Arab’s Most INFLUENTIAL
General Manager to watch in
2025
General Manager & Owner Yawmiyat by Dalal
Sara
Katanani Cultivating Culinary Nostalgia with Leadership Rooted in Heritage
Publisher: Harry Thompson ADDRESS Managing Editor: James Jonhson Art and Design Head: Kate wood Business Development Manager: Kevin Grey, Mark Jones Executive: Fatima Al Fahad
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FROM THE EDITOR A Voice that Moves Business Forward
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n a world where expectations rise faster than the morning sun, there's something incredibly grounding about people who stay true to their core while still daring to redefine what's possible. Each edition we craft is a celebration of such individuals who don't just chase success but sculpt it, patiently and passionately. This time, we're sharing an inspirational story that doesn't shout about change but shows how staying consistent, honoring culture, and having a clear vision can make a big difference. What makes a general manager truly influential? It's not the loudest pitch or the flashiest boardroom strategy. It's in the quiet decisions that ripple outward—the ones that shape teams, build trust, and leave a mark that's built to last. Welcome to Arab's Most Influential General Manager to Watch in 2025—an edition that reflects ambition seasoned with purpose and progress grounded in values. At the heart of this edition is Sara Katanani, the powerhouse behind Yawmiyat, a celebrated Middle Eastern restaurant in Saudi Arabia. Sara's hands-on approach has positioned Yawmiyat as a beloved name in culinary circles, earning it top honors at the Leaders in F&B KSA Awards 2024. But awards aside, it's Sara's steadfast dedication to authenticity and guest experience that truly makes her stand out. As you turn each page, you'll get leadership insights that inspire, challenge, and spark ideas. Whether you're a decision-maker or a daydreamer, we hope this edition offers you fresh perspectives and a renewed appreciation for the art of mindful management. Enjoy the read!
James jonhson - Managing Editor
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Cultivating Culinary Nostalgia with Leadership Rooted in Heritage
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AT YAWMIYAT, WE DON'T OPERATE AS A TEAM WE THRIVE AS A FAMILY.
GENERAL MANAGER & OWNER YAWMIYAT BY DALAL
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n the rapidly evolving food and beverage industry, where trends shift with seasons and customer expectations demand innovation, standing out requires more than quality—it demands soul. The industry is experiencing a renewed appetite for experiences that go beyond the plate, weaving memories, emotions, and authenticity into every dish served. It is within this space of sentiment and substance that one executive has distinguished herself by championing a return to heartfelt tradition and meaningful service. Through a remarkable blend of operational precision, cultural preservation, and emotional connection, she has nurtured a brand that resonates deeply with its community. Her approach is not only revitalizing a nostalgic culinary narrative but also setting a benchmark for leadership rooted in empathy, consistency, and innovation. Sara Katanani, General Manager and Owner at Yawmiyat, is steering this purpose-driven venture with unwavering commitment. Her passion for preserving and celebrating culinary heritage is crafting a powerful model of sustainable success in the hospitality landscape. Let's dive into an inspiring conversation with Sara Katanani as she shares how she leads Yawmiyat with purpose, passion, and a promise to serve memories, not just meals!
As the General Manager and Owner of Yawmiyat, how has your journey shaped the soul of this nostalgic food venture? My journey has deeply influenced the heart of this food venture by preserving cultural heritage in meaningful ways, most notably through sharing treasured
family recipes that bring a sense of home to our guests. It has brought together communities who live far from their roots and long for the warmth of family gatherings. Along the way, I've worked to strike a thoughtful balance between tradition and innovation, blending passion with dedication, and ensuring the authenticity of our offerings. This commitment has earned us our valued customers' enduring trust and loyalty. What does a typical day look like in your role, and how do you bring the essence of "mama's food" to the table, both literally and strategically? As General Manager at Yawmiyat, my day is filled with diverse responsibilities that begin early and demand consistent focus. The day usually starts with addressing operational challenges—ensuring that our processes are running smoothly and that the team is aligned. How we begin the day often sets the tone for everything that follows, especially in a business like ours where attention to detail is everything. After the initial operational walkthrough, I shift to the back office to review our financials, verifying costs, invoices, payments, and any budgetrelated concerns. This business can involve unexpected, avoidable costs if not monitored thoroughly. That's why maintaining a daily financial overview is essential to sustaining our overall efficiency. Later in the day, I focus on marketing efforts and customer experience. It's important to me that our guests feel the warmth and sincerity behind every interaction. Our brand is built on the comforting essence of "mama's food," and I work hard to make sure that sense of care comes through in our hospitality,
our messaging, and our service throughout every hour we're open. What core values guide your leadership style, especially in an industry that thrives on tradition and innovation? I believe leadership begins with creating a sense of belonging within the team. When individuals feel like part of a close-knit family, that warmth naturally extends to our clients—something that lies at the heart of our business. Many of our team members have been with us for years, and we place complete trust in their ability to reflect our values with sincerity and care. We're intentional about bringing on board young, passionate individuals who appreciate the importance of relationships and mutual respect. While the industry values new ideas, staying true to who we are and maintaining authenticity is what truly resonates with clients eventually. In building a brand that evokes childhood memories, what have been some of the most challenging decisions you've had to make? I believe that building a brand so deeply rooted in childhood memories is a profoundly emotional journey. Those memories stay with you forever—whether it's a dish my grandmother prepared with unmatched love and precision or something I cherished as a child that my mother now recreates and we offer to our clients. For me, one of the most difficult decisions has been finding the balance between honoring tradition and adapting innovation. It's especially challenging when it involves reimagining a dish that holds personal
