Director of Development

The Director Development is responsible for leading the planning, design, and execution of new developments, renovations, and capital improvement projects across the company's growing portfolio. This role oversees the development process from initial site evaluation through restaurant opening, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and consistent with operational requirements.

Core Responsibilities

• Lead the development process for all new openings, remodels, and capital improvement projects
• Develop and manage project schedules from lease execution through opening
• Establish project priorities while balancing multiple developments simultaneously
• Identify risks and proactively develop solutions to maintain project timelines
• Oversee project budgets and capital expenditures
• Lead the company's interior design function while preserving and evolving each restaurant's identity
• Ensure consistency of brand standards across all locations
• Review and approve design packages, material selections, FF&E, finish schedules, and construction documents
• Partner with Operations and Culinary teams to ensure design supports functionality and guest experience
• Continuously improve design standards and specifications as the company grows

Architecture and Construction Coordination

• Manage relationships with architects, engineers, consultants, landlords, municipalities, and contractors
• Coordinate permitting, plan review, and entitlement activities
• Review construction progress and resolve design related issues throughout the build process
• Ensure projects comply with all applicable building codes and regulatory requirements
• Lead, coach, and develop the internal Development team
• Establish departmental processes and project management standards
• Build scalable systems that support continued organizational growth
• Foster collaboration while maintaining accountability and ownership across the team

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Architecture, Interior Design, Construction Management, Engineering, or related field required
• Minimum 5 years of progressive experience in restaurant, hospitality, retail, or commercial development
• Strong understanding of construction, permitting, architecture, and interior design
• Experience leading cross functional teams
• Excellent organizational, negotiation, and communication skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment
• Proficient in AutoCAD, Sketch Up, Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop and Acrobat), Lumion or Enscape
• Must be willing to travel up to 20-20% of the time as needed
• Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits available
• Generous and flexible Paid Time Off
• Join a growing organization with rapid opportunity for career growth

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work standing and walking for extended periods of time

This organization provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other federal/state protected category.