Director, Real Estate

At Build-A-Bear we believe in the power of imagination, creativity, and memorable experiences. Our mission is to add a little more heart to life by creating unique experiences, lasting connections, and beloved memories that create lasting emotional connections. We are a multi-channel, site-based experience and entertainment company, with diversified categories and consumer segments. We are seeking a strategic and inspirational Director, Real Estate to join our dynamic team.

The Director, Real Estate is responsible for the implementation of the corporate real estate strategy, negotiating lease terms for new and existing corporately operated retail locations. This role will drive growth, optimize resources, mitigate risks, and enhance our competitiveness, making a significant impact on our retail expansion and performance.

Responsibilities:

• Develop, implement and execute the Real Estate Market Strategy

• Negotiate real estate terms and explore alternative platforms for brand exposure

• Communicate actions with cross-functional teams and monthly Senior Leadership meetings

• Engage with legal team to ensure business terms are accurate and timely lease document turnaround

• Conduct market analysis and research for optimal retail locations

• Negotiate favorable lease agreements meeting corporate real estate goals

• Stay updated on industry trends, market dynamics, and regulatory changes

• Implement cost-saving initiatives and optimize real estate expenses

• Proactively mitigate legal, regulatory, and financial risks

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree

• 5 years retail leasing experience

• Proven track record of successfully executing real estate transactions, including site selection and lease negotiation.

• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in market research, financial analysis, and risk assessment

• Excellent negotiation skills and the ability to build and maintain effective relationships with landlords, developers, and other real estate stakeholders

• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to articulate complex concepts and influence key stakeholders

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience on both the Landlord and Retail real estate side of the business

Behavioral Traits for Success:

• Ability to drive results through the commitment and buy-in of others

• Strong initiative and a strong sense of urgency

• Strategic mindset with the ability to think creatively and identify opportunities for growth and optimization

• Enjoys meeting new people and selling ideas and products

• Thrives in a fast-paced and results-oriented environment

• Self-confident extravert that can enliven, engage, and positively impact individuals and groups

• Able to adapt to change quickly

• Comfortable taking responsibility for decisions

Working Environment:

• Typical office environment with climate control and sufficient lighting, ergonomic desk/chairs

• Corporate Office located St. Louis, MO

• Flexible work schedule

• Travel up to 10%

Your Performance Will Be Measured On:

• Store performance and market trends analysis

• Business relationship development

• Lease management and documentation

• Quality and performance of real estate market strategies

• Quality presentations that are engaging and offer actionable insight

• Understanding of retail financial returns and analysis

• Decision making, judgment and execution

• Stakeholder feedback