Vice President of Real Estate (Restaurants) - Leap Brands

Position Overview:

The Vice President of Real Estate will be responsible for overseeing the entire real estate process, from site identification and evaluation to lease negotiation and acquisition. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in commercial real estate, particularly within the restaurant or retail sectors. This role requires a strong understanding of market trends, community engagement, and the ability to work closely with brokers, the franchisor, and local stakeholders to secure the best possible locations for our brand’s growth.

Key Responsibilities:

• Site Identification: Collaborate with brokers, franchisors, and internal teams to identify and evaluate potential sites for new restaurant locations, ensuring alignment with brand standards and strategic growth objectives.
• Market Analysis: Conduct comprehensive market research and analysis to assess the viability of potential sites, including demographic studies, traffic patterns, competition analysis, and economic forecasts.
• Broker Relations: Build and maintain strong relationships with real estate brokers and agents, leveraging their expertise to identify high-potential sites and negotiate favorable terms.
• Community Engagement: Engage with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to understand community needs, secure approvals, and ensure that new locations align with local regulations and cultural considerations.
• Lease Negotiation: Lead negotiations for site acquisitions, leases, and other real estate transactions, ensuring favorable terms and conditions for the franchisee.
• Franchisor Collaboration: Work closely with the franchisor to ensure that site selections meet brand standards and corporate guidelines, and that new locations are successfully integrated into the franchise system.
• Project Management: Oversee the development process from site selection to store opening, coordinating with construction teams, architects, and other vendors to ensure timely and successful project completion.
• Budget Management: Manage the real estate department’s budget, ensuring cost-effective site acquisitions and adherence to financial targets.
• Strategic Planning: Develop and implement long-term real estate strategies that align with the company’s growth plans, ensuring a strong pipeline of future locations.
• Reporting: Provide regular updates to the executive team on real estate activities, market trends, and the status of ongoing projects.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Business Administration, or a related field; advanced degree or relevant certifications (e.g., CCIM, MCR) preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in commercial real estate, with a focus on the restaurant or retail sectors.
• Proven track record of successful site selection, lease negotiation, and project management in a multi-unit environment.
• Strong understanding of market analysis, demographic research, and financial modeling.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to build and maintain relationships with brokers, franchisors, community leaders, and other stakeholders.
• Strategic thinker with the ability to develop and execute long-term real estate plans.
• Experience working in a franchise system is a plus.
• Willingness to travel as needed to evaluate potential sites and oversee project development.

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