Director of Real Estate

About the role

As the Director of Real Estate, you will lead The Great Room's expansion across Asia-Pacific. Your responsibilities include developing the end-to-end real estate strategy—from market research and sourcing to deal structuring, negotiations, and executing new locations. This position is highly visible and entrepreneurial, requiring a deep understanding of the commercial real estate landscape, especially in premium office, flexible workspace, or hospitality sectors.

You will collaborate closely with the C-suite, Design & Construction, and Finance teams to ensure each site aligns with our brand, financial objectives, and long-term portfolio strategy.

The Director of Real Estate will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer.

What you'll do

Strategic Market Development & Expansion

• Own and implement TGR's real estate growth strategy across APAC, identifying high-value cities and building a sustainable pipeline of landlords and development partners.
• Design and lead market entry strategies aligned with TGR's brand and financial goals.
• Conduct feasibility studies and market research to support investment decisions.
• Manage the entire deal lifecycle, including sourcing, underwriting, financial modeling, due diligence, legal negotiations, and closing.
• Negotiate terms such as leases and revenue-sharing models that maximize value while maintaining brand integrity.
• Present investment memos and recommendations to the Investment Committee, supported by thorough financial analysis.
• Plan regional expansions, including budgeting, go-to-market strategies, and success metrics to ensure scalability.
• Establish performance benchmarks and evaluate ongoing ROI, adjusting strategies as needed.

Partnerships & Portfolio Growth

• Develop and maintain strategic relationships with landlords, developers, capital partners, and operators.
• Explore portfolio optimization, lease renewals, and expansion within existing assets.
• Represent TGR in external negotiations, industry forums, and as a brand ambassador.
• Improve real estate processes, systems, and reporting frameworks for scalable growth.

Cross-functional Collaboration & Service Integration

• Work with internal teams—Design, Construction, Finance, Legal, Operations, Marketing—to ensure new sites meet commercial, operational, and experiential standards.
• Ensure compliance with local regulations and adherence to risk and governance guidelines.
• Prepare business projections, development budgets, and partnership materials demonstrating commercial viability and brand alignment.
• Support post-deal onboarding, performance tracking, and ongoing management.

Who you are

Requirements

• Degree or master's in finance, economics, real estate, or equivalent qualification.
• 8–12 years of relevant experience in commercial real estate, preferably with exposure to flexible workspace, hospitality, or mixed-use developments.
• Proven track record in sourcing and closing real estate transactions across multiple markets.
• Deep experience in lease negotiations, financial modeling, and investment analysis.
• Established network of key contacts in APAC.
• Leadership experience managing stakeholders across complex projects.
• Strong business acumen and judgment balancing brand, financial, and operational priorities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Self-motivated, solutions-oriented, and entrepreneurial mindset.
• Willingness to travel regionally.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Updated resume and track record required.

Qualities

• Results-driven with ownership and a record of achieving outcomes.
• Strategic thinker capable of big-picture and hands-on work.
• Adaptable, collaborative, and effective across geographies.
• Highly organized with clarity in managing priorities.
• Decisive under pressure, delivering within tight timelines.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Strong analytical and commercial skills for data interpretation.
• Team-oriented leader fostering productive dialogue.