Job Description

CHAGEE (pronounced CHAH-jee) is a modern teahouse with more than 7,000 locations globally.

We are a global brand with proud roots in Yunnan, committed to bringing people together through tea. CHAGEE is awakening a modern tea movement, grounded in authentic heritage, fueled by cutting edge innovation, and crafted to nourish body and spirit.

Overview:

Elevate your career with CHAGEE as Head of Business Development.

Chagee North America is seeking an accomplished business development leader to drive our strategic expansion across the region. This role will spearhead site selection, real estate negotiations, strategic partnerships, and new market entry initiatives to accelerate Chagee's footprint in North America. The ideal candidate brings deep F&B retail expertise, strong real estate acumen, and a proven ability to execute multi-unit expansion strategies.

Through our stores across China, Asia Pacific, and the United States, we serve a staggering 100 million cups of tea monthly. CHAGEE is excited to expand its presence in the US market. This is your chance to be part of an exhilarating journey as we deliver the taste of authentic tea culture to America.

What you'll do:

Market Expansion & Site Development:

• Lead market analysis and expansion planning to identify high-potential markets and trade areas for Chagee's growth
• Develop and execute site selection strategies, managing the pipeline from site identification through lease execution
• Build and maintain relationships with landlords, developers, brokers, and property owners to secure prime retail locations
• Drive achievement of annual store opening targets while maintaining quality and brand standards

Real Estate & Deal Execution:

• Negotiate lease terms, LOIs, and rental agreements across multiple markets, ensuring favorable economics and strategic positioning
• Manage the due diligence process, including site analysis, demographic studies, traffic patterns, and competitive assessments
• Collaborate with legal and finance teams on deal structuring and approval processes
• Oversee site management and portfolio optimization to maximize ROI

Strategic Partnerships & Network Development:

• Identify and cultivate strategic alliances with shopping center developers, retail partners, and industry stakeholders
• Evaluate alternative growth channels including non-traditional venues, co-location opportunities, and mixed-use developments
• Represent Chagee at industry events and with key real estate partners to enhance brand visibility

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Partner with design, construction, and operations teams to ensure seamless store opening execution
• Work closely with finance on financial modeling, pro forma development, and investment analysis for new locations
• Coordinate with marketing and brand teams to align site selection with market positioning and brand strategy
• Provide market insights and competitive intelligence to inform broader business strategy

Team Leadership & Development:

• Build, mentor, and manage a business development team to support scaling operations
• Establish performance metrics, reporting systems, and processes to drive accountability and results
• Foster a culture of data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement

Experience you need to be successful:

Required Experience & Skills:

• 10-15 years of progressive experience in retail business development, real estate, or multi-unit expansion, with significant F&B, QSR or retail chain experience preferred
• Proven track record of executing 30+ store openings annually with demonstrated P&L impact
• Strong understanding of the North American retail real estate landscape, lease structures, and market dynamics
• Expert-level negotiation skills with experience managing complex real estate transactions
• Analytical mindset with proficiency in financial modeling, site economics, and market analysis
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills across all organizational levels
• This role requires travel across North American markets (approximately 30-40%)

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Real Estate, Finance, or related field required
• MBA or relevant advanced degree preferred

Additional Assets:

• Existing relationships with major retail landlords, developers, or brokers in key U.S. markets
• Experience with rapid expansion in competitive F&B categories (specialty beverage, QSR, fast casual)
• Familiarity with multi-market regulatory requirements and permitting processes

What We Offer:

• Hybrid work schedule for a balanced life
• 401K with company match to secure your future
• Yearly bonus opportunity
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
• On-site fitness center and wellness programs
• Exclusive discounts at our tea locations, theme parks, and gyms
• Generous paid time off starting at 15 days, plus 7 federal holidays
• Opportunities for continuous education and scholarships
• Income protection including Disability, Life, and AD&D insurance
• Bereavement leave for those difficult times

Who You Are:

Join our team and be part of a brand that's as refreshing as our tea! We're excited to see how your talents will help us grow and create memorable experiences for our customers.

The expected salary package for this position is $163,400-$250,000. Your actual base compensation will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on considerations including (but not limited to): relevant knowledge and experience for this position, skills, education, certifications and more.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to be at the forefront of CHAGEE's expansion into the US market. Join us in shaping the future of premium tea culture and creating unforgettable experiences that will captivate American tea enthusiasts. Apply now and be part of something truly extraordinary!

CHAGEE is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

Job Tags

Similar Jobs