Retail Expansion Manager

Retail Expansion ManagerDubai, UAE | Full-time | On-siteA fast-growing GCC retail group is looking for an experienced Retail Expansion Manager to lead new store acquisition, leasing, and portfolio growth across the UAE.This is a retailer-side expansion role focused on securing locations for the company’s own stores. It is not a residential brokerage, property management, facilities management, or landlord-side leasing position.The OpportunityThis role offers direct ownership of the UAE expansion pipeline and the opportunity to influence where and how the business grows.You will work closely with senior management, negotiate directly with leading mall owners and developers, and play a key role in major location and investment decisions.Key ResponsibilitiesIdentify and evaluate new retail locations across malls and other high-potential retail destinations.Conduct market mapping, competitor analysis, footfall assessment, and site feasibility.Lead negotiations for new leases, renewals, relocations, expansions, and closures.Negotiate rent, service charges, turnover rent, rent-free periods, fit-out periods, and other commercial terms.Prepare financial business cases covering projected sales, occupancy cost, capital investment, payback, and return on investment.Maintain the expansion pipeline and monitor lease renewals, rental obligations, and portfolio performance.Coordinate with Finance, Legal, Design, Projects, and Operations through site approval, lease signing, and handover.Candidate ProfileMinimum 5 years of direct UAE experience in retail expansion, retail site acquisition, or tenant-side retail leasing.Proven experience acquiring locations for a multi-store retail brand.Strong relationships with UAE mall owners, developers, and leasing teams.Demonstrated experience negotiating retail leases and preparing location feasibility studies.Strong commercial judgment, financial analysis, negotiation, and stakeholder-management skills.Excellent English. Arabic is an advantage.Experience in fashion, beauty, fragrance, specialty retail, or other multi-location consumer businesses is preferred.Why Apply?Take ownership of an active UAE retail expansion pipeline.Work directly with senior decision-makers.Lead negotiations with major mall owners and property developers.Influence high-impact store investment and portfolio decisions.Join a growing regional retail business with continued expansion across the GCC.