Restaurant Team Leader | IKEA | Mall of Arabia

Job Requisition ID: 182246 

About Al-Futtaim
Established in the 1930s, Al-Futtaim is one of the most diversified and progressive privately held regional businesses, headquartered in Dubai. Operating across more than 20 countries, the Group spans automotive, financial services, real estate, retail and health. With more than 40,000 employees, Al-Futtaim represents over 200 of the world’s most recognised brands, including Toyota, Lexus, IKEA, ACE and Marks & Spencer. Driven by its purpose to enrich lives and elevate communities, Al-Futtaim focuses on digital innovation, AI, sustainable growth and strategic partnerships, creating long-term value for customers, communities and partners while building a responsible legacy for future generations.

• The IKEA Food Team Leader role is pivotal in supporting the manager to fulfill the purpose of the function and drive the development of the IKEA business across various areas such as production and dining services. With a focus on providing irresistible food offers and creating a welcoming atmosphere, the role requires leading by example, engaging with customers and colleagues, and ensuring alignment with IKEA values and goals. The Team Leader is responsible for maintaining high operational standards, supporting marketing activities, and nurturing a culture where diversity and the IKEA vision are embraced.

Customers

• Ensure customers are always in focus and strive to make them smile, meeting and serving with empathy and care.
• Act as a good ambassador for the IKEA store and provide reasons for customers to return.
• Walk the store regularly and engage in daily dialogue with customers to gather feedback and learn about their needs.
• Take immediate action to meet customer needs and improve the in-store experience, encouraging colleagues to do the same.
• Utilize store knowledge to assist and enhance the customer shopping experience.

Commercial

• Contribute to the store business plan and IKEA Food action plans by supporting the manager in implementation.
• Secure an irresistible food offer through attractive presentation and communication.
• Learn about product content, origins, and benefits, sharing knowledge with customers and colleagues.
• Ensure top-selling products are available and well-displayed.
• Support manager in implementing range changes in a cost-effective manner.
• Initiate commercial activities during quiet times to attract visitors.
• Maintain area to be clean, organized, and inviting.
• Provide input on local market awareness regarding range and pricing.

People

• Ensure co-workers understand the IKEA Concept and guidelines relevant to their roles.
• Lead by example, offering support and coaching to meet customer needs and foster professional growth.
• Create a strong IKEA culture and value diversity to make IKEA Food a great place to work.
• Collaborate actively within the team and with colleagues in other store areas.
• Keep colleagues informed to perform roles effectively, sharing knowledge openly.

Steering the business

• Contribute to making the IKEA store successful and achieving sales growth.
• Fulfill agreed goals and take appropriate action to meet them.
• Challenge costs by working in a lean, cost-conscious manner and encourage smarter work methods.

Operations

• Ensure compliance with IKEA Quality and Food Safety Policies.
• Report any food incidents through CASY and contribute to a 'safety first' culture.
• Ensure appropriate staffing levels to run area effectively.
• Proactively work to avoid bottlenecks and improve customer satisfaction.
• Implement daily operational routines and actions set by manager.

• Decision-making and problem-solving abilities with a proactive drive.
• Ability to prioritize and organize tasks effectively.
• Strong communication skills with an ability to collaborate and delegate.
• Leadership potential to advance within IKEA retail operations.

• Experience in a vibrant retail environment with a proven track record.
• Experience in serving customers and working in a team environment.
• Basic English communication skills and familiarity with MS Office.
• Knowledge of IKEA sales, merchandising techniques, culture, and values.

About Al-Futtaim Retail

At Al-Futtaim Retail, we are part of a 90-year legacy built on ambition, progress and long-term vision. As one of the region’s leading retail operators, we partner with some of the world’s most trusted brands – including IKEA, ACE, Marks & Spencer and the Inditex Group – bringing global excellence to customers across MENA and Southeast Asia.

We don’t just operate stores; we shape retail experiences. From launching brands like Watsons and Kiabi to our regions for the first time, to investing in digital innovation, AI capabilities, the customer experience and loyalty platforms, we are constantly redefining the future of retail. 

With over 100 nationalities spread across more than 10 countries, our strength lies in our diverse and collaborative community. Here, you’re equipped to turn your ambition into action, building the career you want, while helping us move retail forwards.

Join us and be part of The Heart of Tomorrow.