Franchise Development Director, Europe

A well-established, internationally recognised American consumer brand is entering a major period of growth across Europe. With deep roots in its home market and a fast-scaling presence across Asia, the business is now turning its focus to building out its network of business partners in key European markets.

We're looking for a Development Director, Europe to help shape and lead this expansion. This is a senior, deal-led role central to identifying strong growth partners, evaluating new markets, and guiding the company's long-term development strategy across the region. You'll represent the brand across Europe, build relationships with experienced, well-capitalised operators, and help shape decisions on where and how the business expands into new markets.

This is a strong opportunity for someone with a background in fast-growing, multi-unit consumer or hospitality businesses, who has hands‑on experience building partner networks across different European countries.

Key Responsibilities

• Build and manage a pipeline of qualified, well‑capitalised growth partners
• Lead the full partner recruitment and assessment process
• Represent the brand at relevant industry events and help build awareness in new markets
• Assess new markets, including competitive landscape, economic conditions, and sector trends
• Work cross‑functionally with finance, supply chain, legal, and real estate teams to support market entry decisions
• Prepare clear market overviews and recommendations for senior leadership

Deal Structuring & Negotiation

• Provide recommendations on partnership terms based on market research
• Work with legal and finance on agreements and approval documentation
• Support negotiations through to final signing
• Oversee lead qualification, NDAs, background checks, and candidate tracking
• Provide support and guidance to internal teams involved in the development process
• Ensure candidates move smoothly through each stage of the process

Qualifications & Experience

• Strong experience in a fast-scaling, multi-unit consumer or hospitality business, with practical knowledge of developing European markets
• Strong commercial judgement, communication skills, and experience managing multi‑market growth

Ideal Candidate

You understand fast-growing, multi-unit consumer businesses and have a solid track record developing partner/growth networks across Europe. You're confident working with senior stakeholders, comfortable travelling, and skilled at building strong relationships with experienced operators and investors.

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