Real Estate Manager – Retail

We are a leading multinational company based in GCC, and we are seeking an experienced and results-driven Real Estate Manager – Retail.

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Real Estate Manager to lead our retail portfolio strategy and expansion initiatives across the UAE. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in identifying new store locations, managing lease negotiations, optimizing rental costs, and ensuring alignment between property decisions and business growth objectives.

Key Responsibilities

1. Portfolio Strategy & Expansion Planning

• Develop and execute the company’s retail real estate strategy in alignment with growth targets and brand positioning.
• Conduct market research, demographic analysis, and competitor mapping to identify high-potential locations for new stores.
• Evaluate, prioritize, and recommend relevant sites based on financial, operational, and strategic criteria.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams (Design, Construction, Finance, Legal, Operations) to ensure new locations meet business and brand requirements.

2. Site Acquisition & Leasing

• Manage the full lifecycle of leasing activities across the store portfolio.
• Lead negotiations for new leases, renewals, relocations, and early terminations to secure favorable terms.
• Prepare business cases, feasibility presentations, and approval documentation for senior leadership.
• Build effective working relationships with landlords, property developers, and real estate brokers.

3. Financial Analysis & Performance Management

• Conduct feasibility and ROI analysis for proposed retail sites and expansions.
• Monitor and manage lease obligations, key renewal dates, and rental escalations.
• Identify cost-optimization opportunities to enhance profitability and improve rental expense efficiency.
• Prepare regular portfolio performance and financial impact reports.

4. Stakeholder & Relationship Management

• Maintain strong, professional relationships with landlords, legal advisors, contractors, and regulatory authorities.
• Represent the company in real estate discussions, negotiations, and site visits.

5. Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure all property-related activities comply with UAE real estate laws, local municipality regulations, and permitting requirements.
• Identify and mitigate potential risks related to lease agreements, property use, and store operations.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Real Estate, Finance, or related field.
• 5+ years of relevant experience in retail real estate expansion and lease negotiations in the UAE.
• Strong understanding of UAE retail markets, mall environments, and landlord structures.
• Proven negotiation, analytical, and financial modeling skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Fluency in English required; Arabic is an advantage.

Why Join Us

• Work with a fast-growing retail brand with ambitious expansion plans.
• Strategic and high-visibility role with direct business impact.
• Competitive compensation and career growth opportunities.