Head of Research and Development

The Development & Entitlement Manager is responsible for driving the entitlement and pre-construction process to achieve the company’s new store opening plan by contributing to the feasibility, entitlement, due diligence and permitting phases. This position manages the acquisition and development processes and strategies for store development, including all aspects of the entitlement process, architecture and engineering coordination, and coordination with landowners and municipalities through the entire permitting process. The Development & Entitlement Manager has the responsibility to oversee the entire entitlement and permitting process within the established timeline.

Creates site specific development schedules for property acquisition and leases, based on local code and permit requirements, conditional use permits, platting, and required third party approvals. Optimizes the speed to construction for a given project.

Supports the Real Estate Managers, Design Managers, and Project Managers in their research for sites, including due diligence, feasibility studies, cost estimates, and floor and site plans.

Coordinates and manages various teams, which may include civil engineers, architects, and geotechnical, environmental, survey, and various other consultants relative to due diligence, entitlements, and permit procurement. Coordinates with other development partners, including Legal, 3rd party developers, landlords, and local jurisdictions and regulatory agencies.

Meets established development timelines by: reviewing master project schedules, ensuring architects and engineers are provided with accurate and timely information, verifying material procurement and delivery are synchronized with schedules, regularly monitoring progress of all projects, visiting sites, and requesting modified completion target dates when necessary.

Communicates effectively with jurisdictions and various public agencies during design review process and entitlements to obtain desired building and site design that meets operational standards. Works on multiple projects concurrently, in varying geographic locations, all of which may be in various stages of the development process.

Builds strong relationships with other functions and plays a critical leadership, coordination, and communication role with all stakeholders including architects, civil, structural, electrical, and mechanical engineers, singular vendors, and other members of the development team.

40% Travel, with some overnight travel. Yearly bonus opportunity*

Full medical, dental, and vision insurance *

On-site fitness center, biometric screen, and flu shot clinic

Paid time off starting at 15 days with 7 federal holidays*

Continuous education assistance and scholarships*

Income protection including Disability, Life and AD&D insurance*

Benefits available for eligible permanent full time associates

Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering, Project Management or equivalent experience required

Minimum five years of development or project management experience, with increasing project management responsibility, preferably in the retail/hospitality environment

Successful completion of initial and periodically required training

Obtaining a valid Food Handler's Card within 30 days of employment is a requirement of this position.

If hired, successful completion of annual store training