Director, Real Estate Counsel — Retail Leasing Leader

Fast Retailing; New York (NY); On-site; USD 200,000 - 220,000; Full time

Job summary

Fast Retailing is seeking a Director, Real Estate Counsel in New York City. You will handle lease negotiations and related real estate matters for UNIQLO and GU in North America within the in-house legal department, reporting to the Vice President, Real Estate Counsel.

The role requires a JD, New York Bar admission, and 3–5 years of retail/commercial leasing experience, with strong drafting and negotiation skills for high-volume deals and complex documents.

Qualifications

• J.D. with excellent academic credentials.
• Bar admission in New York State.
• 3–5 years of legal experience in commercial/retail leasing and related matters.
• Strong drafting, organizational and analytical skills.
• Superior written and verbal communication across all management levels.
• Experience negotiating directly with opposing counsel.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• High degree of accountability and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Draft, revise and negotiate retail leases for Fast Retailing brands and related agreements.
• Manage and prepare ancillary real estate documents (amendments, SNDAs, licenses, estoppel certificates).
• Review lease provisions and construction agreements for business partners in real estate and lease accounting.
• Maintain portfolio due diligence, abstracts and lease term compliance.
• Ensure awareness of penalties, renewal, and exclusives in leases.
• Provide real estate legal support during store development and approvals.
• Resolve disputes with landlords, tenants, subtenants, and contractors.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to assess legal and business risks.

Skills

Drafting

Negotiation

Analytical skills

Communication

Project management

Attention to detail

Education

J.D.

Job description

Fast Retailing is seeking a Director, Real Estate Counsel in New York City. You will handle lease negotiations and related real estate matters for UNIQLO and GU in North America within the in-house legal department, reporting to the Vice President, Real Estate Counsel.

The role requires a JD, New York Bar admission, and 3–5 years of retail/commercial leasing experience, with strong drafting and negotiation skills for high-volume deals and complex documents.