1325 Walnut Ridge Drive, Hartland, WI 53029, USA | Real Estate - 9210 | Full Time | Full-benefits package including medical/dental insurance options, PTO, 401(K), pet insurance, tuition reimbursement program, employee discounts, and more The Real Estate Manager is responsible for managing and executing all aspects of retail site development for new stores, renovations, closures, and repurchases. This role partners cross-functionally with Store Operations, Store Development, and Franchise Owners to ensure project success from lease negotiation through construction completion. The Real Estate Manager serves as a key liaison throughout the development lifecycle, ensuring alignment with brand standards, financial objectives, and strategic goals. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Lease Negotiations and Acquisition + Analyze market proposals and negotiate lease terms, renewals, and amendments for new and existing retail locations. + Execute real estate transactions, including leases, Operating Agreements, and Purchase and Sale Agreements. + Evaluate site-specific considerations such as landlord delivery dates, projected occupancy costs, utility logistics, and tenant improvement allowances. + Negotiate favorable lease terms to reduce cost and extend tenure on existing properties. + Maintain accurate documentation and project status updates throughout all development activities. + Serve as a subject matter expert on market planning and growth strategies. Project Management + Lead the coordination of multiple real estate projects, including new builds, store remodels, closures, and capital improvement initiatives. + Manage project schedules, budgets, and timelines, ensuring successful and timely execution. + Proactively identify and resolve project issues related to operations, timing, or costs. + Communicate progress to internal stakeholders, ensuring alignment with strategic goals. Construction Oversight + Develop and manage construction budgets for capital projects, obtaining necessary approvals. + Conduct site visits and surveys to assess build-out readiness. + Oversee compliance with brand standards, lease exhibits, and permitting requirements. + Coordinate construction schedules with contractors and vendors; attend final inspections with Store Development. + Ensure all regulatory and permitting approvals are secured before construction starts for corporate store projects. Relationship Management + Act as the primary liaison between Store Operations, Franchisees, Real Estate, and internal leadership on assigned projects. + Collaborate with landlords, architects, developers, design engineers, and general contractors throughout project development. + Partner with internal teams (Store Design, Legal, Store Development) to align deliverables and achieve project milestones. + Work with inspectors and regulatory agencies to ensure the timely issuance of permits. Education and Experience + Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Business Administration, Real Estate, or a related field. + Minimum 5 years of experience leading new store development projects in the retail or restaurant industries. + Working knowledge of real estate law, lease administration, and construction practices. + Proficient in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace, with strong Excel skills. + Ability to read architectural plans and interpret construction drawings. + Strong understanding of franchise models and retail development strategy. + Demonstrated project management and organizational skills. + Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management capabilities. + Ability to travel 50–80% of the time, including overnight stays and occasional weekends. Physical Requirements / Work Environment The physical demands required to perform the essential responsibilities of this position are as follows. Reasonable accommodations, if necessary and/or as required by law, will be made available. + Regularly required to sit, use hands, talk, and hear; occasionally lift up to 20 pounds. + Requires close vision and extended use of a computer. + Regular use of standard office equipment (computer, copier, phone, etc.). + This role operates in a standard office environment. Affirmative Action / EEO Statement Applicants and employees are free from discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, pregnancy accommodations, reprisal, other non-merit based factors, or any other protections afforded under state or local laws.