Director of Restaurant Development Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the dynamic world of hospitality, the role of a Director of Restaurant Development is more pivotal than ever.

As the gastronomic landscape evolves, the demand for strategic leaders who can innovate, expand, and maintain our culinary establishments grows stronger.

But let’s dig a little deeper: What’s truly expected from a Director of Restaurant Development?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core of this role,
• A hiring manager attempting to outline the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the intricacies of restaurant development,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Director of Restaurant Development job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Director of Restaurant Development Duties and Responsibilities

The Director of Restaurant Development oversees the planning and execution of new restaurant openings, expansions, and renovations.

This role involves strategic planning, financial analysis, and project management.

A Director of Restaurant Development’s duties and responsibilities may include:

• Overseeing the strategic planning and execution of new restaurant development and renovations.
• Conducting site assessments for potential new restaurant locations and analyzing market data to identify opportunities for expansion.
• Collaborating with architects, contractors, and other stakeholders to design and build new restaurants or renovate existing ones.
• Developing and managing budgets and timelines for restaurant development projects.
• Ensuring compliance with local zoning laws, health and safety regulations, and other legal requirements.
• Coordinating with internal departments, such as operations, marketing, and finance, to ensure seamless integration of new restaurants into the existing business structure.
• Negotiating leases, contracts, and other agreements with property owners and service providers.
• Researching and implementing new design concepts, technologies, and operational improvements to enhance the customer dining experience and operational efficiency.
• Leading cross-functional teams to successfully complete restaurant development projects.
• Providing regular reports to senior management on project progress, challenges, and outcomes.

 

Director of Restaurant Development Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a visionary Director of Restaurant Development to guide our expansion efforts and enhance the footprint of our brand.

The Director of Restaurant Development will be responsible for identifying new market opportunities, site selection, lease negotiations, and coordinating with construction and operations teams to open new restaurant locations.

Our ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of the restaurant industry, strong negotiation skills, and has a track record in real estate development, preferably within the food and beverage industry.

 

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement growth strategies and plans
• Negotiate leases and contracts with landlords and developers
• Identify and evaluate potential locations for new restaurants
• Coordinate with construction and operations teams to ensure timely openings
• Work with local and regional authorities to ensure compliance with regulations
• Collaborate with marketing and PR teams to promote new openings
• Establish and maintain relationships with industry influencers and key strategic partners
• Oversee and manage a team of development coordinators
• Forecast and track key account metrics (e.g. quarterly sales results and annual forecasts)

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience in real estate development, ideally within the restaurant industry
• Experience in managing and negotiating leases and contracts
• Strong knowledge of local and regional markets
• Excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills
• Strong leadership and organizational abilities
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines
• BSc degree in Business, Real Estate, Hospitality or relevant field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Opportunities for professional development

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Director of Restaurant Development
• Work Environment: Office setting with frequent travel to potential and ongoing project sites.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Vice President of Development.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $120,000 minimum to $200,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Director of Restaurant Development Do?

A Director of Restaurant Development typically works for restaurant chains, hospitality groups, or independently operating restaurants.

They may also serve as consultants to new or existing restaurant businesses.

Their main role is to strategize and execute plans for the growth and expansion of the restaurant business.

This could include identifying potential new locations, market research, competitor analysis, and financial feasibility studies.

They also manage relationships with landlords, developers, brokers, and other key partners in the real estate industry.

Directors of Restaurant Development coordinate with architects, interior designers, and contractors to ensure the design and construction of new restaurants align with the brand’s image and operational requirements.

They work closely with the restaurant’s operational team to ensure the new locations are set up efficiently and effectively.

They also monitor and assess the performance of existing locations, recommending changes or improvements when necessary.

They might also be responsible for negotiating lease renewals or other real estate transactions.

In addition, they may also be involved in concept development for new restaurant brands, which includes market research, brand positioning, menu development, and overall operational strategy.

 

Director of Restaurant Development Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Director of Restaurant Development should possess a range of skills and qualifications to effectively manage and grow the restaurant business, including:

• Proven experience in restaurant operations, ideally with a focus on restaurant expansion and development.
• Outstanding leadership and management skills to lead and inspire a team, create a productive work environment, and maintain staff morale.
• Strong understanding of the restaurant industry trends, market dynamics, and customer preferences to ensure the restaurant remains competitive.
• Excellent business and financial acumen to formulate strategic development plans, oversee budgets, and maximize profitability.
• Effective communication and negotiation skills to interact with landlords, vendors, contractors, and other stakeholders during the process of development and expansion.
• Strong analytical skills to assess potential business opportunities, risks, and return on investment.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously, ensuring each development is completed on time and within budget.
• Problem-solving skills to quickly address any challenges that may arise during the development process.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations, permits, and licensing requirements in the restaurant industry.

