Real Estate Manager

Fielmann USA, Inc., a subsidiary of the German family-owned Fielmann Group, entered the US market in 2023 and has established a significant and expanding presence in American vision care. Operating under the Fielmann USA, Inc. umbrella, we bring together Shopko Optical and SVS Vision to create a vision care network of more than 220 locations across 17 states that combines digital innovation with in-person expertise. This multi-channel approach allows us to serve patients through both convenient digital sales channels and traditional optical locations nationwide. With a strong commitment to service and value, we offer comprehensive eye care services, quality eyewear and contact lenses to patients throughout the United States.

Benefits:

• 401K with Match
• Vacation Pay/Personal Day
• Volunteer Time Off
• Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
• Short- Term & Long-Term Disability Insurance
• Unique Voluntary Benefits (i.e. Pet Insurance, Legal Services, Identity Theft Protection)

POSITION SUMMARY:

Lead strategic real estate decisions and transactions across Fielmann USA banners. Identify, evaluate, negotiate and secure locations for new stores, relocations, and expansions, from market strategy and site selection through LOI, lease execution and development handoff. Serve as a primary business negotiator with brokers and landlords and partner closely with legal counsel, Store Planning, Construction, and Finance to ensure approved locations support financial, operational, and opening-date objectives.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

MARKET STRATEGY AND SITE SELECTION •

• Develop comprehensive strategic real estate development plans, aligned with company growth priorities
• Research designated markets to assess fit with market criteria and identify viable locations for new stores, relocations and expansions
• Conduct market and site analysis using SiteSeer and other available real estate analytics and market data
• Coordinate market and site-specific due diligence and organize site visits required for evaluation and approval
• Build and maintain strong brokerage and landlord relationships to source high-quality real estate opportunities

TRANSACTION EXECUTION & LEASE NEGOTIATION

• Initiate and complete real estate transactions associated with new stores, relocations, expansions, and lease term amendments
• Lead negotiations with brokers and landlords on rent, business terms and delivery timing to secure competitive locations
• Negotiate Letters of Interest (LOI), leases, renewals, amendments, and related real estate agreements in partnership with legal counsel
• Coordinate transaction issues through execution and maintain alignment between approved business terms, lease documentation, and development requirement

SITE APPROVAL & FINANCIAL EVALUATION

• Prepare high-quality real estate approval packages using PowerPoint, Site Seer, and supporting market and site data
• Develop and present retail and competitive information for Real Estate Committee review, including aerials, community profiles, major employers, unemployment data, demographics, and sales projections
• Assist with sales projections and financial pro forma analysis to evaluate real estate investment decisions
• Coordinate market and site visits for Senior Leadership review and approval

DEVELOPMENT HANDOFF & CROSS-FUNCTIONAL DELIVERY

• Work closely with Store Planning and Construction on store layouts, landlord delivery conditions, and location-specific development requirements
• Partner with Store Planning, Design, and Construction to support timely governmental approvals, opening delivery dates, and landlord coordination.
• Meet with local government officials, as needed, regarding zoning, permits, and public hearings
• Support analysis of real estate considerations related to potential merger and acquisition targets

EXTERNAL REPRESENTATION & PARTNERSHIPS

• Represent Fielmann USA in discussions and negotiations with brokers, landlords, government officials, and other external real estate partners
• Represent Fielmann USA at relevant meetings, conferences, and conventions

MINIMUM KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE & SKILLS REQUIREMENTS:

• Bachelor's Degree in relevant business field or equivalent work experience; MBA preferred
• 3 - 5 years' experience in commercial real estate with acquisitions and real estate negotiations
• 1 - 3 years' supervisory/management experience
• Experience with new store roll-out strategies desired
• Experience with Site Seer real estate analytics tool desired
• Experience in detailed market/site analysis and financial analysis of real estate investments
• Strong understanding of Midwest markets a plus
• Demonstrated comprehension of real estate deal financials, pro forma financial model for new stores, and critical analytical framework to make effective real estate decisions
• Corporate office real estate transactional experience a plus
• Familiarity with store design, construction and engineering documents and processes
• Knowledge of State, Federal and Local government rules and regulations related to commercial real estate
• Exceptional analytical, problem solving and decision-making skills
• Strong planning and organizational skills
• Demonstrated ability to act decisively and facilitate and implement ideas and solutions
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite of programs

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & WORK REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to effectively communicate at all levels within the organization through written and two-way verbal communication
• Able to sit or stand for extended periods of time
• Able to operate various office equipment (e.g., personal computer, telephone, fax machine, copier, etc.)
• Able to read and write at a high school graduate level
• Able to lift 10 to 20 pounds
• Able to work normal and/or extended (evenings, nights, and weekends) office hours to meet established deadlines
• Able to travel independently to support Company objectives and personal development
• Able to travel extensively (auto, airline, overnight, etc.)

These statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by teammates assigned to this job classification. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required.