Objective:

The Head of Leasing is a strategic leadership role responsible for defining and driving the company's leasing vision and growth across all assets. This position is responsible for leading the overall leasing strategy and execution across all brands and markets, ensuring optimal retail space acquisition, portfolio performance, landlord engagement, and alignment with business expansion objectives.

Key Responsibility:

Leasing Strategy & Leadership

• Drive the development and execution of long-term leasing strategies aligned with brand expansion and financial targets.
• Lead high-value negotiations for new leases, renewals, and terminations across key markets.
• Review and approve Letters of Intent (LOIs), lease proposals, and commercial terms in alignment with group policies.

Market Expansion & Site Planning

• Oversee market research initiatives to identify strategic opportunities for expansion and portfolio optimization.
• Evaluate site feasibility reports, commercial viability, and competitor mapping to support high-return property acquisitions.
• Collaborate with the VP and brand leadership on territory planning and pipeline development.

Portfolio & Performance Management

• Monitor and review key performance indicators such as occupancy cost, rental escalations, lease expiries, and turnover clauses.
• Ensure timely lease renewals, risk mitigation, and alignment of leasing terms with budget forecasts.
• Lead regular portfolio reviews to recommend asset repositioning or divestment strategies.

Stakeholder Engagement & Approvals

• Build and maintain strong relationships with landlords, mall management, brokers, and government authorities.
• Lead cross-functional coordination with legal, lease admin, store design, operations, and finance to ensure timely project delivery.
• Manage internal approval processes and represent leasing matters at executive committee meetings.

Reporting & Governance

• Present periodic leasing performance reports, market benchmarking insights, and strategic recommendations to senior leadership.
• Ensure compliance with internal governance frameworks, including commercial policy, due diligence, and documentation protocols.
• Guide the leasing team on best practices, ethical negotiations, and adherence to corporate standards.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and build a high-performing leasing team across regions and brands.
• Drive training, succession planning, and career development of leasing personnel.
• Promote a performance-driven culture and collaborative team environment.

Desired Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Real Estate, Business Administration, or a related field; MBA preferred.
• 12-15 years of progressive experience in leasing or real estate management, with a minimum of 5 years in a senior or regional leasing role.
• Demonstrated success in managing leasing portfolios across GCC or international markets.
• Expertise in commercial negotiation, market analysis, and stakeholder relationship management.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, lease management systems, and reporting tools.