Real Estate Manager

Real Estate Manager Chicago, IL $100k - $130k per year

• $100,000 - $130,000 base salary range + annual bonus potential!
• 100% Remote in the United States- residing in Midwest highly preferred. Due to state-specific regulatory requirements, Potbelly does not currently support remote work from the following states: Alaska, California, and Hawaii. To be considered for this position, you must be able to perform the role from a state not listed above at the time of hire and for the duration of employment.

Do you hunger for more? Potbelly Sandwich Shop is looking for friendly and outgoing people who enjoy working in a fast-paced, friendly environment. We are where good vibes and great careers are a way of life! What started as a small antique store in 1977 has become a nationally recognized neighborhood sandwich shop with over 400 locations across the United States. But toasty sandwiches are only as good as the people behind them. And yeah, we've got the best. Ready to join our growing Potbelly Nation?

What's In It For You**:

• Competitive pay with performance-based annual raises!
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Domestic Partnership Benefits
• Paid Parental Leave
• FSA and HSA with Employer Contribution
• Commuter Benefit Program
• Retirement Savings 401(k) WITH company match
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off
• Discount Program
• Flexible Work Schedule
• Career growth opportunities

**If hired, you must meet and maintain all eligibility requirements to qualify**

Job Title: Manager - Real Estate

Department/Function: Legal/Real Estate

Location: Support Center (Remote)

Reports to (Title): VP, Franchise and Corporate Real Estate

Job Level: Full-Time

Job Band: Manager

Exempt

Travel Requirements: Frequently

GENERAL DESCRIPTION

In this multifaceted role, you will operate within a pivotal support function, collaborating closely with the Head of Real Estate to enhance analysis, negotiations, processes, and organizational efficiency. Your expertise will extend beyond mere support, as you will also serve as a valued consultant and collaborator across diverse departments. Furthermore, you will take the reins in identifying and pursuing opportunities, while earning the trust to lead negotiations that align with the company's strategic objectives. Expect to immerse yourself in various dimensions of a rapidly expanding enterprise, encompassing airport and military development, real estate franchising, and an array of other ventures.

FOCUS

Essential Functions

• Conduct comprehensive analyses of real estate transactions using advanced tools and methodologies.
• Provide indispensable support to the Head of Real Estate in negotiation strategies, process refinement, and organizational optimization.
• Collaborate seamlessly with cross-functional teams, offering your insights and guidance on real estate matters.
• Champion a proactive approach to identifying and capitalizing on real estate opportunities that align with corporate strategies.
• Lead negotiations with external parties, safeguarding the company's interests and fostering mutually beneficial agreements.
• Embrace a continuous learning mindset to gain expertise in various aspects of the evolving business landscape, focused on franchise real estate.
• Demonstrate an exceptional level of autonomy and innovation, consistently pushing boundaries and surpassing expectations.

Traits

• Process-oriented
• Strong financial orientation and understanding of what drives long-term financial health of the Company
• Consensus-builder
• Problem-solver/ goal driven
• Thoughtful about balancing short and long-term needs of the organization
• Flexible and open to possibilities, feedback, and the need to alter current plans or approach
• Oriented toward serving others in the organization
• Disciplined

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL FUNCTIONS

• Must have the ability/stamina to work a minimum of 45-55 hours a week
• Will frequently finely manipulate and key in data
• Must be able to engage in problem-solving skills to help identify and solve potential issues in the field.
• Must be able to communicate effectively and efficiently through text, telephone, instant messaging, e-mail, and in-person communications
• Must be able to participate in and conduct presentations in front of an audience (virtual or in-person)

EXPERIENCE AND EDUCATION

• Must represent The Potbelly Way and Our Values
• Bachelor's degree in Real Estate, Business Administration, or a related field. A master's degree is a plus.
• 5 years of experience working alongside franchisees and brokers to identify, negotiate and secure real estate sites to be developed and approved through committee.
• Proven track record in real estate analysis, negotiations, or related roles.
• Proficiency in utilizing modern data analysis tools and software.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, enabling effective collaboration and negotiation.
• Self-motivated with a demonstrated ability to excel independently.
• Innovative mindset with a commitment to exploring novel solutions and approaches.
• Strong organizational skills, capable of managing multiple projects simultaneously.
• Adaptable and open to learning about diverse business areas.

Working Conditions

• Up to 40% travel required
• Must be comfortable working in a fast-paced and collaborative environment

Potbelly Sandwich Works may use artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted tools as part of its hiring and recruitment process. These tools may collect and analyze data including questionnaire and assessment responses, resume content, and professional profile information. AI-assisted tools are used for all position types. All final employment decisions are made by people. Potbelly may also use additional AI-assisted tools from time to time in its hiring process.

If you have questions about how AI is used in connection with your application, or if you would like to request a reasonable accommodation related to the use of AI in the hiring process, please contact View email address on click.appcast.io.

Application Deadline: We accept applications for this position until 9/30/2026. We encourage all individuals to submit their applications.

Potbelly actively creates and promotes an environment that is inclusive of all people and their unique abilities, strengths, and differences. We respect and embrace diversity in each other, our customers, suppliers, and all others with whom we interact as an essential component in the way we do business. Diversity only strengthens our Potbelly vibe, who we are, and how we work.

We're an equal opportunity employer. Each applicant will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law.

Already applied? Go to TalentReef to see your application Position Information

Company: Potbelly Corporate

Position: Real Estate Manager

Status: Full Time

Base Salary Range: $100,000.00 - $130,000.00/yr

Shift: First (Day)

Req #: 11053296

Date Posted: June 22, 2026

Location: Chicago , Chicago,
US,
IL,
60611

Job Category: Corporate