This role is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and securing strategic retail locations to support the company's expansion plans. It involves conducting market research, performing site feasibility studies, negotiating lease terms with landlords, and coordinating with internal teams to ensure smooth store development and successful outlet openings. The position plays a critical role in driving the company's retail growth by ensuring new locations are commercially viable and aligned with business objectives.
Responsibilities:
Strategic Site Selection & Feasibility
- Conduct market research and mapping to identify potential retail locations based on target demographics (B40, M40, T20 segments) and competitor presence.
- Perform footfall analysis using digital tools and manual observation to estimate potential capture rates and walk-in traffic.
- Prepare feasibility studies for potential sites, including financial projections, CAPEX estimation, IRR analysis, and payback period evaluation in collaboration with the reporting manager.
Lease & Landlord Management
- Lead negotiations with landlords, property agents, and mall management (e.g., Lotus's, Village Mall, etc.) to secure competitive rental terms and favorable lease conditions such as rent-free fit-out periods.
- Coordinate with legal and internal stakeholders to ensure all lease documentation and business license applications are properly prepared and submitted.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with property agents, developers, and landlords to gain early access to new retail developments and expansion opportunities.
Project Coordination & Store Launch
- Collaborate with the Design & Build team, interior designers, and contractors to ensure store layout and design comply with the company's corporate identity (CI) and operational requirements.
- Ensure regulatory compliance with local authorities to avoid delays in renovation approvals and business license applications.
- Oversee the transition of new outlets from construction completion to operational readiness, ensuring a smooth store opening process.
Documentation & Procurement Coordination
- Maintain proper documentation for all lease agreements and expansion-related records.
- Monitor lease documentation completeness and compliance.
- Prepare and process Purchase Orders (PO) and supporting documents for approval related to new store setup and expansion activities.
- Any other ad hoc duties as assigned by Management.
Job Requirements:
- Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Property Management, Real Estate, Marketing, or related field.
- 35 years of working experience in retail expansion, leasing, property development, or related field. Experience in retail, pharmacy, FMCG, or chain store expansion would be an added advantage.
- Strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills, particularly in dealing with landlords, mall operators, and property agents.
- Good analytical and financial evaluation skills, with the ability to conduct site feasibility studies and interpret commercial data.
- Strong project coordination and organizational skills to manage multiple store expansion projects simultaneously.
- Familiar with local authority processes, business license applications, and renovation approvals.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
- Willing to travel frequently for site visits and expansion projects.