Taahir Shah

Mohammed Taahir Shah, Hospitality Manager Durban, 3629, South Africa, -,-SUMMARY Dynamic Hospitality Executive with over 20 years of experience leading multiple franchise brands in the food and beverage industry. Proven track record in enhancing operational efficiency by 15% and generating R40 million in annual revenue through successful market expansion initiatives. Established training programs that elevated customer service ratings and reduced staff turnover by 80%. Committed to fostering a positive work environment and maximizing business performance, aiming to contribute expertise and strategic vision to a forward-thinking hospitality organisation. WORK EXPERIENCE 04/2002 – Present Managing director / Ceo Franchise stores, Spur / Durban, South Africa Rocomamas / Nandos / Doppio Zero Implemented a comprehensive performance improvement plan, enhancing operational efficiency by 15% and realizing annual cost savings of R1 million. Spearheaded the successful 2022 market expansion initiative into three new brands, generating an additional R40 million in annual revenue within the first year of operation. Established and standardized training programs for staff across all locations, elevating customer service ratings and enhancing the overall dining experience, thereby encouraging repeat business. Devised and executed targeted marketing campaigns for each franchise, contributing to a 20% increase in foot traffic during promotional periods, directly boosting sales and customer engagement. Oversaw all facets of restaurant operations, including lease negotiations, hiring and training of staff, inventory management, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations. Cultivated a positive work environment through the implementation of employee recognition programs, achieving an 80% decrease in staff turnover. Optimized cost-saving measures, resulting in an annual reduction in food and beverage expenses. 09/2016 – Present Brand Developer / Johannesburg / Durban / Cape Town, South Africa Managing director / Ceo, Fitdeli Pty Ltd Conceptualized and developed the Fitdeli brand, including logo design, website, and e-commerce platform, establishing a robust online identity that enhanced customer interaction. Galvanized a culture of innovation by introducing weekly brainstorming sessions, which led to the development of new Fitdeli product lines aligned with customer demands. Created white label opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs, empowering them to expand their product offerings and enhance their market presence. Executed a comprehensive marketing strategy that markedly increased online presence, boosting customer engagement by 50% and significantly expanding the customer base, thus improving overall market reach. Oversaw the development and launch of a new product line, contributing to a 15% growth in market share and attracting a younger demographic, effectively future-proofing the brand. 04/2018 – Present Managing director, Saltwater Marketing Johannesburg, South Africa Pioneered a boutique social media marketing agency focused on innovative strategies for high-end media and influencers, successfully elevating both new brands and established businesses. Formulated and executed creative marketing campaigns that generated substantial buzz and engagement, driving brand awareness and increasing client visibility in competitive markets. Collaborated with clients to assess and restructure their existing business models, enabling them to achieve new heights of success while adapting to evolving market demands. EDUCATION 01/2004 – 12/2007 Varsity College / Unisa Durban, South Africa Bcom, Marketing Transitioned to a business operator role after the loss of a partner, which required quick adaptation and significant responsibility. 02/2025 – Present coursiv Online Incomplete, AI learning Currently studying four major AI operating tools: Midjourney, Jasper AI, DALL-E, and ChatGPT, which are applied to both new and existing business contexts. SKILLS Strategic Planning Market Expansion Social Media Assessment Franchise Opportunity Presentations Leadership Team Management Negotiation Skills Building teams Retaining star employees Sales Strategy Marketing Campaigns Relationship Management Revenue Management Operational Efficiency Brand Development Innovative Marketing Strategies Operational Process Streamlining Strategic Thinking Innovation Budgeting Mentoring staff Coaching Market Analysis Digital Marketing Communication Skills