Real Estate Counsel

About the role

We are seeking an experienced Director, Real Estate Counsel to serve as a strategic legal partner supporting the company's expanding real estate portfolio. This role will lead legal oversight for complex commercial real estate transactions, including retail leasing, acquisitions, dispositions, development projects, and property management matters. The ideal candidate combines deep real estate expertise with strong business acumen and the ability to collaborate effectively across multiple functions within a fast-paced, growth-oriented organization.

Responsibilities

• Lead the negotiation, drafting, and interpretation of commercial lease agreements, amendments, renewals, assignments, subleases, and related real estate contracts.
• Provide legal guidance on real estate acquisitions, dispositions, development initiatives, construction matters, and portfolio expansion projects.
• Partner closely with Real Estate, Finance, Store Development, Facilities, and Executive Leadership teams to support strategic growth objectives.
• Evaluate legal risks associated with prospective transactions and develop practical solutions that align with business priorities.
• Manage outside counsel, brokers, landlords, developers, and other external stakeholders throughout the transaction lifecycle.
• Advise on property-related disputes, lease enforcement matters, landlord-tenant issues, and operational real estate concerns.
• Support due diligence efforts, title and survey reviews, zoning analyses, permitting matters, easements, and land use issues.

Qualifications

• J.D. from an accredited law school and active membership in at least one U.S. state bar.
• 10+ years of legal experience with significant focus on commercial real estate transactions.
• Prior experience supporting national retail, consumer products, hospitality, restaurant, fitness, or multi-location businesses preferred.
• Extensive background negotiating high-volume retail leases and real estate agreements.
• Strong understanding of real estate development, construction, zoning, permitting, and land use matters.
• Experience managing outside counsel and coordinating cross-functional stakeholders.