San Carlo Group is delighted to announce the appointment of Damiano Ruggiero as its Global Head of Operations. This significant, newly expanded leadership role oversees brand strategy, operational excellence, and international development for the iconic Signor Sassi, its sister brand Cicchetti, and all San Carlo restaurants worldwide outside the UK.
Ruggiero steps into this role following a highly successful tenure as General Manager at Signor Sassi Dubai. During this period, he worked closely with Sunset Hospitality Group, the operational partner for the Dubai location, and played a pivotal role as part of the pre-opening team while overseeing the day-to-day operations of the outlet. He led the rebranding of Signor Sassi and managed the launch of the Dubai restaurant, helping to define the brand’s identity and set a new benchmark for operational excellence in the market. His contributions were instrumental in strengthening the brand’s recognition and driving its growth worldwide outside the UK.
During his leadership, his focused vision and operational excellence positioned Signor Sassi Dubai as a standout dining destination in one of the world’s most competitive hospitality markets. It earned recognition for its elevated experience, authentic identity, and strong market performance, solidifying its place as one of the best Italian restaurants for quality, service, and overall experience within its first year. Ruggiero now transitions into his new role within San Carlo Group, bringing a strong track record of brand transformation, operational leadership, and international growth.
Ruggiero’s career in luxury hospitality is rooted in his Italian heritage and a childhood immersed in his family’s global hotel and restaurant businesses. Prior to his success
at Signor Sassi, he was instrumental in the launch and operation of globally recognized brands in Dubai, including Cipriani, Billionaire, and Gordon Ramsay. This foundational experience included spearheading operations at Cipriani DIFC and leading the successful rollout and management of the Cipriani Dolci concept at Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates.
As Global Head of Operations, Damiano Ruggiero will be instrumental in fortifying the Group’s operational standards and ensuring a cohesive, world-class brand experience as San Carlo Group enters a dynamic phase of international growth. His key responsibilities include leading the operational strategy, brand direction, and performance of Signor Sassi; overseeing operations, development, and guest experience for Cicchetti; driving international operations, brand integrity, and market strategy for San Carlo restaurants outside the UK; and ensuring global consistency, excellence, and authenticity aligned with the Group’s Italian hospitality ethos.
“I am honoured to take on this role at such an exciting moment for the Group,” said Damiano Ruggiero, Global Head of Operations. “Signor Sassi, Cicchetti and San Carlo are brands with extraordinary heritage and international potential. I look forward to shaping their next chapter and championing world-class Italian hospitality across the globe.”
