people

Ibby Moubadder

Co-Founder and Executive Director

Ibby is a leading figure in Sydney’s hospitality scene, bringing a number of diverse and unique concepts to market with his decade of experience.

His drive and resilience is a product of his humble roots in Lebanon where he grew up before moving to Sydney at the mere age of eighteen. Taking a visionary approach in everything he does, Ibby has spearheaded the ESCA brand to be one known for its outstanding and memorable venues, for which he continues to lead the growth and development of.

Favourite dish: NOUR’s chicken shawarma

A quote to live by: “Action may not always bring happiness, but there is no happiness without action.”

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Jorge Farah

Co-Founder and Executive Director

Over the past fifteen years, Jorge has been involved in numerous companies holding large accomplishments in the hospitality, retail and financial spaces.

A critical element of ESCA’s prosperity, his devotion and focus on finance, architectural design and business development makes Jorge a driving force not only for the business, but also as a leader for the team that ESCA is built upon.

Favourite dish: Itō’s Kingfish Sashimi

A quote to live by: “Chance favours the prepared mind.”

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Mark Anderson

Food & Beverage Director

Born in Sydney, Mark developed his craft locally learning from some of Australia’s most creative and dynamic bar directors,

before taking on Europe to lead multiple internationally recognised award-winning cocktail bars.

Returning to Sydney, Mark is devoted to pushing the boundaries of ESCA and Australia’s cocktail culture, mentoring our bartending community as the industry continues to reach new creative heights and championing the quality Australian produce we are so lucky to have at our disposal. Mark’s people focused approach and passion for perfection in simplicity compliments our ESCA ethos.

Favourite dish: LILYMU’s prawn katsu sando

A quote to live by: “You have to be odd to be number one.”

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Lara Hurley

Head of People & Culture

Lara brings over 20 years of experience in Sydney’s hospitality industry to her role as Head of People and Culture at ESCA.

A lifelong native of inner-city Sydney and a passionate foodie, she draws inspiration from the vibrant local food scene. Lara firmly believes in the power of teamwork and is committed to cultivating an environment where individuals can thrive. Her leadership philosophy, centered on the idea that “your team is your greatest asset,” drives her approach. With a nurturing style shaped by her experiences as both a leader and a mother, Lara fosters a culture of high performance and engagement, reflecting ESCA’s ethos of unity and excellence. 

Favourite dish: Lilymu’s Kingfish and coconut ceviche, taro, sea grapes

A quote to live by: “Train people well enough so they can leave. Treat them well enough so they don’t want to.”

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Jorge Santos

Group Marketing Manager

With 15 years of expertise in Graphic Design and 5 years as a Marketing Manager in the Australian hospitality industry, Jorge brings a wealth of experience to the team

Hailing from Colombia, Jorge joins ESCA Group with a fresh vision, infusing his graphic and marketing prowess into the group’s endeavours. With a keen eye for detail and a focus on enhancing the guest experience, Jorge combines his Graphic Design degree and MBA in Marketing to craft impactful campaigns. His extensive background spans industries such as retail, education, and health, further enriching his marketing acumen. Dedicated to delivering exceptional marketing strategies, Jorge’s arrival at ESCA Group amplifies the team’s capabilities and fuels their continued success.

Favourite dish: NOUR’s Fremantle octopus

A quote to live by: “Creativity is intelligence having fun.”

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Chris Mul-Howard

Group Operations Manager

With over twenty years of hospitality experience, Chris made the natural transition from General Manager of LILYMU to working in the head office as Group Operations Manager for ESCA.

Originally from Canada, Chris brings a little Canadian hospitality to Australia and has a genuine passion for taking care of people. Experienced in both front of house and back of house operations, Chris is a natural born leader with an eye for detail and treats everyone as if they are being welcomed into his own home.

Favourite dish: LILYMU’s ‘Tom Yum’ prawn dumplings

A quote to live by: “Hospitality, like life, is all about how you make people feel. It’s that simple, and it’s that hard.”

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Paul Farag

Group Executive Chef

Born and raised in Sydney, Paul began his career as an apprentice aged fifteen, and has worked his way up to Executive Chef in his fifteen years in the industry.

On his culinary journey he has been a pioneer of breaking away from the ‘expected’ by blending modern and ancient techniques, to reimagine cuisine in a cutting edge and unique way. Having worked both here and internationally with esteemed chefs like Colin Fassnidge, Josh Niland, and Brent Savage, Paul has strong skills in fish butchery, charcuterie, and whole animal breakdown.

Favourite dish: NOUR’s woodfired coconut basbousa

A quote to live by: “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.”

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David Owen

Group Operations Manager

David has honed his management skills in Sydney and London by overseeing establishments and learning from prominent figures.

His core belief in nurturing a robust foundation through people and training harmonises with ESCA Group’s culture. As an accomplished leader, David dedicates himself to guiding and cultivating his peers for authentic business expansion. His precision in venue management and service, coupled with his discerning palate for food and beverages, render him an invaluable addition to ESCA.

Favourite dish: AALIA’s Lamb neck shawarma

A quote to live by: “Skills can be taught. Character you either have or you don’t have.”

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Natasha Hasna

Group Reservations & Events Manager

With a rich background in hospitality and events, Natasha brings her passion for creating memorable experiences, transforming events into unforgettable moments.

Starting from the bottom, she worked her way up, mastering all aspects of the restaurant industry. Natasha’s journey began in reservations, but her dedication led her to become a skilled event host. From enquiry to execution, she thrives in managing every stage of the event process. With her unwavering passion and attention to detail, Natasha leaves her mark on each event she handles at ESCA Group, ensuring unforgettable moments for all involved.

Favourite dish: AALIA’s Hand Stretched Haloumi

A quote to live by: “You define your own life. Don’t let other people write your script.”

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Gianluca Lonati

Group Executive Chef

Italian-born Luca, hails from Milan, but has made Sydney his home for over a decade.

From his apprenticeship at Michelin-starred Il Teatro in Milan to honing his craft in London’s esteemed establishments, Luca’s experience spans continents. As the former Head Chef of NOUR, Luca infuses his Italian heritage into his cooking and earned acclaim, now serving as Group Executive Chef at ESCA. With over 20 years in hospitality and a lead-by-example work ethic, Luca brings excellence to all ESCA venues, continuing to elevate Sydney’s dining scene.

Favourite dish: NOUR’s Shish Barak

A quote to live by: “Lead by example”

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