R S Dharmendra (born July 4, 1974) is a distinguished Indian business executive, currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Gigu Hospitality Private Limited. A native of Bangalore, India, Dharmendra completed his early education at St. Joseph’s Indian High School and pursued higher studies at Christ College, laying a strong foundation for his future career in the hospitality industry.
Dharmendra began his professional journey in sales, demonstrating his prowess as a hardcore sales professional with notable stints at Eureka Forbes, where he sold vacuum machines, and later at Dalal Street Journal. His transition into the hospitality sector saw him taking on significant leadership roles. As the Deputy General Manager (DGM) at Kempfort, he successfully managed Toys Kemp, a prominent chain of toy stores across India, for five years.
He further honed his management skills during his 16-year tenure as General Manager (GM) at Amoeba HM Leisure, where he oversaw the operations of a chain of family entertainment centers across the country. His strategic vision and operational expertise culminated in his current role as COO at Gilly’s, a leading chain of restobars, where he has been at the helm for seven years, driving growth and innovation.
In his current role as COO of Gigu Hospitality Private Limited, Dharmendra continues to lead with distinction, supported by his wife, Roopa RD, and their son, Rahul RD. A seasoned veteran in the hospitality industry, Dharmendra is a sought-after speaker and moderator at various industry forums, where he shares his invaluable insights on the evolving dynamics of the hospitality sector. His contributions have made a significant impact, shaping the future of hospitality in India.