Madan Kishor: Visionary Business Leader of the Year, 2025

An In-Depth Interview with the Culinary Trailblazer and General Manager of Kebabs Faktory

In an industry constantly evolving, Madan Kishor stands out as a true visionary. With over 27 years of expertise in the hospitality and food & beverage (F&B) industry, he has earned his reputation as a leader who blends culinary artistry with operational excellence. As the General Manager of Kebabs Faktory, Kishor is redefining the Mediterranean dining experience and leading the charge in creating a globally recognized brand. 

In this exclusive interview with The Entrepreneur Insights magazine, he shares his journey, leadership philosophy, and insights into the future of F&B.

From Humble Beginnings to Leadership

“My journey in the hospitality and F&B industry spans over 27 years, driven by a passion for culinary excellence and innovation,” Kishor begins, reflecting on his storied career. Starting his career in food and beverage management, he learned the ropes at prestigious establishments such as Capella Hotels and Resorts and The Fullerton Hotels & Resorts.

Kishor’s experience in these high-end luxury hotels laid a solid foundation in culinary operations and gave him exposure to diverse cuisines. It was in these early years that he developed a deep appreciation for Middle-Eastern and Mediterranean dishes. The pivotal moment in his career, however, came when he joined Shabestan Restaurant and Pita Tree Kebabs as Executive Director. This role allowed him to blend his strategic mind with his passion for food, driving the expansion of these brands.

Eventually, Kishor’s leadership acumen led him to Kebabs Faktory, where he now serves as General Manager. “What inspires me most is the art of gastronomy—the ability to craft unforgettable dining experiences that not only please the palate but also tell a story,” he says, his eyes lighting up as he speaks.

Leadership at Kebabs Faktory: A Vision for Excellence and Innovation

As the General Manager of Kebabs Faktory, Kishor has applied his vast experience to create a culture of innovation and operational excellence. “I balance culinary artistry with operational excellence by focusing on three key areas: strategic planning, team empowerment, and customer experience,” he explains.

His leadership style is hands-on and deeply engaged with both the culinary and service teams. “I believe in fostering a culture of innovation, where my team is constantly pushing boundaries. We don’t just settle for good enough; we’re always aiming for something better,” Kishor emphasizes.

What sets Kishor apart is his commitment to building a high-performance culture. “My leadership isn’t just about managing; it’s about empowering others to take ownership and drive change,” he says. Whether it’s refining processes or encouraging creativity, Kishor believes that an empowered team is the backbone of any successful restaurant.

Transforming Dining Experiences at Kebabs Faktory

At Kebabs Faktory, Kishor is leading a transformation of Mediterranean dining in Singapore. The brand’s vision is clear: to be the leading quick-service kebab chain offering fresh, authentic, and tasty food that customers can rely on for both quality and value.

“We’ve built a concept that combines authenticity with innovation,” Kishor shares. “Our kebabs come from around the world, but we allow customers to personalize their meals with fresh salads, homemade sauces, and a wide array of toppings. The emphasis is on healthy, customizable meals—whether it’s keto, dairy-free, vegan, or gluten-free.”

One of the standout features at Kebabs Faktory is its focus on catering to diverse dietary preferences. “We’re proud to offer healthier alternatives that resonate with a wide audience. Whether you’re looking for a high-protein meal or a plant-based option, we have something for everyone,” says Kishor.

Staying Competitive Through Innovation

Kishor’s leadership extends beyond the kitchen and into the broader business strategy, where he has implemented several innovative approaches to drive growth and customer satisfaction. “We’ve made strides in menu diversification, integrating technology, and committing to sustainability,” he reveals.

Key Strategies at Kebabs Faktory:

1. Menu Diversification: Expanding the menu to include a mix of Mediterranean, Middle-Eastern, Turkish, Mexican, and Indian cuisines to appeal to diverse palates.

2. Technology Integration: Incorporating digital ordering systems and loyalty programs to enhance customer experience and streamline operations.

3. Sustainability Initiatives: The brand is working towards becoming 100% plastic-free, and they’ve incorporated plant-based alternatives, such as jackfruit, into their menu.

4. Localization: Introducing seasonal, locally-inspired flavors like Mala Mayo, Rendang, and Sambal to cater to Singaporean tastes.

“We want to be more than just a kebab shop,” says Kishor. “We want to be an experience—a place where our customers feel connected to the food and the culture behind it.”

