Director of Brand & Franchise Development - Reach Recruiting

This position is in De Soto, KS; we are considering KS/MO candidates only at this time.

Director of Brand & Franchise Development
Reports To: Executive Director

Job Summary:

The Director of Brand & Franchise Development will be a strategic leader responsible for overseeing the growth and positioning of both the brand and the franchise network for the quick-service restaurant (QSR) organization. This role requires a dynamic individual capable of blending creative brand-building strategies with sound franchise development initiatives, ensuring consistent brand messaging and profitable franchise growth. The Director will also mentor and guide the marketing team, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment that aligns with the company’s growth objectives.

Key Responsibilities:

Franchise Development:

• Growth Strategy: Design and execute a comprehensive franchise growth strategy to identify, recruit, and onboard new franchise partners in targeted markets.
• Franchisee Support: Provide ongoing support and development for franchisees, ensuring they have the necessary tools, resources, and training to successfully operate their units while adhering to brand standards.
• Franchise Compliance: Monitor and enforce compliance with franchise agreements, brand guidelines, and operational standards to ensure brand consistency across all locations.
• Market Expansion: Conduct market research and feasibility studies to identify high-potential regions for new franchise development.
• Partnership Management: Foster relationships with key franchise partners, acting as the main point of contact for strategic discussions, performance evaluations, and contract negotiations.

Brand Development:

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement the long-term brand strategy to drive customer loyalty, awareness, and market differentiation.
• Brand Positioning: Ensure consistent and compelling brand messaging across all touchpoints, including in-store experience, digital platforms, advertising, and customer communications.
• Market Research & Insights: Conduct regular market analysis to identify consumer trends, competitive threats, and opportunities to enhance the brand’s value proposition.
• Innovation & Differentiation: Collaborate with product development and operations to keep the brand competitive and aligned with customer expectations.

Marketing Leadership & Mentorship:

• Mentorship: Act as a mentor to the marketing department, providing leadership, guidance, and development opportunities for team members.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with other departments (operations, finance, product development) to ensure alignment on key brand initiatives and franchise goals.
• Performance Tracking: Establish KPIs and regularly assess the performance of marketing and franchise development efforts, making data-driven adjustments as necessary.

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred.
  
• Experience: Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in brand management, marketing, or franchise development, ideally within the QSR or restaurant industry.
  
• Leadership: Proven track record of leading teams and mentoring talent in a marketing or business development capacity.
  
• Franchise Expertise: In-depth understanding of franchise operations, legalities, and growth strategies.
  
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to think critically and strategically, with experience driving growth in a competitive market environment.
  
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present to stakeholders at all levels.
  

• Strong leadership and mentoring capabilities
  
• Creative thinker with a data-driven approach
  
• Excellent negotiation and relationship management skills
  
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a focus on growth and brand expansion
  
• Ability to work cross-functionally and manage multiple projects simultaneously