Chief Executive Officer (Los Angeles)

Japanese Bilingual President & CEO – U.S. Business (Restaurant Industry)

I'm currently retained to identify a President & CEO for the U.S. business of a fast-growing Japanese restaurant brand.

Work Location: West LA, CA

Compensation: Around $200K (depending on experience)

The company has successfully opened its first U.S. location in West LA, with a second store scheduled to open on the East Coast this October. Looking ahead, the business plans an aggressive nationwide expansion through a franchise-led model (approximately 90% franchised, 10% company-owned).

This executive will take full ownership of the U.S. business and play a key role in driving its long-term growth strategy.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the overall U.S. business strategy and operations


• Drive nationwide expansion across the U.S.


• Develop and execute franchise growth strategies


• Manage P&L and deliver business performance


• Build and develop high-performing local leadership teams


• Work closely with investors, financial institutions, and strategic partners

Requirements

• Japanese English Bilingual (Business level)


• Executive leadership experience in the restaurant or food & beverage industry (QSR, sushi, ramen, cafés, restaurants, etc.)


• Proven experience scaling multi-unit operations


• Strong P&L management and strategic planning experience


• Franchise development and partnership experience


• Business-level English with strong negotiation skills


• International business or overseas management experience


• Ability to bridge corporate strategy with local market execution


• Extensive experience in senior leadership roles within the restaurant or food service industry.


• Experience with any type of restaurant business (e.g., sushi, ramen, cafés, or full-service restaurants) is welcome. The ideal candidate will have a proven ability to lead operations, build and scale teams, and drive long-term business growth.