[Hiring] New Business Market Development Manager @ACE Hardware

Role Description

The New Business Market Development Manager (MDM) for SC & NC manages the business development process in their respective region of the country. The goal is to efficiently and systematically increase Ace’s market share via our new store growth strategy.

• Recruit, educate, and motivate potential candidates, including sales, business plan development, and consulting with existing Ace retailers, new investors, and competitor conversion or acquisition candidates.
• Determine when to say ‘yes’ and when to say ‘no’ regarding prospects.
• Execute the technical operating procedures from Interest-to-Application.
• Conduct demographic work, trade potential, sales forecasting, site audits, and expansion area notifications.
• Create proforma and secure approval from all stakeholders.
• Execute the letter of intent (LOI) and assist with securing financing.
• Complete the Ace membership application following Standard Operating Procedures.
• Pursue every opportunity in a market related to potential candidates, open markets, real estate site possibilities, lender relationships, broker relationships, and public relations.
• Create momentum in a market through market diligence and Ace advocacy.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in retailing, franchising, real estate, or market development work.
• College Degree in business preferred but not required.
• Ability to develop, secure, and close a new store and/or conversion opportunity.
• Strong negotiation skills.
• Strong presentation skills to a variety of audiences, including wealthy investors, real estate brokers, lenders, and existing Ace retailers.
• Interpersonal ability to create trust, respect, and understanding.
• Business Acumen – ability to interpret Business Financials.
• Understanding of the lease negotiation process.
• Strong grasp of capitalization and financing opportunities, methods, and processes.
• Understanding of the balance between store density and cannibalization and its ramifications on the Ace brand.
• Franchise intelligence – understanding of “franchise” competitors and how to uniquely position Ace against these investment choices.
• Ability to create strong, respected coalitions with Retail Operations including the Director, Regional Manager, Project Manager, and District Manager.
• Proficient in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Ability to work flexible hours and extensive travel overnight (3-4 days/week).

Benefits

• Incentive opportunities based on role/grade level.
• Generous 401(k) retirement savings plan with a fully vested matching contribution in the first year.
• Comprehensive health coverage (medical, dental, vision, and disability).
• 21 days of vacation immediately available and up to 6 paid holidays.
• Company car, phone, and fuel card for field-based positions.
• Annual Ace Cares Week with 20 hours off work per year to volunteer.
• On-site classes, facilitator-led courses, and a generous tuition assistance program.
• Frequent campus events like Employee Appreciation Week and vendor demos.
• Employee discounts on Ace merchandise and other services.
• Birth/Adoption bonding paid time off and adoption cost reimbursement.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for free visits to therapists and lawyers.
• Identity theft protection.