Company Background
German Doner Kebab (GDK) is the most well-known brand in the Hero Brands portfolio. Headquartered in East Kilbride, Glasgow, GDK has 170 restaurants thriving in the UK, Europe, Middle East & North America. GDK is targeting rapid expansion across the UK and International markets to dominate the kebab category globally. GDK generates £163m system and is well positioned to be the dominant #1 kebab brand globally.
GDK’s game changing kebabs are made from the highest quality ingredients, with lean cut meats cut fresh to order, and never held overnight, in a signature waffle bread with secret recipe sauces using a unique blend of herbs and spices. With a strong modern brand that resonates well amongst a primary Gen Z audience, GDK has created a genuinely distinctive and aspirational brand brought to life in modern and dynamic restaurant environments.
GDKI is the brand owner of the GDK brand and has appointed United Brands Ltd, as the Master Franchise for the UK. Both GDKI and United Brands are wholly owned subsidiaries of Hero Brands.
GDK in the UK has seen significant growth over the last 4 years and has recently opened its 141st restaurant and now indirectly employs more than 3,500 team members. All GDK’s UK restaurants are owned and operated by entrepreneurial sub-franchisees. Having established itself as one of the most exciting and most loved QSR brands in the UK, GDK is now looking to take the next step in its growth and has recently announced plans to open another 25 new restaurants in the UK in 2024 and to have over 300 sites in 5 years. Through rampant growth, the vast majority of territories have been allocated and sold to Franchise Partners, there is a requirement to reallocate many of these territories to Franchise Partners that are more capable of fulfilling the growth opportunity.
The North American operation is wholly by GDKI. Having opened the first restaurant in 2021, there are now 11 restaurants trading in North America with GDK now looking to make a step change in performance and has recently announced plans to open another 10 new restaurants in North America in 2024 and to have c. 200 sites in 5 years.
Beyond North America GDKI has appointed Master Franchisees to operate the brand in the UAE, KSA and Sweden. GDKI is now looking to accelerate performance in its existing international markets and to open up several new international territories. GDK has recently announced plans to have c. 900 sites across 15 markets in 5 years.
Led by the GDKI CEO there is now an experienced Senior Management Team in place to catapult the growth of GDK across the UK and the rest of the globe, supported by a discrete and dedicated support office team of c.40 people.
Company Values
SAUCE
Special - Elevating a category means we have to give our guests something special. We want to excite our guests at every touchpoint. We are maniacal about quality and will never cut corners – true to our passion for delivering a special tasting product and special experience every time.
Ambitious - Dominating a category is an ambitious vision. We wake up every single day thinking how we create an economic model that allows great Franchisees to make great levels of return.
At all times, and wherever we work in GDK, we strive to get better and better. In doing so, building a dynasty that allows Franchisees, Suppliers and Team Members to fulfill their full potential
Upstanding - Being upstanding means doing what we say we will. We value integrity in each other and always honour our commitments and hold our hand up when we fail to do this. “Done Right” to us also means “Doing The Right Thing” - our actions will hold up to any ethical standard.
Collective - Leveraging the collective strengths and diversity of our teams is essential to fulfilling our ambition. We recognise & cherish our diverse backgrounds and make everyone feel welcome, respected and valued. We are all part of the GDK Fam and don’t stand on hierarchy, we trust, respect and treat each other with humility at all times.
Entrepreneurialism - Reinventing a category requires courage and entrepreneurialism. We are prepared to take risks and take big bold decisions to super-charge our performance. In doing so we work hard to create an environment where people aren’t afraid to try something new because we realise the biggest risk is not taking a risk at all.
Role Purpose
We are seeking a talented and detail-oriented CAD Technician Designer to join our dynamic team. The ideal candidate will have experience in the leisure and hospitality industry and a strong background in design. You will be responsible for producing comprehensive drawing packs and supporting our design team in creating exceptional projects.
Main Responsibilities
* Produce detailed CAD drawings and full drawing packs for various projects within the leisure and hospitality industry.
* Collaborate with architects, designers, and project managers to ensure accurate and timely delivery of drawings.
* Interpret design concepts and translate them into technical drawings.
* Ensure all drawings comply with industry standards and regulations.
* Assist in the development and maintenance of CAD standards and procedures.
* Review and revise drawings based on feedback from the design team and clients.
* Maintain organized project files and documentation.
* Travel to project sites as needed to gather information and ensure accuracy of drawings.
* Administrative duties as needed.
* Special Project work.
* Work at a fast pace to meet project deadlines and deliverables.
* Report directly to the Head of Projects.
* Work efficiently under pressure to meet tight deadlines.
Experience and capabilities
- Proven experience as a CAD Technician, preferably within the leisure QSR/Fast Casual hospitality industry.
- Drive Thru Experience beneficial.
- Proficiency in CAD software (AutoCAD, Revit, etc.).
- Strong understanding of design principles and the ability to interpret design concepts.
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy.
- Ability to produce comprehensive drawing packs.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines.
- Degree or certification in CAD technology, architecture, or a related field is preferred.
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with 3D modelling and rendering software.
- Knowledge of building codes and regulations.
- Familiarity with project management software.
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Location
- GDK’s Head Office is located in East Kilbride, Glasgow. Travel throughout the UK to meet Franchise Partners is required. Remote/field based position with some office visits. United Kingdom resident required.
Remuneration
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunity to work on exciting and innovative projects in an exciting brand
- Car Allowance
- Benefits of Employee Assistance Program
- Holiday of 32 days (inc of Bank Holidays)
- Profit Related Bonus Scheme
- Life Assurance Cover (5x salary)
- Family Private Health & Dental Insurance
How to Apply: Please submit your resume, portfolio, and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience to Rich Collie, Head of Projects, at Rich@GDK.com. Applications close on 7th February 2025.
Equal Opportunities: GDK German Doner Kebab is an equal opportunities employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.