Nobu appoints new general manager
Ales Potocnik has been with the Japanese chain for 15 years starting as a commis waiter after arriving to the UK from Slovenia
Nobu Old Park Lane, one of London’s most famous Japanese restaurants, has announced the appointment of Ales Potocnik as general manager.
With over 15 years of experience serving Nobu London’s regular clientele, Potocnik is well-placed to continue the restaurant’s legacy.
Potocnik built a career in hospitality in Slovenia, the US as well as running restaurants on board Royal Caribbean Cruises. In 2004, he joined the team at Michelin Guide-recommended Sushimama in Ljubljana, where he discovered his passion for Japanese cuisine.
In 2007 he moved to the UK and joined Nobu, where he started as a commis waiter and then progressed quickly to a management position which led him to his current appointment.
Potocnik will now lead on all operational aspects of the business, including its performance, development, staff training, reservations and events.
Speaking about his appointment, he said: “I first heard about Nobu from a sushi chef in my home country of Slovenia – he described it to me as a magical place; somewhere that was breaking boundaries in the world of restaurants.
“So, when I arrived in London in 2008, I went straight to Nobu, interviewed for a job and I’ve never looked back since. 15 years on, I am honoured to be leading the team at Nobu Old Park Lane, and hope to maintain the magic for many years to come.”