JKS Hires Hospitality Veteran Pavan Pardasani
Pavan Pardasani, CEO of JKS Restaurants, leads exciting global expansion of renowned Indian eateries, blending tradition and innovation in hospitality across North America, the Middle East, and beyond.
JKS Restaurants, the acclaimed London-based hospitality group founded by siblings Jyotin, Karam, and Sunaina Sethi, has announced the appointment of Pavan Pardasani as its global chief executive officer for the company’s Indian restaurant portfolio. As JKS looks to further expand internationally, Pardasani will oversee iconic establishments such as Trishna, Gymkhana, Brigadiers, and Ambassadors Clubhouse, as well as the strategic growth of these restaurants into new markets.
Pardasani brings over two decades of experience in hospitality, having previously served as chief marketing officer at Tao Group Hospitality, where he led global marketing strategies and managed guest experiences. He has also held leadership roles at Hakkasan Group and Catch Hospitality, contributing to the success of renowned restaurant and lifestyle brands.
In his new role at JKS Restaurants, Pardasani will oversee operations across the company’s established London venues and steer the expansion of its Indian dining concepts into international markets, with immediate plans focusing on North America and the Middle East. The company has stated that Pardasani’s expertise in strategic development and operations, combined with his attention to detail and high standards, will play a pivotal role in furthering the founders’ vision of championing Indian cuisine globally.
Joining Pardasani in the leadership team are Rob Rawleigh, who will serve as US managing partner, and Rick Tomich, who has been appointed US vice-president of marketing for JKS’ Indian restaurants. Laura Irving will continue in her role as managing director for JKS’ Indian restaurants in the UK.
The company is preparing to launch its presence in the US, starting with Ambassadors Clubhouse in Manhattan’s NoMad neighborhood this autumn, followed by Gymkhana at Las Vegas’ Aria Resort & Casino later this year. Jyotin Sethi, co-founder of JKS Restaurants, expressed enthusiasm about Pardasani’s appointment, stating: “Pavan is the perfect addition to our leadership team to help guide this exciting and pivotal expansion. His deep industry knowledge, strategic mindset and passion for hospitality align perfectly with our vision for this next chapter as we continue to champion Indian cuisine globally.”
Pardasani described this opportunity as a “full-circle moment,” emphasizing his excitement to lead JKS’ expansion and share the richness of Indian culture and hospitality with new audiences. “JKS is rooted in tradition, innovation, and community – bringing that spirit to new markets is a true privilege, and a responsibility I carry with great pride,” he said.
JKS Restaurants has already made significant strides in establishing itself as a global player. The company’s turnover for the 65 weeks ending 31 March 2024 totaled £73.6m, demonstrating its ongoing success. With immediate plans set for North America and the Middle East, JKS Restaurants is poised to elevate Indian cuisine to new heights internationally.
