Job Title: Franchise Development Manager

Location: Scottsdale, AZ

Compensation: $80,000 - $100,000

Are you a seasoned professional with a background in restaurant or retail franchise operations and a passion for driving growth? We’re seeking a Franchise Development Manager to join our team in Scottsdale, AZ, and play a key role in expanding our franchise network. This is an exciting opportunity to combine your operational expertise, strategic mindset, and entrepreneurial spirit to help emerging brands thrive.

As a Franchise Development Manager, you’ll lead the charge in identifying and onboarding top-tier franchise candidates, guiding them through the entire development process. From initial outreach to final agreements, you’ll be instrumental in shaping the future of our franchise network. You’ll collaborate with internal teams, leverage market insights, and ensure compliance with legal and brand standards—all while contributing to the growth of industry-defining brands.

Join a company that has been transforming the franchising landscape for over 20 years. Known for scaling emerging concepts into global household names, we are a dynamic, innovative, and collaborative team that values expertise and creativity. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to work alongside industry leaders, make a meaningful impact, and grow your career in a supportive and entrepreneurial environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Franchise Development: Identify and evaluate potential franchisees through various channels, including online marketing, trade shows, referrals, and networking.
• Candidate Guidance: Lead prospective franchisees through every stage of the process, from initial conversations and applications to legal disclosures (FDD), observation days, and final agreements.
• Relationship Building: Build and maintain strong, trust-based relationships with franchise candidates and key stakeholders to foster long-term partnerships.
• Strategic Sales Execution: Develop and implement innovative strategies to achieve growth targets and expand the franchise network.
• Market Insights: Conduct market research to identify growth opportunities, assess trends, and understand the competitive landscape.
• Compliance & Standards: Ensure all franchise development activities align with legal, regulatory, and brand standards.
• Collaboration: Work closely with internal teams, including marketing and operations, to support franchise development and ensure a seamless onboarding experience.
• Performance Analysis: Track and analyze sales performance, providing actionable insights and regular updates to leadership.

What We’re Looking For

• Operational Expertise: Minimum of 5 years of experience in operations, sales, or marketing, preferably in franchising, hospitality, retail, or related industries.
• Proven Success: Demonstrated ability to drive growth through innovative strategies and relationship management.
• Industry Knowledge: Strong understanding of restaurant or retail operations, with experience in franchise systems as a General Manager, Operations Manager, or similar role.
• Exceptional Communication: Outstanding verbal, written, and presentation skills, with the ability to engage diverse audiences.
• Entrepreneurial Spirit: A proactive, self-motivated mindset with a passion for helping businesses succeed.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze data, identify trends, and develop effective strategies.
• Organizational Excellence: Strong time management and organizational skills to handle multiple priorities effectively.

Why Join Us?

• Competitive base salary with significant performance-based earning potential.
• A collaborative, fast-paced, and entrepreneurial work environment.
• The opportunity to work with a company renowned for scaling industry-leading brands.
• Comprehensive benefits and professional growth opportunities alongside a talented leadership team.

How to Apply

Are you ready to take the next step in your career and help aspiring entrepreneurs achieve their dreams? We’d love to hear from you! Send your resume and a thoughtful cover letter detailing your relevant experience to Don Hutcheson don@geckohospitality.com. Let us know why you’re the perfect fit for this exciting opportunity in franchise development.

#ZRDH