Retail Development Manager

Job Overview

You will manage retail network development for an assigned region, reporting to the Retail Network Director. You will identify viable outlet locations, recruit franchisees and lead outlet revamp, relocation and buyback initiatives. Working with landlords, franchisees and the Project department, you will progress opportunities through assessment, approval, lease signing and project handover to support the company's network growth plans.

Key Responsibilities

1. Maintain the five-year network growth roadmap and assess brand positioning and expansion opportunities in new markets.
2. Identify and screen potential outlet locations using foot traffic, competitor activity, catchment data and financial feasibility analysis.
3. Manage site acquisition from initial assessment and shortlisting through approval submissions and lease negotiation.
4. Prepare complete, accurate business cases for the Retail Network Director and Executive Committee, escalating shortlisted and high-value sites for approval.
5. Manage the franchise recruitment process from lead generation and initial engagement through assessment, administration and signed agreements.
6. Evaluate existing outlets and recommend whether to revamp, relocate or exit, supported by outlet performance and location data.
7. Coordinate franchisee outlet buybacks for conversion to directly operated outlets, with buyback prices subject to Retail Network Director approval.
8. Negotiate commercial terms with landlords, leasing agents and franchisees, and progress lease signing in line with target opening dates.
9. Provide the Project department with a complete site handover package at lease signing to support project planning and delivery.
10. Maintain an accurate regional site pipeline tracker, recruitment records and assessment data, and report progress against agreed milestones.

Job Requirements

1. Bachelor's degree in Business, Real Estate or a related discipline.
2. Minimum six years of experience in retail expansion, site acquisition or business development; experience in multi-site food and beverage or quick-service restaurants is preferred.
3. Strong financial feasibility and catchment analysis skills, with the ability to turn findings into clear commercial recommendations.
4. Proven experience negotiating with landlords, leasing agents and franchisees.
5. Ability to coordinate work across a lean team, manage regional priorities and present recommendations directly to senior leadership.