Welcome to the Emirates Man weekly series ‘How I got my job as…’ where we speak to some incredible entrepreneurs and businessmen both based in the UAE and globally to find out about their career paths that led them to where they are now; what their daily routines look like; the advice they’d give to those starting out; and the hurdles they’ve had to overcome.
This week, Emirates Man speaks to Ramy Hachem, the visionary founder and CEO of Rayven, a startup-turned-premier boutique commercial brokerage.
After being raised in a family of restauranteurs, Hachem was inspired to enter the industry in his later years and went on a journey to open his own restaurant in Dubai. Years later, after seeing an opportunity with his background in technology and management, he went on to open a boutique commercial brokerage with a primary focus on the F&B sector.
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After consistent efforts for 10 years, propelled Rayven into a successful startup, securing over 200 locations for various businesses.
To delve into his journey as an entrepreneur and leader in this sector, Emirates Man spoke to him to understand how it all began.
What was your favorite subject at school?
I always enjoyed philosophy and history the most. These subjects sharpened my logical thinking and opened my eyes to various perspectives.
What was your first job?
At 21, I moved to Dubai and embarked on a venture of opening my own restaurant. Though I eventually sold it, that experience provided me with an in-depth understanding of the F&B industry. This knowledge proved to be invaluable when I transitioned into the commercial brokerage field. Being familiar with the specific needs, challenges, and operations of F&B businesses enabled me to offer services that went beyond standard brokerage, allowing me to effectively enhance my clients’ businesses.
Tell us more about your background.
I was raised in a family of restaurateurs, so the F&B industry was ingrained in me from a very young age. My grandfather launched Restaurant Hachem in 1960, and my father and uncle worked alongside him. Growing up, I was always part of the restaurant, dedicating my summers to soaking in everything I could — from business operations to working in the kitchen. The hands-on experience at a young age nurtured my interest in hospitality and it became second nature to me. After studying Information Technology and Management at the Lebanese American University, I moved to Dubai to start my solo career as an entrepreneur. The practical insights and skills I gained from my family’s restaurant laid the foundation for me to open my own restaurant in Dubai.
What inspired you to enter the commercial brokerage space and launch Rayven?
I saw an opportunity where my unique background and insights could make a significant impact. I envisioned Rayven as more than just a brokerage; I aimed to be a dedicated partner to operators, guiding them on their paths to success with in-depth knowledge and my personalised approach to each business I enter.
Talk us through the concept.
Rayven operates as a boutique commercial brokerage with a primary focus on the F&B sector. Our expertise lies in connecting landlords with fitting tenants and operators for their sites. Additionally, we assist operators in securing investors and accessing second-market premium locations. Beyond these services, we offer comprehensive guidance in decision-making and support the overall growth of our clients in the industry. Our approach is to act as long-term partners, committed to the sustained success of those we work with.
Talk us through your daily routine.
My day typically starts early with my morning ritual of having coffee while checking emails and messages. During this time, I also make it a point to check in with my clients and update my to-do list with prioritized tasks. Afterwards, I hit the gym, to re-center and focus for the day ahead. The afternoons and evenings are then reserved for meetings and site viewings, often extending into the late hours.
What advice do you have for anyone looking to follow in the same footsteps? Patience, if you believe that you are on the right path, never give up, be disciplined and stay consistent, you will reach your goals. I learned to be patient; it took me 10 years of work to be able to make Rayven the number one F&B commercial brokerage in Dubai, and I am still learning, and working on my dreams, never stopping because I love and enjoy the process.
Tell us more about the services provided.
In addition to our commercial brokerage services, we serve as transparent advisors and partners, supporting our clients at every step of their journey. This encompasses assistance with legal documentation, licensing, and post-transaction support, including interactions with contractors, food suppliers, and staff hiring. We also offer insights to enhance their overall experience. This comprehensive approach stems from my personal experiences in the industry, providing me with a deep understanding of our clients’ needs.
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What is the best piece of advice you have ever received?
Trust the process, it will take you to your dream destination.
And what is the worst? The worst advice I’ve ever received was to view people merely as business opportunities. I strongly believe in the value of human connections, and I’m grateful that I never adhered to such a dehumanizing perspective. In my approach, building genuine, meaningful relationships with clients is key. This philosophy has not only fostered lasting bonds, but even led to some of my clients becoming like family. I attribute a significant part of our company’s success to these deep-rooted, authentic relationships.
What’s the biggest challenge you have had to overcome?
The dynamics I’ve had to navigate carefully throughout my career involve building and upholding a reputation in Dubai’s unique landscape, as well as assessing who to place my trust in. It’s a rapidly expanding city, yet surprisingly interconnected – almost like a small town in a sense.
What’s planned for the future of the brand.
Expanding Rayven to Saudi, Egypt and the UK, through positive partnerships with people who hold similar values to us.
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