JRG Dubai, the home-grown restaurant management company, has promoted chef Ben Tobitt to the position of group executive chef, the group’s most senior culinary post.
Having joined JRG Dubai in 2011 as sous chef at The Ivy, Tobitt steps into the group executive chef role after serving as group head chef since July 2015. With almost two decades of kitchen experience, Tobitt’s new role sees the Briton assume overall responsibility for the group’s entire kitchen portfolio across over 15 dining venues.
Tobitt is also tasked with steering and supporting JRG Dubai’s ongoing growth, primarily through planning and managing the set-up of new kitchens as the group manoeuvres several portfolio expansion initiatives.
“Ben is a key member of the JRG leadership team and his passion and knowledge for the industry is second to none,” said Emma Banks, managing director, JRG Dubai.
“Ben’s constant quest for excellence embodies all aspects of his work and we are very lucky to have him with us as we progress our ambitious growth plans.”
As group head chef, Tobitt was instrumental in the holistic streamlining of JRG Dubai’s kitchen processes and strengthening its culinary team across the multi-brand portfolio. Prior to joining JRG Dubai, Tobitt worked at some of London’s most prestigious restaurants, including Soho House’s Café Boehme and The Ivy, London. He has also worked with a selection of the world’s most renowned culinary artisans, including the Michelin-starred Roux brothers, where Ben honed his flair for innovative gastronomical techniques.
“After strategically repositioning itself ahead of portfolio expansion, JRG Dubai is homing in on some exciting new concept launches in coming months. This process involves simultaneous work in areas such as kitchen design, menu development, recruitment, and extensive equipment procurement,” Tobitt said.
“I am very excited about the multi-faceted nature of this new position because I can lead the culinary process while working alongside our chefs more regularly in the kitchen.”
JRG Dubai operates 15 restaurants and bars ranging from casual dining venues and lounges to high-end and premium restaurants. The portfolio includes Al Nafoorah, Flow, Pai Thai, Pierchic, Perry & Blackwelder’s, Segreto, The Noodle House, and Trattoria Toscana.
