Franchise Business Development Manager (Malaysia)
The Role
We are seeking an experienced professional in Malaysia to lead the development of our franchise network from the ground up. You will be responsible for identifying and onboarding the right franchise partners, guiding them through the entire onboarding process, and ensuring each centre opens in compliance and achieves success. With your deep understanding of Malaysia's enrichment education landscape, operational expertise, and strong network, you will drive the growth of our brand across the region.
Key Responsibilities
Business Development & Franchise Sales
- Prospect, qualify, and secure potential franchise partners across Malaysia (priority: Klang Valley)
- Present the franchise opportunity to prospective partners and lead negotiations to signed agreements
- Build and nurture a pipeline of qualified leads via referrals, expos, education fairs, and your network
- Represent our brand at franchise and education events in Malaysia
Market & Territory Development
- Develop a strategic expansion plan, identifying key locations for new centres
- Conduct local market and competitor analysis within enrichment, tuition, STEM, and arts segments
- Cultivate relationships with property agents, mall management, and local business communities to facilitate site sourcing
Franchisee Onboarding & Launch
- Guide new franchisees through the full pre-opening process — from signing to the first class
- Coordinate with Singapore HQ on curriculum delivery, centre setup, and brand standards
- Support franchisees in recruiting their initial team of teachers and staff
Regulatory & Compliance Navigation
- Manage registration processes with the Ministry of Education Malaysia (KPM) for enrichment/tuition centres
- Assist franchisees with Pusat Tuisyen and enrichment centre licensing at state and local levels
- Handle SSM business registration and local council licensing requirements
- Ensure franchise registration compliance under the Malaysia Franchise Act 1998 (KPDNHEP)
- Keep abreast of regulatory updates affecting private enrichment education in Malaysia
- Liaise with legal counsel on franchise disclosure documents and agreements
What We're Looking For
Must-Have
- 4-5+ years of franchise development experience in Malaysia, ideally within education, enrichment, or children's services
- Proven success in signing franchise partners and launching outlets — hands-on experience, not just advisory
- In-depth knowledge of Malaysian education centre licensing (KPM, Pusat Tuisyen registration, local council approvals)
- Familiarity with the Franchise Act 1998 and KPDNHEP registration procedures
- Strong network within Malaysia's education, parenting, or enrichment communities
- Fluency in English, Bahasa Malaysia, and Mandarin
Preferred
- Experience introducing Singaporean or international education brands into Malaysia
- Background in art, STEM, robotics, or children's enrichment programmes — with credible selling experience
- Existing relationships with mall operators or property agents in Klang Valley
Who You Are
- A natural relationship builder capable of earning franchisee trust and confidence
- A self-starter who can operate independently without a local team, keeping HQ informed
- Commercially driven with a passion for children's education and development
