Introduction

Hello, I’m Kamel Elmangalify, and I am thrilled to welcome you to my Udemy courses focused on the dynamic and exciting world of food service and restaurant management.

My Journey

My passion for the restaurant industry began back in 1991, while I was a student at the Faculty of Commerce at Cairo University. Like many in the industry, I started from the ground up, working as a busboy, then progressing to waiter and supervisor. These early experiences laid a strong foundation for my career and instilled in me a deep understanding of the operations and intricacies of the food service industry.

Professional Growth

After graduating, I took a brief detour into education, teaching accounting and computer science at a commercial secondary school. However, my passion for the restaurant business never waned. In 2000, I returned to the industry, joining McDonald's as a Manager Trainee. My dedication and hard work paid off, and I quickly climbed the ranks to become a First Assistant Store Manager, overseeing store operations.

In 2003, seeking new opportunities, I joined Cinnabon. After receiving extensive training in the UAE, I returned to Egypt to open the second Cinnabon branch in the country, eventually becoming an Area Manager. This role was a significant milestone, allowing me to manage multiple locations and hone my leadership skills.

Expanding Horizons

In 2006, I joined Starbucks in Saudi Arabia, gaining valuable experience with one of the world's most iconic coffee brands. The following year, I returned to Egypt and took on the role of Operations Manager at Second Cup, a position I held for two years.

My career then took me through various roles in local restaurants across different categories, including casual dining, fast casual, and pizza. Each role added a unique layer to my expertise, from understanding diverse cuisines to managing different types of restaurant operations.

Leading at Scale

In 2014, I joined Joffrey's, an international American café chain in Saudi Arabia, as Operations Manager. Here, I managed an impressive 40 shops and oversaw a team of over 200 staff members. This role was a testament to my ability to handle large-scale operations, ensuring consistency and quality across all locations.

Lifelong Learning and Staying Current

One of my core beliefs is the importance of continuous learning and staying updated with the latest trends and developments in the food service industry. I am always reading, researching, and updating my professional knowledge to ensure that I am aware of the most recent innovations and best practices. This commitment to learning allows me to bring fresh and relevant insights into my courses, helping you stay ahead in this ever-evolving industry.

Sharing My Knowledge

With over two decades of rich and varied experience in the food service industry, I am excited to share my knowledge with you. My courses are designed to provide practical insights and strategies that can help you succeed in the restaurant business, whether you are an aspiring restaurateur, a current manager, or simply passionate about food service.

Join me as we delve into the fascinating world of restaurant management, exploring everything from daily operations to long-term strategic planning. Together, we'll unlock the secrets to running a successful and thriving food service business.