Assistant Manager, Business Development

In this role, you’ll lead the execution of new market setups, manage relationships with international franchise and joint venture (JV) partners, and collaborate across departments to bring new outlets to life. This position reports directly to the Assistant Director, Marketing & Business Development.DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESFranchise & Market DevelopmentLead and coordinate new overseas market setups, including business incorporation, trademark and office setup/store build-outsOversee the full project lifecycle: construction, procurement, pre-opening training, operational handover, and post-opening supportSupport the review and execution of market-specific legal requirements in collaboration with internal legal teams or external counselDevelop and maintain franchise manuals, including operational and food service SOPs, ensuring consistency and quality across marketsPartner Relationship ManagementAct as the primary liaison between overseas partners and internal teams (Operations, Culinary, Marketing, Supply Chain, etc.)Build strong, collaborative relationships with franchise/JV partners through clear communication and consistent supportAddress partner queries and provide ongoing support to help achieve operational excellence and commercial resultsOrganise and oversee training programs for partner staff across all levels — pre-opening, opening, and ongoingProject Management & ExecutionManage project timelines and track cross-functional deliverables across multiple concurrent market launches.Coordinate effectively with key departments (Design, Construction, Procurement, etc.) to meet launch deadlinesOperational & Commercial SupportSupport the development of business plans, budgets, and launch timelines with new partnersMonitor partner performance and suggest improvements to enhance operational standards and profitability.Oversee procurement and logistics coordination, ensuring efficient cross-border supply chain flowsWork closely with Finance to ensure timely partner payments and assist in reconciliation or follow-up where requiredGeneral & Strategic SupportConduct market research and assist in evaluating new business opportunitiesSupport leadership with internal reporting and presentations following store launchesContribute to internal knowledge sharing by capturing lessons learned and refining workflows for future rolloutsAssist with special projects and strategic initiatives as directed by General ManagerREQUIREMENTSBachelor’s Degree in Business, Marketing, International Business, or a related fieldMinimum 3-6 years of experience in franchise operations, international business development, or a relevant fieldStrong interpersonal and relationship-building abilitiesStrong project management skills and attention to detailAbility to work independently and navigate cross-cultural environmentsWillingness to travel when required