Tamoka at The Ritz-Carlton, JBR, is thrilled to announce David Kelly's promotion to General Manager. With more than 13 years of experience in the hospitality industry, David has played a key role in shaping Tamoka’s success, combining his operational expertise with a dedication to enhancing guest experiences.
Since joining Tamoka as Beverage Manager in 2022, David has upgraded the venue’s beverage offerings with innovative cocktail creations, seasonal menus, and sustainability-focused initiatives. His leadership in training a team of over 40 staff and maintaining impressive cost efficiencies has set a strong foundation for his new role. As a General Manager, David will further enhance Tamoka’s position as one of Dubai’s must-visit destinations.
David Kelly, General Manager, Tamoka commented on his new position: “This promotion is not just a milestone in my career, but also a reflection of the incredible team and culture we’ve built at Tamoka, which is about creating something truly special—not just for our guests, but also for the team. I’m eager to carry forward this ethos of innovation and warmth that defines Tamoka, and I look forward to introducing new elements that celebrate the restaurant’s Caribbean-inspired roots while continuing to surprise and delight our guests.”
Marvin Coelho, Food and Beverage Director, added: “David has been exceptional since joining Tamoka, becoming an integral part of the original team and a central figure in everything that happens. In his new role, David will leverage his extensive beverage background, infectious charm, and creative energy to propel Tamoka to new heights – we can't wait to see what’s next!”
David’s career started in Belfast, where he honed his skills in customer service and operational excellence in high-volume venues. As General Manager of Liquorxxx in Belfast, he successfully launched a Latin American-inspired cocktail bar, boosting customer engagement through innovative campaigns and staff development programs. His passion for mentorship and creativity has been a consistent driving force, contributing to the success of every venue he’s led.
David plans to enhance Tamoka’s vibrant Caribbean-inspired offerings by introducing new initiatives that blend creativity, sustainability, and the exceptional beachfront experience Tamoka is renowned for.