International Development Director - APAC

Position Overview

The International Development Director for the APAC region will spearhead the strategic expansion plan for restaurants across multiple countries. This leadership role entails overseeing the development function, establishing standards for all licensee activities, and achieving both yearly and long-term new restaurant growth objectives. Key responsibilities include collaborating with local franchisees to manage site pipelines, reviewing and supporting site proposals, and guiding regional growth strategies while executing corporate initiatives within the territory.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead strategic planning to define the restaurant development plan across diverse countries, property types, channels, and licensees.
• Partner with General Managers and local licensees to formulate market development strategies.
• Enhance unit-level profitability by collaborating across architecture, finance, and operations teams.
• Establish and prioritize remodel plans regionally and in key markets.
• Guide franchisees in effectively developing reserved territories using market analysis tools such as mapping, hot zone detection, and penetration studies to optimize brand growth.
• Coordinate with senior leaders to manage pipelines involving openings, closures, relocations, and remodels, ensuring resource allocation and progress visibility.
• Implement brand development processes alongside regional and corporate teams including Franchise Administration and Legal departments.
• Monitor and foster a dynamic pipeline for new site development consistent with long-term goals and in collaboration with existing and new licensees.
• Oversee new restaurant site applications involving site reviews, in-market visits, and assist licensees in decision-making frameworks.
• Develop and maintain networks with industry professionals, government bodies, and brokers to secure prime site acquisition opportunities.
• Perform trade area assessments, develop tactical and strategic plans, and select sites to meet sales and growth targets.
• Employ GIS and market mapping technologies to analyze and prioritize market penetration efforts.
• Advise local licensees on occupancy costs, space considerations, and revenue projections to maximize profitability.
• Undertake additional duties or projects as dictated by evolving business needs.

Qualifications and Skills

• Minimum 7 years’ experience in restaurant or retail development or mall management.
• Degree in business or equivalent and/or an MBA, with demonstrated skill in negotiating and analyzing detailed financial proposals.
• Proven leadership experience regionally managing multi-unit consumer-facing franchises.
• Track record of successful brand growth within the quick-service restaurant (QSR) segment, with understanding of retail fit and constraints.
• Ability to deliver results promptly and adapt to dynamic environments.
• Teamwork aptitude with strong influence on cross-functional colleagues.
• Experience creating comprehensive analyses and presentations to support strategic decisions.
• Confidence in presenting strategies and results to senior executives, licensees, and key stakeholders.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Fluent English communication skills, both verbal and written.
• Effective negotiation, collaboration, and influencing skills.
• Creative problem-solving and innovative thinking capabilities.
• Willingness to travel extensively (up to 50%) across Southeast Asia, China, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand.

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

• Works from satellite or home offices and conducts field work at restaurant sites.
• Requires frequent travel and prolonged sitting, telephone use, and computer operation.

Additional Information

The company reserves the right to reassign or amend duties as necessary, with or without prior notice.