Business Development Manager

The Role:

The Business Development Manager (Leasing and Project Management) is responsible to identify and source potential profitable locations for the expansion of our restaurants in Singapore. This role manages the full property lifecycle, from securing new locations and renovation to overseeing fit-outs, refurbishments, and lease management. Ensuring projects are completed on time, within budget, and aligned with brand standards. As and when necessary, supporting store maintenance audits to assess store and equipment conditions and propose the necessary corrective/preventive action plan to operations team.

Job Responsibilities:

Site Acquisition and Expansion

• Identify, evaluate, and secure new restaurant sites in line with business strategy.
• Conduct site survey and feasibility studies including demographics, footfall, competition and ROI analysis, in-depth assessment of potential and identify the associated business risk
• Negotiate lease agreements and manage relationships with landlords, developers, and property agents.
• Prepare business case proposal for management / committee approval.

Leasing Management

• Manage lease renewals, rent reviews, relocation, and termination.
• Securing sites. documentations – including follow through with landlords on rectification, upgrade & clearing works to be done by landlords prior to handover of site
• Upon confirming site, ensure all necessary documentations for submission to authorities are completed and follow up with relevant parties for approvals.
• Liaising and coordinating with management and relevant external and cross-functional teams prior to securing site for NSO until handover (eg Finance, Legal, Operations, Marketing and Supply Chain) to ensure best practice, timely opening, cost optimization and reduction, promotional preparations and supplies
• Maintain a database of lease agreements, expiries, and rental obligations. Ensure compliance with all lease terms, contracts, and legal and authority requirements.
• Continuously and progressively identify, source and update list on potential sites.

Renovation & Refurbishment of existing stores

• Plan and manage renovation, remodeling, and refurbishment projects across the restaurant network.
• Conduct periodic store condition assessments and recommend upgrades.
• Minimize operational disruptions during renovation projects.
• Deliver projects that enhance customer experience, operational efficiency, and brand image.
• Prepare CAPEX for approval before starting a new project, renovation, and refurbishment.
• List of approved equipment and costing.
• Monitor and track repair cost, asset disposal and write off equipment.
• Keep an updated list of store assets in Operation and in storage.

Maintaining Existing Store

• Overseeing the facility management of all outlets
• Plan scheduled routine store audits/inspections to check and assess store maintenance and upkeep, condition of equipment and installation, etc.
• Support store operations team on the situation and propose the necessary corrective/preventive action plan
• Prepare annual budget allocation for repair and maintenance including for Image & Branding Enhancement.

Strategic Planning & Reporting

• Develop medium and long term expansion and renovation strategies.
• Monitor property and construction market trends for opportunities and cost savings
• Provide regular project progress reports and recommendations to senior management.
• Collaborate cross- functionally with operations, finance, and marketing teams to align projects with business goals.

Other Responsibilities

• Any other task related to restaurant properties , maintenance and leasing as assigned.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in Hospitality/Marketing/Business or equivalent.
• At least 5 years of relevant experience in F&B or retail chain industries.
• Excellent verbal and written communication with ability to engage and influence stakeholders at all levels.
• Familiar with local landlords, retailers and F&B leasing practices.
• Forward-thinking and ability to manage multiple projects efficiently.
• Strong analytical mindset with ability to assess complex situations. Proactive in identifying opportunities and resolving challenges.
• Skilled in negotiation and confident in managing partnerships and vendor relationships.
• Possess own transport and willing to travel.