Senior Development Manager

Role Overview

Development Responsibilities

• Build and monitor the franchisee pipeline for store openings against the company expansion program.
• Assess competition, trade zones, customer behavior, locations, and asset types for new-store development.
• Own pipeline delivery, communicate progress and blockers, and improve pipeline quantity and quality.
• Challenge the business model to lower hurdle sales for new stores with internal teams and franchisees.
• Keep the restaurant portfolio fresh through remodels and relocations when required.

Franchise and Supplier Leadership

• Improve franchisee capabilities through tools, training, and best-practice sharing.
• Ensure franchisees follow brand standards for new builds and refurbishment programs.
• Steer suppliers, vendors, and consultants to deliver profitable expansion on schedule.
• Coordinate functional approvals and ensure franchise partners meet global equipment standards.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• The role works with real estate, construction, general management, design, operations, restaurant excellence, equipment, franchise, marketing, supply chain, R&D and quality assurance, human resources, and finance teams.
• The role also interacts with franchise general managers, development executives, consultants, vendors, and other business-unit functions.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Urban Planning, Business Administration, Economics, or a related field.
• At least eight years of business development experience in retail with proven retail real estate expertise.
• Strong business and cultural understanding of the Middle East market.
• Strong commercial acumen, project management, communication, critical thinking, analytical, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to influence stakeholders, manage complex transactions with minimal supervision, and handle multiple priorities.

Company Context