Job Description – New Business Manager
Our client in the retail industry is looking for an experienced and commercially driven New Business Manager to identify, evaluate and secure strategic business opportunities that support the organisation's expansion and long-term growth. The successful candidate will be responsible for sourcing and assessing new sites, building strong relationships with landlords, developers and franchise partners, negotiating commercial agreements, and driving the successful rollout of new business locations. This role requires a proactive individual with strong commercial acumen, exceptional negotiation skills, and a proven background in retail property, business development or franchise expansion.
Key Responsibilities
Identify, evaluate, and secure new business opportunities to expand the organisation's brand presence.
Develop and implement strategies to grow the network through both traditional and non-traditional retail locations.
Conduct comprehensive site assessments, including competitor analysis, demographic research, traffic patterns, brand proximity, and commercial viability.
Build and maintain strong relationships with landlords, developers, franchisees, and other key stakeholders to facilitate successful site acquisitions and developments.
Negotiate lease agreements, rental terms, and renewals to achieve favourable commercial outcomes.
Support franchisees with relocation initiatives and rental reduction negotiations where required.
Prepare detailed business cases, financial models, and investment proposals for new site opportunities.
Deliver professional presentations on brand concepts, trading formats, market segmentation, setup costs, and financial performance to internal and external stakeholders.
Conduct rental benchmarking exercises across brands and trading formats to support informed commercial decisions.
Monitor market trends, consumer behaviour, and emerging retail developments to identify future growth opportunities.
Utilise market intelligence, geospatial information systems (GIS), and business analytics to support strategic site selection and expansion planning.
Coordinate with cross-functional teams to ensure the efficient execution of development projects.
Develop and maintain rollout schedules, proactively identifying and resolving project bottlenecks.
Compile and present detailed reports on site assessments, project progress, and expansion activities.
Ensure regular project review meetings are conducted, with clear action plans and progress tracking.
Maintain compliance with organisational policies, commercial standards, and development procedures throughout the expansion process.
Minimum Requirements
Qualifications
Suitable tertiary qualification in Business, Property, Real Estate, Commerce, or a related field.
A BCom in Business, Property Studies, Property Science, Real Estate, or an equivalent qualification will be advantageous.
Experience
Minimum of 5 years' experience in retail property, commercial real estate, business development, or franchise expansion.
Proven experience identifying, evaluating, and securing commercial retail sites.
Strong track record of negotiating successful lease agreements and commercial terms.
Experience working directly with landlords, developers, and franchise partners.
Previous experience reporting to senior executives or executive management.
Demonstrated success managing multiple development projects simultaneously.
Experience within the retail, franchising, hospitality, or quick service restaurant (QSR) sectors will be highly advantageous.
Knowledge, Skills and Competencies
Strong commercial and financial acumen with the ability to develop and present sound business models.
Excellent negotiation and relationship management skills.
Strong understanding of retail developments, commercial property, and lease agreements.
Ability to interpret technical drawings and development plans.
Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate market data into strategic business decisions.
Exceptional presentation, communication, and influencing skills.
Highly organised with excellent planning and project management abilities.
Strong attention to detail and excellent follow-up skills.
Self-motivated, proactive, and results driven.
Ability to work effectively within cross-functional teams.
Strong problem-solving and strategic thinking capabilities.
Comfortable working in a fast-paced, changing business environment.
Willingness to travel extensively as required.
Additional Requirements
Willingness to travel at short notice for business requirements.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and business reporting tools.
Experience using market analysis, business intelligence, or geospatial mapping tools will be advantageous.
How to Apply
Apply using the following link: https://www.recruitmentmattersafrica.com/careers/?job_id=z5G7h3l6a1kMvyS65NP3c0WqFN1EMIzk7k6wnKHIFrM=
