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.\n

Essential Duties and Responsibilities\n

Lease Negotiations and Acquisition\n\nAnalyze market proposals and negotiate lease terms, renewals, and amendments for new and existing retail locations.\nExecute real estate transactions, including leases, Operating Agreements, and Purchase and Sale Agreements.\nEvaluate site-specific considerations such as landlord delivery dates, projected occupancy costs, utility logistics, and tenant improvement allowances.\nNegotiate favorable lease terms to reduce cost and extend tenure on existing properties.\nMaintain accurate documentation and project status updates throughout all development activities.\nServe as a subject matter expert on market planning and growth strategies.\n\n

Project Management \n\nLead the coordination of multiple real estate projects, including new builds, store remodels, closures, and capital improvement initiatives.\nManage project schedules, budgets, and timelines, ensuring successful and timely execution.\nProactively identify and resolve project issues related to operations, timing, or costs.\nCommunicate progress to internal stakeholders, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.\n\n

Construction Oversight\n\nDevelop and manage construction budgets for capital projects, obtaining necessary approvals.\nConduct site visits and surveys to assess build-out readiness.\nOversee compliance with brand standards, lease exhibits, and permitting requirements.\nCoordinate construction schedules with contractors and vendors; attend final inspections with Store Development.\nEnsure all regulatory and permitting approvals are secured before construction starts for corporate store projects.\n\n

Relationship Management \n\nAct as the primary liaison between Store Operations, Franchisees, Real Estate, and internal leadership on assigned projects.\nCollaborate with landlords, architects, developers, design engineers, and general contractors throughout project development.\nPartner with internal teams (Store Design, Legal, Store Development) to align deliverables and achieve project milestones.\nWork with inspectors and regulatory agencies to ensure the timely issuance of permits.\n\n

Education and Experience\n\nBachelor's degree in Construction Management, Business Administration, Real Estate, or a related field.\nMinimum 5 years of experience leading new store development projects in the retail or restaurant industries.\nWorking knowledge of real estate law, lease administration, and construction practices.\nProficient in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace, with strong Excel skills.\nAbility to read architectural plans and interpret construction drawings.\nStrong understanding of franchise models and retail development strategy.\nDemonstrated project management and organizational skills.\nExcellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management capabilities.\nAbility to travel 50\u201380% of the time, including overnight stays and occasional weekends.\n\n

Physical Requirements \/ Work Environment\n

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.\n\nRegularly required to sit, use hands, talk, and hear; occasionally lift up to 20 pounds.\nRequires close vision and extended use of a computer.\nRegular use of standard office equipment (computer, copier, phone, etc.).\nThis role operates in a standard office environment.\n\n

Affirmative Action \/ EEO Statement\n

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.