Business Entrepreneur - Europe Expansion (CEO, Hot Palette UK)

HOT PALETTE (ASIA PACIFIC) PTE. LTD.; Singapore; On-site; SGD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading F&B brand company is seeking a dynamic leader to drive European market expansion. This role involves identifying market opportunities, leading shop operations, and building partnerships. Candidates should have a track record in international brand expansion and business development. An MBA is preferred but not required.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in market entry and expansion of international F&B brands.
• Experience in direct store operations or market entry preferred.
• Strong commercial acumen, with a focus on business development and partnerships.

Responsibilities

• Identify and evaluate European markets for entry.
• Lead the opening and operation of new shops.
• Build strategic partnerships to enhance market penetration.

Skills

Market entry strategies

Business development

Franchise partnerships

Regulatory navigation

Team management

Education

Bachelor's degree

MBA or equivalent

Job description

Overview

At Hot Palette (Asia Pacific) Pte. Ltd, our mission is to make people smile with our dining experience. We are proud to operate and grow the beloved Pepper Lunch brand worldwide. Today, as one of Asia’s fastest-growing fast-casual brands with over 550 outlets globally, our sizzling hotplates, bold flavours, and DIY dining concept have won the hearts of millions.

As part of our vision, we aim to achieve 1,000 stores in 6 continents, establishing Pepper Lunch as a truly global brand. To realize this ambition, we are seeking a dynamic, entrepreneurial leader to drive this global expansion, with an immediate focus on building our footprint in Europe. This role will be responsible for identifying market entry opportunities, building strategic partnerships, and adapting our brand for local success. This is a hands-on role requiring both strategic planning and execution, including deal-making, market development and operational setup.

Responsibilities

• Identify, evaluate, and prioritize European markets for entry, considering competitive landscape, consumer behaviour, and regulatory environment.
• Lead the opening and operation of direct shops in European markets.
• Build strategic partnerships (e.g., franchise partners, distributors, JV alliances) to accelerate market penetration.
• Develop and execute expansion strategies aligned with group growth objectives.
• Oversee negotiation of contracts, franchise agreements, and business development deals.
• Adapt and position the brand to suit European market dynamics, balancing global identity with local relevance.
• Build, lead, and manage local entrepreneurial teams or partners to drive operational success.
• Work closely with global and regional leadership teams to ensure alignment on strategy, resources, and performance targets.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in market entry and business expansion of international F&B brands in Europe.
• Experience in direct store operations and / or market entry preferred.
• Strong commercial acumen with hands-on experience in business development, partnerships, and deal-making.
• Network of contacts in Europe, with familiarity in navigating regulatory and business environments.
• Bachelor’s degree required; MBA or equivalent preferred.