Real Estate Manager

Potbelly; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Potbelly is seeking a Manager - Real Estate to enhance negotiations and processes within their support center. This remote role requires a seasoned professional who can work across various real estate ventures while collaborating with cross-functional teams.

The ideal candidate will possess a Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate or Business Administration, along with at least 5 years of relevant experience. The position offers a competitive salary ranging from $100,000 to $130,000, plus bonus potential.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience working with franchisees and brokers for real estate site negotiations.
• Proven track record in real estate analysis or negotiations.
• Self-motivated and independently driven with strong organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive analyses of real estate transactions.
• Provide support in negotiation strategies and process refinement.
• Lead negotiations with external parties for favorable agreements.

Skills

Real Estate Analysis

Negotiation Skills

Communication Skills

Data Analysis Tools

Organizational Skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate or Business Administration

Master’s degree (a plus)

Tools

Modern Data Analysis Tools

Job description

Job Title

Manager - Real Estate

Location

Support Center (Remote) – Must be able to work from a U.S. state that is not Alaska, California, or Hawaii.

Reports to

VP, Franchise and Corporate Real Estate

Job Level

Full‑Time

Salaries

$100,000 - $130,000 base salary + annual bonus potential.

General Description

In this multifaceted role, you will operate within a pivotal support function, collaborating closely with the Head of Real Estate to enhance analysis, negotiations, processes, and organizational efficiency. Your expertise will extend beyond support, serving as a consultant and collaborator across diverse departments, taking the reins in identifying and pursuing opportunities, and leading negotiations that align with the company's strategic objectives. You will work across airport, military, franchise, and other real estate ventures.

Essential Functions

• Conduct comprehensive analyses of real estate transactions using advanced tools and methodologies.
• Provide indispensable support to the Head of Real Estate in negotiation strategies, process refinement, and organizational optimization.
• Collaborate seamlessly with cross‑functional teams, offering insights and guidance on real estate matters.
• Champion proactive identification of opportunities that align with corporate strategies.
• Lead negotiations with external parties, safeguarding the company's interests and fostering mutually beneficial agreements.
• Continuously learn to gain expertise across various aspects of the evolving business landscape, focusing on franchise real estate.
• Demonstrate an exceptional level of autonomy and innovation, consistently pushing boundaries and surpassing expectations.

Traits

• Process‑oriented
• Strong financial orientation and understanding of long‑term financial health
• Consensus‑builder
• Problem‑solver and goal‑driven
• Thoughtful about balancing short and long‑term needs
• Flexible and open to feedback and new approaches
• Service‑oriented towards others in the organization
• Disciplined

Essential Physical Functions

• Must be able to work a minimum of 45‑55 hours a week.
• Must frequently manipulate and key in data.
• Must solve problems to identify and resolve issues in the field.
• Must communicate effectively via text, telephone, instant messaging, e‑mail, and in‑person.
• Must present in front of virtual or in‑person audiences.

Experience and Education

• Must represent the company’s values.
• Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Business Administration, or related field (master’s degree a plus).
• 5+ years of experience working with franchisees and brokers to identify, negotiate, and secure real estate sites through committee approval.
• Proven track record in real estate analysis, negotiations, or related roles.
• Proficiency with modern data analysis tools and software.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• Self‑motivated and independently driven.
• Innovative mindset and commitment to novel solutions.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Adaptable and open to learning across diverse business areas.

Working Conditions

• Up to 40% travel required.
• Must be comfortable in a fast‑paced, collaborative environment.

Hiring Process

Potbelly Sandwich Works may use AI‑assisted tools to support its hiring and recruitment process, collecting and analyzing data such as questionnaires, assessments, resumes, and professional profiles. All final employment decisions are made by people.

Application Deadline

Applications are accepted until 9/30/2026.

Diversity Statement

Potbelly actively creates and promotes an inclusive environment for all people, embracing diversity in abilities, strengths, and differences. We are an equal‑opportunity employer, considering each applicant without regard to race, color, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or any other protected basis.