Job Description

Head of Development - Store Design (Global Restaurant Brand)
Johannesburg (Hybrid, 3 days in-office)
Remuneration: Basic salary negotiable + medical aid, provident fund, group risk cover, and allowances
An established international restaurant brand is looking for a strategic, design-led Head of Development to lead the evolution of its physical store environments across markets and formats. This is a senior leadership role at the intersection of creative vision, customer experience, operational functionality, and commercial strategy.
You'll drive global design standards while tailoring locally relevant restaurant spaces-leading a portfolio of new builds, remodels, and market entries.
Minimum Requirements:
10+ years' experience in retail/hospitality/store design, with 3+ years in a senior leadership role
Proven experience in F&B, QSR, or hospitality design environments
Advanced 2D/3D design and visualisation skills (AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, Enscape, or equivalent)
Deep understanding of customer experience and behavioural design principles
Experience managing multi-site projects and working in global markets
Strong commercial acumen and project management skills
Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and C-suite influencing abilities
Key Responsibilities:
Design & Brand Experience Leadership
Develop scalable, globally consistent yet locally relevant store design concepts
Set and evolve the visual identity of restaurant environments across dining areas, kitchens, and digital touchpoints
Stay ahead of industry trends and apply them meaningfully in physical design
Project Oversight
Manage the full lifecycle of new stores, remodels, and flagship locations from concept to implementation
Approve architectural plans, materials, and equipment design
Maintain and enforce brand standards through a detailed store design playbook
Cross-functional & External Collaboration
Lead collaboration with architects, engineers, shopfitters, and procurement teams
Work closely with Marketing, Operations, Culinary, and Real Estate to align physical environments with broader business goals
Build relationships with local agencies and vendors to deliver high-quality design outcomes
Global Rollout & Continuous Improvement
Adapt global design systems to regional regulations and cultural contexts
Support franchisees with tailored design solutions
Conduct post-launch evaluations and iterate based on feedback and performance
If you're a commercially-minded design leader with a love for restaurant culture and a passion for customer-centered spaces, we'd love to hear from you.