The Role You will own end-to-end new store development for the Western U.S. region, taking each site from initial market research through grand opening readiness.
This is a highly cross-functional, hands-on role: you will be the single point of ownership for every store from site identification to keys-in-hand.
What You’ll Own (Full Development Lifecycle)
- Market & Trade Area Analysis – Evaluate demographic data, traffic patterns, and competitive landscape to identify priority markets and trade areas across the region
- Site Selection – Source and qualify sites through broker networks and direct outreach; build and manage the pipeline of candidate locations
- Lease Negotiation – Lead LOI negotiation and lease execution with landlords; partner with legal on terms, TI allowances, and occupancy conditions
- Due Diligence – Coordinate site surveys, environmental assessments, title review, and financial modeling to confirm site viability
- Zoning & Entitlement – Navigate municipal zoning requirements, entitlement processes, and public hearings; serve as primary liaison with city planning departments
- Design & Construction – Manage architects, engineers, and general contractors; oversee design deliverables, bidding, budgets, and construction schedules
- Permits & Inspections – Drive the full permitting chain: building permits, fire marshal review, building inspections, and Certificate of Occupancy
- Licensing & Compliance – Secure business licenses, signage permits, and other local regulatory approvals required for operation
- Store Opening Readiness – Coordinate facilities, IT, security systems, and store setup teams to ensure each location passes final inspection and is fully operational on day one
What You Bring
- 8+ years of retail store development / real estate expansion experience in the U.S., with significant multi-site experience
- Deep working knowledge of the Los Angeles and Southern California market — including landlord relationships, broker networks, municipal processes, and entitlement pathways
- Proven track record negotiating retail leases (LOI through execution) on behalf of a national or regional retailer
- Hands-on experience managing design-build projects, general contractors, and permitting workflows in California
- Strong network across SoCal: landlord/broker community, GCs, architects, expediters, and city/county permitting offices
- Native-level English communication skills with strong executive presence
- able to represent the company credibly with landlords, attorneys, and government officials
Retail Store Development Lead (store expansion) in los angeles at Unknown Company
This position is listed as contract and onsite.