JKS Restaurants cements leadership team with two MD appointments

JKS Restaurants has shaken up its leadership team with the appointment of Joanne Searley and Laura Irving as managing directors. 

Searley, former COO, is now managing director of Sabor, Berenjak, Plaza Khao Gaeng and Speedboat Bar, while Irving, former chief marketing officer, is now managing director of Trishna, Gymkhana, Brigadiers, Ambassadors Clubhouse and 42. 

Both will work alongside co-founders Jyotin Sethi, Karam Sethi and Sunaina Sethi to drive an international growth strategy. 

During 10 years with JKS, Searley has played a pivotal role in the group’s growth from 3 to 30 restaurants. 

She has built successful partnerships with JKS’ collaborators during the pandemic, championed mental health initiatives, fostered connections with industry charities, and mentored women in hospitality. 

With additional London sites planned for Sabor, Berenjak, Plaza Khao Gaeng and Speedboat Bar, she will continue to work with chef partners to enhance JKS’ operations. 

With a background in premium restaurant brands, Irving has showcased her expertise not only in marketing and communications, but also in driving strategic growth across all business areas. 

Now at the helm of JKS’ five premium Indian brands with a total of three Michelin stars among them, she will work with the leadership teams across these restaurants to build on their success. 

Sethi said: “JKS has expanded significantly since my siblings and I founded Trishna 16 years ago. As we continue to grow, it’s essential to strengthen our leadership from within. 

“We are immensely proud to be promoting Laura and Joanne who have contributed so much to our success. We look forward to working with them to drive forward our growth and support our restaurants as they become global brands.”