General Manager

Objective

As a pivotal leadership role within the organization, the General Manager is tasked with shaping and executing the company’s leasing vision to drive sustainable growth across all assets and markets. This position is instrumental in establishing and implementing a comprehensive leasing strategy that aligns with the company’s expansion goals while ensuring optimal retail space acquisition, portfolio performance, and landlord engagement. The General Manager will oversee high-stakes negotiations, portfolio optimization, and cross-functional collaboration to support the company’s strategic objectives and financial targets.

Key Responsibilities

Leasing Strategy & Leadership

The General Manager will be responsible for developing and executing long-term leasing strategies that are fully aligned with the company’s brand expansion and financial objectives. This includes leading high-value negotiations for new leases, renewals, and terminations across key markets. The role involves reviewing and approving Letters of Intent (LOIs), lease proposals, and commercial terms to ensure they comply with group policies and deliver maximum value.

Market Expansion & Site Planning

To identify strategic opportunities for expansion and portfolio optimization, the General Manager will oversee comprehensive market research initiatives. This includes evaluating site feasibility reports, assessing commercial viability, and conducting competitor mapping to support high-return property acquisitions. Collaboration with the VP and brand leadership will be essential to refine territory planning and develop a robust pipeline of opportunities.

Portfolio & Performance Management

The General Manager will monitor and review critical performance indicators, including occupancy costs, rental escalations, lease expiries, and turnover clauses. Ensuring timely lease renewals, mitigating risks, and aligning leasing terms with budget forecasts will be a core responsibility. Regular portfolio reviews will be conducted to recommend asset repositioning or divestment strategies that enhance overall performance and profitability.

Stakeholder Engagement & Approvals

Building and maintaining strong relationships with landlords, mall management, brokers, and government authorities is a key aspect of this role. The General Manager will lead cross-functional coordination with legal, lease administration, store design, operations, and finance teams to ensure seamless project delivery. Additionally, the role involves managing internal approval processes and representing leasing matters at executive committee meetings to drive informed decision-making.

Reporting & Governance

The General Manager will present periodic leasing performance reports, market benchmarking insights, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership. Ensuring compliance with internal governance frameworks, including commercial policy, due diligence, and documentation protocols, will be a priority. The role also includes guiding the leasing team on best practices, ethical negotiations, and adherence to corporate standards to maintain operational excellence.

Team Leadership & Development

As a leader, the General Manager will be responsible for building, mentoring, and developing a high-performing leasing team across regions and brands. This includes driving training initiatives, succession planning, and career development for leasing personnel. The role will foster a performance-driven culture and collaborative team environment to maximize productivity and innovation.

Desired Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Business Administration, or a related field; MBA preferred.
• 12-15 years of progressive experience in leasing or real estate management, with a minimum of 5 years in a senior or regional leasing role.
• Proven track record in managing leasing portfolios across GCC or international markets.
• Expertise in commercial negotiation, market analysis, and stakeholder relationship management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, lease management systems, and reporting tools.