Job Description

:Job Title: Chief Development Officer
Position Type: Full Time
Working Hours: US hoursAbout Pavago:Pavago is hiring a Chief Development Officer for one of our clients, a rapidly growing franchise brand. This role will lead franchise development from signing through grand opening, managing site selection, construction, permitting, and launch logistics to ensure smooth and timely store openings. We are looking for a proactive, detail-oriented leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and excels at coordinating teams and projects. Join us in helping our client expand their brand and deliver exceptional franchisee support.Responsibilities:

• Guide franchisees from signing to store opening: Act as the main point of contact for new franchisees, ensuring a seamless transition from franchise agreement to grand opening. Provide guidance, set expectations, and coordinate all phases of the development journey.

• Oversee site selection and lease negotiations: Evaluate potential locations using demographic research, traffic data, and market analysis. Partner with real estate brokers and franchisees to secure optimal sites and negotiate favorable lease agreements.
• Coordinate construction and permitting processes: Lead the construction phase by managing contractors, architects, and local officials. Ensure build-outs are completed on time, on budget, and in compliance with all regulatory requirements.
• Manage vendor relationships and procurement: Source and oversee vendors for construction, signage, fixtures, and equipment. Align procurement timelines with project goals and uphold quality and brand standards.
• Facilitate training and operational readiness: Collaborate with training teams to prepare franchisees and staff for launch. Organize training schedules, confirm completion of required courses, and provide pre-opening support.
• Lead grand opening planning and execution: Develop and implement grand opening strategies in partnership with marketing and operations teams. Coordinate promotional events and ensure franchisees are fully prepared for launch day success.
• Track project milestones and performance metrics: Use project management tools to track the progress of each location. Report regularly to leadership on timelines, risks, and key milestones to ensure projects stay on schedule.
• Serve as a trusted liaison for franchisees: Build and maintain strong relationships with franchisees throughout the development process. Address questions, resolve issues quickly, and ensure a positive, high-touch experience.

What Makes You a Perfect Fit:

• Proven expertise in franchise development and retail expansion: Brings a successful track record of guiding multiple franchise or retail locations from signing through to grand opening, with a deep understanding of the development process.
• Highly effective project leadership: Manages complex timelines and stakeholders with precision, ensuring each milestonefrom site selection to launch is delivered on schedule and to standard.
• Strategic and relationship-focused communicator: Builds strong, trusted relationships with franchisees, vendors, and internal teams. Communicates clearly and professionally at every stage of the development lifecycle.
• Self-directed and results-driven: Thrives in fast-paced environments, operating independently while maintaining full accountability for project outcomes.
• Detail-oriented and execution-focused: Demonstrates a strong commitment to quality and accuracy across all aspects of documentation, coordination, and reporting.
• Tech-savvy and systems-minded: Leverages project management tools and tracking systems to streamline operations and drive visibility across franchise development pipelines.
• Solutions-oriented under pressure: Responds confidently to challenges, resolving issues efficiently and keeping progress on track without compromising standards.
• Natural relationship builder with high emotional intelligence: Earns franchisee trust through approachability, reliability, and a service-first mindset ensuring a positive experience from start to finish.

Required Experience & Skills:

• Minimum 5 years of franchise development or retail operations experience: Directly managed the process of opening multiple franchise or retail locations, ensuring smooth transitions from signing through grand opening with minimal oversight.
• Proven expertise in site selection and lease negotiations: Skilled at evaluating potential locations using market research and demographic data, and working closely with brokers and franchisees to secure favorable lease terms.
• Strong background in construction management and permitting: Experienced in coordinating contractors, architects, and franchisees to manage buildouts, secure permits, and ensure compliance with local regulations on time.
• Exceptional project management skills: Able to oversee multiple franchise development projects simultaneously, using project management software to track progress and meet deadlines reliably.
• Effective vendor and contractor management: Capable of sourcing, managing, and maintaining productive relationships with third-party vendors to ensure franchisees have necessary equipment and services for opening.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills: Clear, professional, and personable communicator who builds strong relationships with franchisees, internal teams, and external partners.
• Customer-service oriented with a people-first mindset: Naturally approachable and supportive, focused on delivering a seamless and positive experience for franchisees throughout the development journey.
• Proactive problem solver: Anticipates challenges and takes initiative to resolve issues quickly and efficiently, keeping projects on schedule.

What Does a Typical Day Look Like?As the Chief Development Officer, you will oversee the entire process from when a franchisee signs until their location opens. You will manage site selection, lease negotiations, construction, permitting, and grand opening logistics, ensuring each step moves smoothly and on schedule. Your role involves coordinating with franchisees, vendors, contractors, and internal teams, taking full ownership of project timelines and troubleshooting challenges as they arise. You will support franchisees with training and preparation, lead grand opening efforts, and provide clear, timely updates to executive leadership. Your day is driven by proactive communication, strategic problem-solving, and delivering a seamless development experience for franchisees.Interview Process:

• Initial Phone Call: Engage in a brief conversation to understand your experience and suitability for the role.
• Video Interview: Delve deeper into your professional background and assess your skills in a 30-minute call.
• Final Interview: Have a comprehensive discussion with our client to ensure mutual alignment.

• Background Checks: Conduct swift verification of your references and past employment details.

Ready to Apply?If you're a detail-oriented leader skilled at managing franchise openings from start to finish, we want you. Join us as Chief Development Officer to guide franchisees, oversee site selection, construction, and vendor management, and ensure smooth launches. If you thrive on clear communication, problem-solving, and building strong relationships, apply now to drive our growth and success.

Pavago