Head of Acquisition and Real Estate Development

Head of Acquisition and Real Estate Development Location: Dusseldorf Department: Development Reports to: Chief Development Officer EU About Collins Foods Europe Collins Foods Limited (CFL) is an ASX200 listed company and the largest KFC franchisee in Australia, operating nearly 350 KFC restaurants across Australia and Europe, as well as Taco Bell and Sizzler brands in select markets. Collins Foods Europe (CFE) is headquartered in Amsterdam and supports operations in the Netherlands and Germany, with ambitious plans for further expansion across Europe. Our mission is simple: to deliver exceptional growth and create outstanding dining experiences for our customers. The Role As Head of Acquisition and Real Estate Development, you will lead the strategic expansion of Collins Foods’ footprint across Europe. This is a senior leadership role responsible for delivering a robust pipeline of new store openings in Germany and the Netherlands, while identifying opportunities in new European markets. We are committed to growth, including that we are responsible for all growth in the Netherlands (as corporate franchisee) and will grow 40-70 new units in Germany in next 5 years. You will co-develop and execute the growth strategy, manage a team of Acquisition Managers, and build strong relationships with key stakeholders—internally and externally. From market analysis and site selection to contract negotiations and stakeholder engagement, you will be at the forefront of Collins Foods’ development ambitions. Key Responsibilities Define and lead the acquisition strategy to achieve Collins Foods’ growth objectives in Europe. Provide strategic leadership and support to Acquisition Managers. Drive new store development across existing and emerging markets. Overall responsibility for cross functional development and communication from site development, from prospect to handover to operations. Lead market planning, tradezone analysis and impact assessment approach with market intelligence and commercial planning teams. Collaborate with design and construction teams to support Acquisition Managers and sub-franchisees in contract negotiations with landlords, developers and investors. Build and maintain relationships with external agents, brokers, developers and municipalities to secure growth partnerships and support the overall objectives of Collins development strategy. Represent Collins Foods at industry events, roadshows, and Yum brand meetings. Ensure seamless cross-functional communication from site prospecting to operational handover. Build strong working relationship with Yum as franchisor, as well as internal leadership, to represent store development at all levels of the business. What We’re Looking For Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Business, or a related field. Minimum 10 years’ experience in development roles within retail or hospitality sectors. At least 5 years in a senior management position leading multi-jurisdictional teams. Proven expertise in real estate acquisition and development processes. Strong commercial acumen and strategic thinking skills. Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management capabilities. Fluent in German and English. Resilient, adaptable, and comfortable working in a fast-paced environment. Why Join Us? At Collins Foods, you’ll be part of a dynamic, international organization with ambitious growth plans. We offer: A leadership role with significant impact on our European expansion. Competitive salary and benefits package. Opportunities for professional development and career progression. A collaborative and values-driven culture. Ready to shape the future of Collins Foods in Europe? Apply now and be part of our growth journey and become our new Head of Acquisition and Real Estate Development. You can send your CV and your motivation to sgehner@collinsfoods.eu? Please also include your salary expectations and your earliest possible start date. Questions? Contact Sanne Gehner (Talent Acquisition Specialist) at +31 6 10906491 or via sgehner@collinsfoods.eu.