Store Development Lead — End-to-End Openings

South Block HQ; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

South Block HQ is seeking a Development Manager to lead restaurant store development from site selection to grand opening. You will coordinate Real Estate, Construction, Operations, and external partners to deliver on time and on budget.

You will own the development path, lead design coordination, permitting, and vendor management while building financial models to evaluate opportunities. Regular travel and independent ownership of outcomes are expected.

Qualifications

• This role requires 3+ years of restaurant development, real estate, or commercial property management experience.
• PMP or CAPM certification is strongly desired.
• Experience with AI platforms (ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude) is desirable.
• Proficiency with Google Suite is required.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact between Real Estate, Construction, Operations, Finance, Marketing, landlords, architects, consultants, and municipalities.
• Own the development critical path and partner with Construction on schedules and vendor coordination.
• Lead cross-functional teams through site due diligence, design coordination, permitting, and management.
• Build financial feasibility studies and pro forma models for new restaurant opportunities.
• Cultivate relationships with brokers, architects, contractors, and government officials.
• Ensure zoning and regulatory compliance throughout development.
• Run cross-functional development meetings and resolve issues that impact timelines.
• Keep stakeholders aligned on schedules, budgets, and deliverables.
• Report progress to senior leadership and flag scope changes.

Skills

Communication

Organization

Team collaboration

Travel readiness

Education

B.A./B.S. in relevant field

PMP or CAPM certification

Tools

Google Suite

AI platforms (ChatGPT, Gemini, Claude)

Job description

South Block HQ is seeking a Development Manager to lead restaurant store development from site selection to grand opening. You will coordinate Real Estate, Construction, Operations, and external partners to deliver on time and on budget.

You will own the development path, lead design coordination, permitting, and vendor management while building financial models to evaluate opportunities. Regular travel and independent ownership of outcomes are expected.