Operational Excellence: The Backbone of Success

With decades of experience under his belt, Kishor knows that operational excellence is key to running a successful business. He credits several practices as essential to maintaining quality and efficiency:

1. Efficient Inventory Management: Using real-time tracking systems to optimize stock levels and minimize waste.

2. Standardized Recipes: Ensuring consistency in taste and quality across all Kebabs Faktory locations.

3. Staff Training and Development: “Investing in our team is one of the best ways to ensure high service standards and customer satisfaction,” says Kishor. Comprehensive training programs are key to delivering a premium experience.

4. Technology Integration: Leveraging POS systems and kitchen display systems to ensure faster service and accuracy.

5. Quality Control: “We take pride in ensuring that every meal leaving our kitchen meets our high standards. Quality checks are implemented at every stage,” Kishor adds.

Committing to a Greener Future

Kishor’s vision goes beyond just business success—he’s equally committed to sustainability and social impact. “At Kebabs Faktory, we aim to reduce our environmental footprint while giving back to the community,” he shares.

Key sustainability initiatives include:

● Waste Reduction: Working towards a 100% plastic-free operation and reducing food waste.

● Local Sourcing: Prioritizing local ingredients to support agriculture and reduce the carbon footprint.

● Plant-Based Options: “We’re exploring collaborations with brands like Impossible and Tindle in the future, and in the meantime, we’ve incorporated jackfruit as a natural alternative to meat.”

Kishor also highlights the company’s active involvement in local charities and community engagement. “It’s important to us that we contribute to the communities where we operate.”

Overcoming Challenges: Resilience in the Face of Adversity

Running a multi-location restaurant chain comes with its share of challenges. Kishor highlights two key obstacles: maintaining consistency across multiple outlets and navigating the COVID-19 pandemic.

“We overcame these challenges by implementing standardized operating procedures across all locations and investing in technology to streamline operations,” he explains. “The pandemic taught us the importance of agility, and we quickly adapted by enhancing our delivery services and ensuring the safety of our employees and customers.”

Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Kishor has big plans for Kebabs Faktory. ‘Our long-term goal is to build a globally recognized brand that rivals major fast food chains like McDonald’s and Domino’s,’ he says confidently. Madan Kishor’s journey from humble beginnings to industry leadership is a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As he continues to lead Kebabs Faktory toward a global future, one thing is certain – his commitment to redefining the dining experience will continue to inspire both customers and aspiring entrepreneurs alike.

His roadmap for the future includes:

● International Expansion: Targeting key markets such as Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, and India.

● Product Diversification: “We’re considering expanding into merchandise, like spices and dips, to extend our brand beyond the restaurant,” he adds.

● Franchise Model: “A well-developed franchise model will allow us to scale quickly while maintaining the quality our customers expect.”

● Sustainability Leadership: Striving to be an industry leader in sustainable practices within the fast food sector.

The Art of Team Building

Kishor believes that team building is integral to running a successful business. His approach includes clear communication, empowerment, continuous learning, and recognition. “A strong team is the backbone of any restaurant,” he emphasizes.

His advice to aspiring leaders? “Lead by example, be open to feedback, and foster an environment where every team member feels valued.”

Staying Ahead of the Curve

Kishor’s approach to staying relevant in the rapidly changing F&B landscape involves continuous learning and adaptation. “We monitor market trends closely, engage with customers, and collaborate with food tech companies to bring fresh ideas to our menu,” he shares.

He also stays updated by attending industry events and embracing new technologies that enhance both the customer experience and operational efficiency.

Words of Wisdom

The Key to Long-Term Success

Kishor’s ultimate piece of advice to the next generation of F&B professionals is clear: “Stay passionate, be adaptable, and never stop learning. The industry is always changing, and those who can adapt quickly while staying true to their values will succeed.”

Signature Quote:

“In the kitchen of success, passion is the main ingredient, innovation is the spice, and customer satisfaction is the perfect garnish.”

This philosophy sums up Kishor’s approach to life and business, and it’s what drives him to continue pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of food and hospitality.

Madan Kishor’s journey from humble beginnings to industry leadership is a testament to the power of passion, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As he continues to lead Kebabs Faktory toward a

global future, one thing is certain – his commitment to redefining the dining experience will continue to inspire both customers and aspiring entrepreneurs alike.

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