Murad Mirzayev

As Advisor to the CEO, I worked closely with the company’s leadership to shape strategy and guide decision-making, providing clear, fact-based recommendations that supported our growth and improvement objectives. I played a pivotal role in onboarding new department managers, ensuring they swiftly embraced our culture, values, and standards, while also collaborating across all departments to streamline operations, foster cohesion, and maintain focused progress toward shared goals. I served as a vital communication link between the CEO and various teams, ensuring expectations were clear and that information flowed seamlessly. I also managed special projects and events on a short-term basis—most notably leading Pizza Mizza’s involvement in global events like COP29.

As Director of Operations, I took on a comprehensive leadership role that encompassed strategic planning, operational oversight, and cross-departmental coordination, effectively functioning as the primary driving force behind the company’s daily and long-term initiatives. Leveraging this strategic, hands-on approach, I achieved a 25% revenue increase across existing branches. Concurrently, I led a successful expansion from 10 to 13 locations within four months, managing every phase from site selection, construction, to marketing and launch execution. Throughout these efforts, I aligned all departments—operations, HR, marketing, and customer service—ensuring cohesive teamwork, high performance standards, and consistent brand growth.

As a L&D Manager, I was brought in as a specialist to develop and elevate the department. My focus was on creating a strong training culture, developing comprehensive training concepts, and designing educational materials across all areas.

In this consultancy-based advisory role, my primary focus centered on identifying opportunities for brand modernization and development across both local and international markets. I provided the owner/CEO with strategic guidance on operational efficiencies, marketing initiatives, and HR processes. Additionally, I was instrumental in formulating a comprehensive franchise model to enhance the brand’s scalability and global presence.

At TGI Fridays Baku, I actively participated in every stage of the brand’s launch preparation in Azerbaijan, overseeing all operational details to ensure a strong market entry. In parallel, I successfully completed the MIT (Manager-in-Training) program, enhancing my leadership capabilities and operational readiness. Although the project was postponed indefinitely due to the COVID-19 pandemic, my contributions established a robust strategic framework for the brand’s anticipated debut in the country.

As Head of F&B Operations at The Merchant Hotel during its pre-opening phase, I held a strategic, hands-on role in conceptualizing and launching an innovative restaurant concept, and structuring the entire F&B department.

As Director of Operations for the leading luxury chain of lounges, I was responsible for the strategic development and execution of the group’s business plan, working closely with stakeholders on market analysis, financial forecasting, and competitive positioning. My role encompassed optimizing operational budgets, driving revenue growth, and ensuring cost efficiency across all business units. I led efforts to elevate the brand's market presence through targeted marketing and public relations initiatives, while also overseeing seamless operations. My focus on operational excellence included the implementation of rigorous policies and procedures, aimed at maintaining the highest standards of service and quality.

As AGM at Hard Rock Cafe Baku, I played a pivotal role in the pre-opening phase, successfully completing the MIT (Manager-in-Training) program while managing all departments and introducing the Hard Rock brand and culture to Azerbaijan. Post-launch, I oversaw operations, brand management, marketing, events, employee engagement, and guest experience—ensuring the team fully embraced the brand’s core values and operational standards. My responsibilities included spearheading marketing initiatives, planning events, and enhancing guest satisfaction through proactive engagement and service excellence. I was actively involved in recruitment, training, people development, cost management, safety compliance, and strategic planning, all of which contributed to the venue’s financial performance and long-term success.

As a pivotal member of the pre-opening team for the first Bravo Supermarket, I was tasked with overseeing food category operations, training, and department setup. Senior management entrusted me with leading the critical initiatives for the first stock order, merchandising, and overall store readiness, ensuring a seamless and successful launch. I directed the organization and management of over 20,000 SKUs, implemented strategic warehouse planning, and ensured rigorous adherence to Food Safety Standards (FSS). In addition, I led human capital development efforts, including recruitment, training, and performance management, to align the team with the brand’s service excellence standards.

As one of the key leaders involved in launching Buddha-Bar Baku, I was fully engaged at every stage of introducing the brand’s distinctive culture and experience to the Azerbaijani market. Having successfully completed the MIT program, I managed all operational processes—from supply chain coordination and staff development to guest experience and overall ambiance—ensuring that the essence of the global Buddha-Bar brand was faithfully reflected in the local setting.

From the pre-opening phase, I was actively involved in all aspects of Chinar’s operations, playing a crucial role in elevating service standards and establishing a fine dining culture. I created and led the training department, developing comprehensive programs that enhanced staff performance and service techniques. Additionally, I organized and managed high-profile international events featuring VVIP guests, including national leaders and their delegations, ensuring flawless execution and memorable experiences. My leadership in shaping the company culture and overseeing operational processes significantly contributed to Chinar’s ability to host prestigious gatherings successfully.