INTL: Expansion & Leasing Manager (Retail) - Budapest

Our Client is an international retail operator with an established presence across Europe, continuing to expand its store network across Central & Eastern Europe. As part of this growth, the company is strengthening its regional structure and is looking to hire a Leasing & Expansion Manager who will take ownership of a defined group of markets, driving site acquisition and expansion activities. Leasing & Expansion Manager /Budapest-based/ HU/2604/LEMA Key Responsibilities: Play a central role in the company’s expansion across CEE by identifying, securing, and delivering high-quality retail locations in line with growth targets. Drive market research and mapping activities to identify high-potential locations across existing and new markets. Evaluate potential sites based on visibility, footfall, catchment, competition, and commercial viability. Lead lease negotiations end-to-end, including rent terms, fit-out contributions, and renewal conditions, ensuring commercially sound agreements. Coordinate with legal teams to review lease agreements and ensure compliance with local regulations. Prepare presentations and location analyses to support internal decision-making and board approvals. Manage the lifecycle of existing locations, including lease renewals, relocations, and closure of underperforming sites. Prepare financial assessments for new locations and renewals, including investment assumptions, sales potential, and payback expectations. Act as a liaison between real estate, construction/design, and operations teams to ensure smooth store openings. Travel across the region as required to assess opportunities and support negotiations. We're looking for someone who has: 5-10 years of experience in retail expansion, leasing, or development within Hungary and ideally the CEE region. Strong knowledge of the CEE retail market, including key landlords, brands, site selection strategy, and core commercial drivers behind location performance. Ability to run financial evaluations and support decision-making with data. Strong stakeholder management and negotiation skills. Strong analytical skills, complemented by proficiency in MS Office and familiarity with SAP. Native Hungarian language, proficient in English. What's on offer: A highly competitive salary package that recognizes your experience and skills, with scope for additional bonuses based on performance. A comprehensive benefits scheme that supports your well-being and professional development, ensuring a balance between work and personal life. The chance to play a key role in the strategic expansion of a leading retail brand, with extensive travel opportunities across the CEE region and beyond. Interested candidates are encouraged to send their updated CV and Expansion/Leasing Project Portfolio for further details about the position and project to: razvan.badea@propertytalents.com We reserve the right to contact candidates whose profiles closely match the role requirements.