touch, like one that reminds me of my grandmother, while also refining it to align with contemporary tastes. I feel that remaining faithful to the cultural and emotional essence of our heritage while introducing innovation is never simple. Translating that feeling of comfort, warmth, and home into a form that resonates today takes thoughtful effort and care. The culinary landscape is evolving rapidly—how do you ensure that Yawmiyat stays both authentic and ahead of the curve? At Yawmiyat, our commitment to authenticity remains unwavering, even as the culinary industry is evolving rapidly. While we stay
attentive to market trends and evolving tastes, our focus is on presenting offerings that genuinely connect with people emotionally. I believe that, amid constant change, there is a growing appreciation for the eternal flavors that evoke tradition and comfort. By blending contemporary insights with classic sensibilities, we ensure that Yawmiyat remains true to its roots while staying relevant to our audience. Yawmiyat isn't just a catering service—it's a cultural experience. How do you instill this sense of purpose within your team? My mother, Dalal, has spent an incredible amount of time with the
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team, personally guiding them through every aspect of service, from technical skills to heartfelt connection. She treats every member not as staff, but as her own children. This nurturing approach has naturally instilled her values of love, care, and sincere hospitality in the entire team. As a result, our team extends that same warmth and commitment to our clients, not out of obligation, but out of genuine affection and respect. There's a deep, unspoken understanding that their joy and their challenges are shared by all of us. "At Yawmiyat, we don't operate as a team—we thrive as a family.” Have there been any recognitions or milestones that you feel especially proud of as a leader in this unique space? One of the milestones that stands out in my journey is the decision to transition from an established career in banking into the food and beverage industry. It was a significant shift, leaving a wellestablished path in my mid-thirties to return to Saudi Arabia and support my parents in managing Yawmiyat. My father had poured years of dedication into the business, and as he approached retirement, I felt it was my turn to step in and contribute meaningfully. Starting from ground zero, I immersed myself in every aspect of the operation. I worked as a waitress, a cashier, in customer service, and managed the financials—all to gain a clear understanding of where I could make the most impact. My background in client service and public relations became particularly valuable, allowing me to increase the brand's visibility and build deeper connections with our audience. This effort became a turning point for
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By blending contemporary insights with classic sensibilities, we ensure that Yawmiyat remains true to its roots while staying relevant to our audience.
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Yawmiyat, reshaping our presence in the market.
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Talking about the accolades, one recognition that holds meaning for me is receiving the 'Best PR Manager of the Year' award. It served as both an acknowledgment of my journey and a confirmation that stepping into the unknown to support and grow our family business was the right decision. The food industry is challenging—how do you maintain a sense of balance between work and personal life? I acknowledge the intense demands of the food industry, where the busiest days fall on weekends and festive occasions, times when most other industries slow down. To maintain balance, I have adapted by taking vacations during the off-season, ensuring my mind can truly detach from business responsibilities. I always appreciate the strength of the company's leadership structure, which rests on the combined efforts of my mother, me, and Chef George Chartouni. Together, we have cultivated a level of mutual trust and coordination that allows any one of us to step away, knowing the others will manage operations seamlessly. Additionally, the reliability and dedication of the broader team contribute significantly, giving me the confidence to recharge when needed. What vision do you hold for Yawmiyat five years down the line, and what legacy do you hope to build? Looking ahead, my vision for Yawmiyat over the next five years is centered on growth through creativity and a deep connection with people. We have a range of ideas we are excited to
bring to life—concepts that will stay true to our roots while continuing to touch hearts. Each initiative will be thoughtfully developed to preserve the authenticity that defines Yawmiyat while introducing fresh elements that resonate with our community. My mother, Dalal, is the legacy of Yawmiyat, and her love, warmth, hospitality, and exceptional culinary talent are the soul of Yawmiyat. I aspire for these qualities to remain at the heart of our brand and to be passed down through generations. This legacy of genuine care and heartfelt experiences is what I aim to nurture and sustain as we move forward. To conclude, what advice would you offer to emerging leaders who dream of turning a heartfelt idea into a powerful brand like Yawmiyat? I advise the emerging leaders to remain true to themselves and their vision. I believe, "Your genuine passion and belief in what you do form the foundation of any long-lasting brand." Just keep loving your work, stay committed, and make it a priority to be actively involved in your business every single day. "Success doesn't come from distance—it comes from presence." From my experience, you must consistently stay informed about every aspect of your operations to preserve your brand's identity and avoid potential setbacks. In the end, it's your daily involvement that helps maintain both the integrity and performance of your business.
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Success
is liking yourself, liking what you do, and liking how you do it. - Maya Angelou
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ADDRESS 30 North Gould Street Sheridan, Wyoming 82801 United States
CONTACT US +1(510)-931-1514
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