Job: US Director of Real Estate & Leasing (Fashion retailer)

Company Description

Our client is a dynamic and fast-growing fashion retail group with an established presence in the U.S. retail market. With approximately 100 stores currently in operation and ambitious expansion plans to double this footprint over the next five years, the company is focused on prime retail locations, primarily in major shopping malls, with select street locations in NYC and Chicago. Their stores typically span around 1,000 square feet, delivering a boutique shopping experience within high-traffic areas.

Objective of the Role

The US Director of Real Estate & Leasing will play a critical role in driving the company’s aggressive retail expansion strategy across key U.S. markets. This individual will oversee all aspects of site selection, lease negotiation, and portfolio management while cultivating strong relationships with major mall operators such as Westfield, Brookfield, and Simon. Beyond traditional leasing expertise, the role requires hands-on market analysis, including field assessments to ensure optimal store placement and customer traffic.

Ideal Profile

• Proven track record in real estate expansion within the retail sector, particularly in fashion or specialty retail.
• Extensive experience working with mall operators and a strong network within the commercial leasing industry.
• A balance of strategic vision and hands-on execution, including the ability to personally assess store locations and analyze foot traffic.
• Negotiation skills to secure favorable lease terms while managing a growing portfolio of stores.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced, high-growth environment, with the ability to pivot strategies as needed.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a real estate expansion strategy to support the company’s growth objectives.
• Identify and secure new store locations, focusing on high-traffic malls and select street locations.
• Negotiate lease agreements, renewals, relocations, and terminations in alignment with business needs.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with landlords, mall operators, brokers, and legal teams.
• Conduct on-the-ground market research, including direct observation of foot traffic and customer behavior.
• Collaborate with internal teams, including design, construction, and sales, to ensure smooth store openings.
• Track and analyze market trends, competitive landscape, and leasing opportunities.
• Oversee a small team of real estate managers to support expansion efforts.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in real estate leasing, preferably within the fashion retail industry.
• Established connections with key mall operators such as Westfield, Brookfield, and Simon.
• Strong negotiation skills with a deep understanding of lease structures and financial modeling.
• Ability to travel frequently (up to 50%) to assess locations and meet with stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint for financial analysis and presentations.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a hands-on approach to problem-solving.
• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Real Estate, or a related field; MBA is a plus.

This role presents an exciting opportunity to shape the real estate strategy of a high-growth fashion brand and make a direct impact on its retail footprint.