Director of Franchise Legal Administration

Key Responsibilities

• Direct the administration and lifecycle management of franchise agreements, renewals, transfers, amendments, and terminations.
• Maintain standardized legal processes and documentation controls through BFGs CRM.
• Oversee franchise contract execution and document management systems.
• Ensure the integrity, accuracy, and accessibility of franchise legal records.
• Coordinate preparation, review, distribution, and annual updates of Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs).
• Manage state registration and renewal filings and maintain compliance calendars.
• Monitor federal, state, and international franchise regulatory requirements.
• Partner with internal and external legal counsel to ensure ongoing compliance.
• Administer contract tracking system for franchise-related agreements.
• Ensure timely processing of franchise approvals, renewals, assignments, and ownership transfers.
• Manage legal documentation workflows and retention policies.
• Support audits and due diligence activities related to franchise operations.
• Serve as the primary liaison between Legal, Franchise Development, Finance, Marketing, and Operations teams.
• Provide guidance regarding franchise agreement interpretation and administrative procedures.
• Support franchise onboarding and transition processes.
• Aid in the implementation of legal policies, procedures, and training programs.
• Identify administrative and compliance risks internally and within the franchise system.
• Develop controls and reporting mechanisms to mitigate legal and operational risks.
• Support dispute management, litigation tracking, and regulatory inquiries.
• Maintain governance procedures related to franchise compliance and reporting.
• Lead and develop franchise legal administration staff.
• Establish departmental goals, performance metrics, and process improvement initiatives.
• Manage relationships with internal departments, outside counsel, vendors, and regulatory agencies as needed.
• Develop reports and dashboards related to franchise agreements, compliance status, and legal administration activities.
• Monitor key performance indicators and provide regular updates to senior leadership.
• Analyze trends and recommend improvements to franchise legal operations.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Legal Studies, Paralegal Studies, or a related field required. Juris Doctor (JD) preferred but not required.
• Experience: 4+ years of experience in franchise administration, legal operations, contract management, or franchise compliance. Experience supporting franchisor organizations preferred.
• Demonstrated experience managing legal documentation and compliance programs.
• Prior leadership or people-management experience.
• Experience working with Google Email and Documents, Microsoft Excel, Microsoft Word, and CRM platforms.
• Knowledge & Skills: Strong understanding of franchise laws, regulations, and Franchise Disclosure Documents (FDDs). Expertise in contract administration and legal document management. Knowledge of corporate governance and compliance practices. Strong project management and organizational skills. Excellent written and verbal communication abilities. Proficiency with legal management software, contract lifecycle management (CLM) systems, and document management platforms. Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced franchise environment.
• Preferred Qualifications: Experience with multi-unit franchise systems. Familiarity with domestic franchise compliance requirements. Advanced proficiency in legal operations, workflow automation, and process improvement.