Foodservice & Franchise Management
Hi, I’m Karen. Your go-to F&B Expert specializing in Foodservice and Franchise Management.
Karen Lam
SG
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How I Work
Bio

Karen is an experienced business development & operation manager with a demonstrated history of developing and executing company-wide business strategies, action-plans across F&B and retail industries, B2B and B2C. She held instrumental roles in the execution and support of new business start-ups in Singapore, Vietnam, and the United Kingdom, from concept design to the finish line. She was responsible for delivering customer service, product, and sales training programs to give service providers and sales executives the skills they needed to meet their KPIs.

Currently, she holds the position of Country Managing Director at Thoughtful Food, where she is responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive business plans to achieve the goals of the board and shareholders. With a keen eye for detail, she plans and executes cost-effective operations and market development activities, ensuring the company stays ahead of the competition.

As the Senior Operations Manager at Palm Tree Foods Pte Ltd, she had developed and implemented standard operating procedures (SOPs) and training programs to drive team efficiency and operational excellence. Her ability to align business objectives with marketing strategies was particularly noteworthy, as she frequently collaborated with both local and APAC Marketing Directors to execute brand-wide and localized marketing plans, A&P activities, and promotions.

Case Studies
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Blog Posts
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Experience

Thoughtful Food Pte Ltd

Thoughtful Food Pte Ltd is a Singapore start-up that manufactures and distributes dry plant-based protein mixes to caterers, food manufacturers, healthcare institutions, restaurants, and hotels

Country Managing Director ・ City 2021 - Present

  • Develop and execute company's business strategies to attain the goals of the board and shareholders.
  • Provide strategic advice to the board for an accurate view of the market and the company's future.
  • Prepare and implement comprehensive business plans to facilitate achievement.
  • Plan cost-effective operations and market development activities.

Palm Tree Foods Pte Ltd

Senior Operations Manager (Little Caesars Pizza & Subway Franchise Stores)・ City 2020 - 2021

  • Develop SOPs, training materials & programs to drive team efficiency and operational excellence.
  • Recruit, identify and develop potential staff for succession planning.
  • Review monthly P&L and performance audit reports with managers to drive achievement of sales targets and cost control for all outlets.

Ryan's Grocery (GWC) Pte Ltd

Operations Manager (SG Retail & Restaurant)・ City 2019-2020

  • Headhunted to spear head retail business expansion plans for Singapore and Vietnam markets.
  • Developed service standard operation procedure manuals to support training programs for Ho Chi Minh's franchisee.
  • Managed construction timeline for Great World City flagship retail & restaurant concept store, working closely with building management, key designers, and equipment suppliers.

Gain Investments Group Pte Ltd (sub.GBI)

Head of Food Services & ShareholderSingapore & United Kingdom 2018-2021

  • Executed and managed new Acai business start-up of Como Bem in City of Oxford, UK. Responsible for managing timeline of renovation, equipment purchases and import, supplies management, staff recruitment and training, sales and marketing, operations, and payroll management in accordance with local UK city council laws and regulations.
  • Key influencer and contact for brand acquisition decisions and contract negotiations.
  • Procurement, costs, and strategic price management for acquired brands targeted for both Singapore & UK sales office. Product range included organic coffees and teas, protein bars, bottled drinks and artisanal spirits and gluten free beers.
SG
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