The Director of Business Development is responsible for supporting the development department with the franchise recruitment process, overseeing the entire lifecycle from lead generation to the awarding of new franchise agreements. This role focuses on identifying quality candidates, building strong relationships, and ensuring that all franchisees meet the company's high standards. Additionally, the Director will help manage franchisee renewals, transfers, and site selection approvals, ensuring legal compliance and alignment with the company's strategic goals. The Director will collaborate with the internal management team to ensure that newly awarded franchisees receive the training and support needed for success.
Execute the franchise recruiting process, identifying and qualifying quality leads to award new franchise agreements.
Manage the full recruitment lifecycle, from initial research to closing deals with prospective franchisees.
Build and maintain strong relationships with potential franchisees in key target markets, ensuring candidates meet established qualification criteria.
Lead the solicitation of candidates through both traditional and non-traditional sales channels.
Candidate Qualification:
Conduct extensive interviews with candidates to assess their financial, operational, and cultural fit with the company's franchise model.
Review and evaluate franchise applications, financial statements, and background information to determine candidate qualifications.
Legal Compliance & Administration:
Administer franchise contracts and ensure adherence to federal and state franchise sales regulations, including Franchise Disclosure Documents and other legal compliance requirements.
Oversee the disclosure process for prospective franchisees, ensuring transparency and regulatory adherence.
Franchisee Support & Integration:
Assist newly awarded franchisees with pre-opening activities and coordinate with internal teams to implement training and support programs.
Manage ongoing franchisee renewals, transfers, and ensure continuous communication with franchise partners.
Market Development & Strategy:
Collaborate with the Development team to create and implement market development plans, factoring in market penetration, trade area analysis, and site availability.
Establish and communicate site selection criteria to brokers, developers, and landlords, ensuring alignment with company standards.
Lease & Site Selection Approval:
Review and approve leases, ensuring they meet the company's standards on structure, business terms, and rent conditions.
Serve as the final approval point for site selections, ensuring alignment with the company's strategic growth goals.
Market Intelligence & Support:
Gather and analyze market intelligence to enhance the franchise recruiting process and develop informed strategies for market expansion.
Work closely with the marketing department to leverage marketing support and enhance franchisee recruitment.
Requirements: Experience:
5+ years of successful franchise sales experience, with a proven track record of awarding franchise agreements in multi-unit or conversion models.
Strong knowledge of Franchise Disclosure Documents, franchise agreements, and experience in explaining these to prospective candidates.
Skills:
Exceptional sales, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
High energy, positive attitude, and confidence in driving franchise sales.
Strong organizational skills, with the ability to handle multiple projects and work under tight deadlines.
Ability to work independently, as well as collaboratively, to meet franchise development goals.
Additional Qualifications:
Ability to analyze and evaluate financial statements and candidate qualifications.
Solid understanding of legal compliance related to franchise sales and disclosure.
Proficiency in managing lease approval processes and working with real estate brokers.