Nabiha Khan: Managing Director

Nabiha Khan

MSc Innovation & Entrepreneurship, 2017

Based in:

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Advice for current students:

Get stuck in: Look for internships, part-time roles, or projects that give you real-world experience.
Build your network: Connect with alumni, attend industry events, and don’t be afraid to reach out to people for advice.
Keep learning: Stay curious and keep up with what’s happening in your industry. The more you know, the more opportunities you’ll spot.

Best piece of advice you've ever received:

“Lead with empathy.” Understanding the people around you– whether it’s your team, your customers, or your partners– is the foundation of great leadership. It’s something I try to live by every day.

Ambitions for the future:

I’d love to take Red Chillies Hospitality to new markets and see our brands become household names internationally. I’m also passionate about supporting women in leadership roles, so I hope to mentor more women in the industry and inspire the next generation of leaders.

Managing Director, Red Chillies Hospitality

Describe your current role and what attracted you to it.

As the Managing Director of Red Chillies Hospitality, I oversee the strategic direction and operations of multiple restaurants across Saudi Arabia. What attracted me to this role was the opportunity to lead a dynamic team in a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry. I am passionate about creating exceptional dining experiences and driving innovation in the hospitality sector. This role allows me to combine my strategic thinking, leadership skills, and love for hospitality to grow our brands and maintain our competitive edge.

What’s your favourite part of the role?

My favourite part of the role is the ability to innovate and strategise for our brands. I thrive on identifying new opportunities, whether it’s expanding our market presence, enhancing customer experiences, or developing unique culinary concepts. Additionally, mentoring and empowering my team to achieve their full potential is incredibly rewarding.

What are the key skills you learnt at Warwick that have helped you with your career to date?

At Warwick, I developed critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership skills that have been instrumental in my career. The ability to analyse complex situations, make data-driven decisions, and communicate effectively has helped me navigate the challenges of the hospitality industry. Additionally, the global perspective I gained at Warwick has been invaluable in managing an international business.

Did you have a specific career path in mind when you chose to study at Warwick?

While I didn’t have a specific career path in mind, I knew I wanted to work in a dynamic, people-oriented industry. Warwick’s diverse and challenging academic environment helped me develop the adaptability and resilience needed to excel in the hospitality sector.

What top tips do you have for Warwick graduates who would like to work in your sector?

1. Be adaptable: The hospitality industry is fast-paced and constantly evolving. Embrace change and be open to learning new skills.

2. Focus on customer experience: Whether you’re in operations, marketing, or leadership, always prioritize the customer.

3. Build a strong network: Relationships are key in this industry. Attend industry events, connect with professionals, and seek mentorship.

4. Develop leadership skills: Hospitality is a team-driven industry. Learn how to inspire and lead diverse teams effectively.

What does a typical day look like for you?

A typical day usually starts early with a quick review of emails and updates from our teams across Saudi Arabia. Mornings often involve strategy meetings with my leadership team, where we discuss everything from new business opportunities to operational improvements. I might spend time reviewing financial performance, brainstorming marketing campaigns, or exploring ways to enhance the customer experience.

In the afternoons, I often visit our restaurants to meet with managers and staff, ensuring everything runs smoothly and that our teams feel supported. I also use this time to connect with customers. Feedback’s one of the best ways to stay grounded and understand what’s working (and what’s not).

Later in the day, I might have calls with suppliers, partners, or industry contacts to discuss collaborations or new initiatives. I also carve out time for mentoring my team, helping them develop their skills and navigate challenges. Evenings are usually reserved for winding down, though I often find myself jotting down ideas or reflecting on the day’s achievements.

While it’s a busy schedule, I wouldn’t have it any other way. Every day brings new challenges and opportunities, and I thrive on the energy and creativity of the hospitality industry.

What has been your greatest career challenge to date and how did your experience and skills help overcome it?

The biggest challenge I’ve faced was steering the business through the COVID-19 pandemic. Overnight, we had to rethink everything - from shifting to delivery services to finding new ways to connect with customers. It was a tough time, but my ability to stay calm under pressure, think strategically, and rally my team made all the difference. We not only survived but came out stronger and more innovative.

What do you know now that you wish you had known when you were applying for jobs?

Looking back, I wish I had known that it’s okay not to have everything figured out straight away. When I was applying for jobs, I put a lot of pressure on myself to find the “perfect”role or to follow a linear career path. What I’ve learned since is that careers are rarely straightforward - they’re full of twists, turns, and unexpected opportunities.