Sarku Japan Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

Sarku Japan has 5 executives leading key functions including strategic operations, corporate governance, administrative management, financial oversight, and executive leadership.

Dedicated to authentic culinary traditions, Sarku Japan prioritizes fresh, high-quality Japanese quick-service dining experiences while expanding market reach across diverse North American regions to ensure consistent brand excellence.

Leadership Roles at Sarku Japan

  • Chief Executive Officer - Saqlain Murtaza
  • Chairman & Chief Executive Officer - James Chim
  • Chief Financial Officer - Peter Koumas
  • President - Dempster Welling
  • Chief of Staff - Dylan Oncken
  • Saqlain Murtaza - Chief Executive Officer

    Saqlain Murtaza, the Chief Executive Officer at Sarku Japan, directs all strategic initiatives focused on scaling the quick-service restaurant footprint. Murtaza oversees the integration of traditional Japanese cooking methods into modern, high-volume retail environments. By analyzing market trends across North America, the Chief Executive Officer optimizes operational workflows to maintain food quality standards. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the board to refine long-term growth objectives. Saqlain Murtaza drives the expansion of the brand by identifying prime locations and streamlining supply chain logistics. Through rigorous performance monitoring, the Chief Executive Officer ensures that every restaurant location meets strict profitability benchmarks. The executive maintains a focus on sustainable growth, ensuring that the company remains a leader in the competitive hospitality sector while delivering consistent value to stakeholders and customers alike.

    James Chim - Chairman & Chief Executive Officer

    James Chim, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer at Sarku Japan, governs the overarching corporate vision and long-term strategic direction. Chim manages the relationship between the executive team and the board, ensuring alignment on all major expansion projects. Overseeing the broader organizational structure, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer architects policies that uphold the integrity of traditional Japanese culinary standards. This role requires deep engagement with international market dynamics to secure the company's competitive position. James Chim drives the development of new service models that enhance customer engagement within the quick-service industry. By fostering a culture of operational excellence, the Chairman & Chief Executive Officer supports the company's mission to provide fresh, accessible meals. The executive monitors financial health and market penetration, ensuring that the organization achieves its ambitious growth targets while maintaining the core values established in 1987.

    Peter Koumas - Chief Financial Officer

    Peter Koumas, the Chief Financial Officer at Sarku Japan, manages the fiscal health and capital allocation strategies for the entire organization. Koumas oversees financial reporting, budgeting, and long-term investment planning to support the company's expansion goals. By analyzing revenue streams from diverse restaurant locations, the Chief Financial Officer identifies opportunities for cost optimization and margin improvement. Peter Koumas drives the financial planning process, ensuring that the company maintains the liquidity necessary for sustained growth. This role involves working closely with the board to provide transparent financial insights and risk assessments. The Chief Financial Officer monitors economic conditions across North America to adjust fiscal strategies as needed. Through rigorous oversight of financial operations, Koumas ensures that the company remains profitable while continuing to invest in the fresh, traditional cooking methods that define the brand's unique market position.

    Dempster Welling - President

    Dempster Welling, the President at Sarku Japan, leads the day-to-day operational activities across the entire restaurant network. Welling oversees the implementation of service standards and quality control measures to ensure a consistent customer experience. By managing regional managers and operational teams, the President drives the execution of the company's growth strategy in the quick-service sector. Dempster Welling focuses on optimizing kitchen efficiency and staff training to uphold the traditional Japanese cooking techniques central to the brand. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Chief Financial Officer to ensure that operational budgets align with performance targets. The President monitors market feedback to refine service offerings and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction. Through active management of the restaurant portfolio, Welling ensures that the company continues to scale effectively while preserving the quality and authenticity that define the brand's reputation.

    Dylan Oncken - Chief of Staff

    Dylan Oncken, the Chief of Staff at Sarku Japan, coordinates cross-departmental communication to ensure seamless execution of corporate objectives. Oncken manages the daily administrative flow, allowing the executive team to focus on high-level strategic initiatives. By facilitating communication between the President and other senior leaders, the Chief of Staff ensures that operational goals remain synchronized with the company's mission. Dylan Oncken drives efficiency by streamlining internal processes and managing special projects that impact the entire restaurant network. This role involves overseeing the implementation of new corporate policies across all regional operations. The Chief of Staff monitors project timelines and resource allocation, ensuring that the organization meets its performance targets. Through meticulous planning and coordination, Oncken supports the executive leadership in maintaining the high standards of service that define the brand's presence in the quick-service restaurant market.

    Explore Leadership Teams in Hospitality

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Sarku Japan Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Sarku Japan?
    Sarku Japan is led by Saqlain Murtaza (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as James Chim (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer) and Peter Koumas (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Sarku Japan’s executive team?
    The executive team of Sarku Japan includes leaders such as Saqlain Murtaza (Chief Executive Officer), James Chim (Chairman & Chief Executive Officer), Peter Koumas (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Sarku Japan have?
    Sarku Japan has 5 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Sarku Japan’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Sarku Japan includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, President, Chief of Staff.