alaa Sayed on his podcast. Explore Alaa’s journey from a national footballer to influential roles at Shake Shack, BurgerFuel, and Jollibee, sharing lessons from his hospitality career centered on quality and innovation.
Alaa Sayed
General Manager, ALBAIK at ServQuest
Since December 2022, Alaa Sayed has been the General Manager of ALBAIK at ServQuest, overseeing the launch of 11 outlets in the UAE. With over two decades in hospitality, his prior roles include leadership positions at Hardee’s, Metro Market, Shake Shack, Burger Fuel, and Jollibee, enhancing his expertise in F&B operations and team leadership.
In this captivating podcast episode, join us on a journey through the diverse chapters of Alaa Sayed’s remarkable career, from the football fields of Egypt to the bustling kitchens of renowned global restaurants. Hosted by Ashish Tulsian, the interview unfolds Alaa’s inspiring story of resilience and adaptation, offering a rare glimpse into the dynamic world of hospitality.
Starting as a national football player, Alaa’s trajectory took an unexpected turn after an injury, propelling him into the realms of tourism, hotel management, and ultimately the restaurant business. Delve into Alaa’s experiences managing F&B in American Air Force bases, where he learned the art of adapting to diverse customer needs.
The narrative deepens with insights from Alaa’s tenure at Shake Shack, where a people-first philosophy and unique training approach set the stage for his subsequent ventures with BurgerFuel, Jollibee, and the latest chapter with ServQuest and Al-Baik. From challenges faced during the opening of Al-Baik’s first drive-through to strategic expansion plans, Alaa shares anecdotes and lessons that resonate with aspiring professionals in the industry.
Discover the secret ingredients behind Alaa’s success – a commitment to quality, customer service, and the delicate balance between tradition and technology. This episode offers a rich tapestry of experiences, emphasizing the importance of passion, adaptability, and meaningful connections in the ever-evolving landscape of the restaurant business.