Retail Development Director

• Opportunity with major Property Developer in the UAE
• Specialised Development role leading Retail portfolio which reports to C level

About Our Client

Our Client is a major Property Developer in the UAE that has a multi-asset class portfolio consisting of residential, retail, and hospitality.

Job Description

Lead and direct the team to ensure all aspects of retail F&B projects meet our clients' strategic and commercial growth plans. The selected individual is expected to:

• Develop and implement comprehensive strategies for the expansion and improvement of F&B offerings in retail locations, aligning with company goals and market trends.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to align F&B goals with overall business objectives.
• Conduct market research to identify potential locations and target demographics for new F&B outlets within retail spaces.
• Conduct thorough feasibility studies for potential F&B projects, assessing market demand, competition, financial viability, and return on investment (ROI), and present findings and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Oversee retail F&B projects, including development briefs, design monitoring in line with development briefs, feasibility and financial returns, marketing, and transactions, ensuring timely completion, within budget, and meeting quality standards.
• Lead the conceptualization phase of new F&B projects, collaborating with architects, designers, and other consultants to develop innovative and marketable concepts that align with company brand and values.
• Collaborate with CDO, executive leadership, projects, and finance teams to secure project funding, negotiate contracts, and manage the business case throughout the development process.
• Oversee project development from design and construction to pre-opening and launch, coordinating with internal and external stakeholders for execution as per approved RACI matrix.
• Collaborate with procurement to drive negotiations and partnerships with vendors, suppliers, and contractors to ensure high-quality ingredients, equipment, and services.
• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, such as investors, partners, and local authorities, addressing concerns and collaborating for approvals and permits along with the projects team.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and industry standards in F&B establishments, addressing issues if any.
• Identify and mitigate potential risks including regulations and financial risks, and implement risk management strategies to protect the company's interests.
• Provide leadership to develop a cohesive work team, demonstrating the company's core values and creating a positive and collaborative work environment.
• Ensure adequate project resourcing with a culture of forward planning.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, demographic shifts, and competitor activities, to leverage new market opportunities, benchmark against competitors, and make recommendations for market expansion and sustainable growth.

The Successful Applicant

• Required Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Business, Property Development, Urban Planning, Real Estate, Business Management, or related fields with a preference for a Master's.
• Minimum 15 years of experience in F&B management within a retail environment, including project management in the establishment of standalone large retail and F&B spaces or as part of larger mixed-use master plans.
• 7+ years of experience in the Middle East region, working with top UAE real estate companies would be beneficial.
• Excellent financial acumen and understanding of real estate financial analysis, including budgeting, financial modeling, and performance metrics.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements and health standards in F&B operations.
• Strong understanding of customer preferences and industry best practices.

What's on Offer

• Opportunity to work with a leading developer in the UAE.
• Opportunity to work with a highly skilled multinational workforce.
• Career progression.
• Competitive salary and benefits.