 

Director of Restaurant Development Experience Requirements

The Director of Restaurant Development position typically requires a considerable amount of experience in the restaurant industry.

Entry-level candidates in this field usually have a minimum of 5 years of experience.

They may have worked in various roles such as Restaurant Manager, Restaurant Operations Manager, or in other related managerial roles within the industry.

Candidates who have worked for at least 7 to 10 years in the restaurant industry, with progressive responsibility in their roles, are often considered for a Director of Restaurant Development position.

These professionals have usually developed their skills in areas like strategic planning, business development, and financial management.

Moreover, they may have experience in leading new restaurant opening processes, redesigning existing restaurants, and developing strategies for restaurant growth and expansion.

Those with over 10 years of experience in the restaurant industry are typically the most suitable candidates for a Director of Restaurant Development role, as they would have garnered extensive managerial and leadership experience, as well as a deep understanding of the industry’s nuances.

They might have also previously held director-level positions, managing multiple restaurants, or have had a significant role in a restaurant chain’s expansion.

In addition, a degree in business, hospitality management, or a related field is often required, along with demonstrated experience in project management, contract negotiations, and business development in the restaurant or hospitality industry.

 

Director of Restaurant Development Education and Training Requirements

A Director of Restaurant Development typically holds a bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management, Business Administration, or a related field.

They should have a comprehensive understanding of the restaurant industry, including operations, marketing, customer service, and finance.

Some companies may prefer candidates with a master’s degree in Business Administration (MBA) or a related field that highlights a focus on leadership and strategic planning.

Several years of experience in restaurant management or business development is also a crucial requirement for this role, and experience in multiple units or regions is highly desirable.

While not necessary, certification in Franchise Management or a similar certification indicating expertise in business growth and development can be beneficial.

In addition to formal education, this role requires strong leadership, negotiation, and communication skills, and an ability to understand and forecast market trends.

Continuing education in the form of workshops, seminars, and courses relevant to restaurant industry trends and developments can be beneficial for individuals in this role.

 

Director of Restaurant Development Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Director of Restaurant Development is $92,653 (USD) per year.

However, actual earnings can vary significantly depending on factors such as experience, the size and success of the restaurant chain, and the specific geographic location of the role.

 

Director of Restaurant Development Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Director of Restaurant Development need?

The Director of Restaurant Development should have a Bachelor’s degree, preferably in Business Administration, Hospitality Management, or a related field.

A Master’s degree in Business Administration can be an advantage.

Additionally, they should have extensive experience in the restaurant industry, including a substantial period in a managerial or supervisory role.

Strong knowledge of restaurant operations, financial principles, and marketing strategies is also required.

 

What are the daily duties of a Director of Restaurant Development?

A Director of Restaurant Development usually oversees the strategic planning and execution of new restaurant concepts, locations, and improvements.

They also work with cross-functional teams to ensure the profitability and success of the restaurants.

Their daily tasks might include conducting market research, analyzing competitors, identifying potential locations, negotiating with vendors, and collaborating with design and construction teams.

 

What skills does a Director of Restaurant Development need?

This role requires strong leadership skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Excellent communication and negotiation skills are also important, as they will often be liaising with a variety of stakeholders.

Analytical and strategic thinking skills are critical to assess market trends, identify growth opportunities, and make informed decisions that will positively impact the business.

 

What qualities make a good Director of Restaurant Development?

A good Director of Restaurant Development is a strategic thinker who can identify and capitalize on business opportunities.

They are result-oriented and have a track record of meeting or exceeding their objectives.

They are also excellent problem-solvers, able to address challenges and obstacles effectively.

Good Directors have a deep understanding of the restaurant industry, including trends, regulations, and best practices.

 

Is it challenging to hire a Director of Restaurant Development?

As this role requires a unique combination of industry knowledge, business acumen, and leadership skills, finding the right candidate can be challenging.

It’s important to look for candidates with a proven track record in restaurant development or similar roles.

Offering competitive compensation packages, clear career progression paths, and a positive corporate culture can help attract the right talent.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve given you an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at what it really means to be a Director of Restaurant Development.

Surprise!

It’s not just about managing restaurants.

It’s about shaping the future of the culinary scene, one restaurant at a time.

With our handy Director of Restaurant Development job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your move.

But why stop there?

Take a deeper dive with our job description generator. It’s your gateway to precision-tailored job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every decision you make as a Director of Restaurant Development contributes to the bigger picture.

Let’s shape the culinary world. Together.

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