QSR Business Development Director (hybrid Watford & Field based)
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We’re looking for a Business Development Director to drive growth across our QSR Division.
Reporting to the Chief Commercial Officer, this role plays a pivotal part in shaping the performance, expansion, and strategic direction of both existing brands, including KFC and Chaiiwala, and newly onboarded franchising opportunities.
You will lead site acquisition, franchisor relationships, and commercial strategy, acting as a key strategic partner in optimising the estate, building new opportunities, and supporting board-level decisions.
This is a high-impact leadership role for someone who thrives on growth, commercial strategy, and operational excellence in a fast-paced QSR environment.
🏨 About Splendid Hospitality Group
We build and operate exceptional properties and restaurant brands across the UK, including:
🏆 Hilton London Bankside
🌟 The Grand Hotel, York
🏨 The UK’s first Four Points Flex by Sheraton, London Euston
🏨 9 IHG hotels, including boutique Hotel Indigos
🏨 6 Accor properties
🍗 38 KFC restaurants
🥙 3 Chaiiwala restaurants
🏥 3 care homes in Sussex
Driven by entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for people, we continue to grow and evolve — creating extraordinary experiences for our guests, teams, and partners.
🔍 The Role
- Lead business development strategy and multi-year growth plans for existing and new QSR brands
- Source, evaluate, and secure new sites, ensuring operational, commercial, and financial excellence
- Build and maintain strong relationships with current franchisors and identify new partners to diversify the portfolio
- Conduct commercial analysis, network planning, investment appraisals, and business case development to inform strategic decisions
- Manage the development pipeline, including due diligence, legal, planning, and negotiations for new sites
- Optimise the estate portfolio by identifying opportunities for expansion, relocation, or closure
- Collaborate with internal teams and external partners, including site finders, property consultants, and landlords
- Influence operational and commercial priorities, contributing to board-level decisions while supporting day-to-day execution
👤 About You
- Proven track record in multi-site QSR or retail development pipelines
- Strong experience working with franchisors and managing commercial relationships
- Expertise in commercial analysis, store network evaluation, and long-term estate planning
- Experience with Yum! Brands / KFC development requirements is desirable
- Excellent negotiation, stakeholder management, and influencing skills
- Knowledge of UK planning laws, lease structures, and commercial property markets
- Strategic, analytical, and commercially minded with strong problem-solving skills
- Confident communicator and relationship-builder, able to operate at all levels
- Motivated, collaborative, and able to lead at pace while managing complexity
- Entrepreneurial mindset with a growth orientation and results-driven approach
💜 Why You’ll Love Working With Us
- A leadership role shaping the growth of a fast-expanding QSR portfolio
- The chance to influence new brand onboarding, franchising strategy, and site acquisition
- Career development and progression within a diverse and dynamic hospitality group
Ready to Join the Splendid Family?
Hit Apply — it only takes a minute.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a conversation to explore your experience and learn more about what makes Splendid a unique place to grow your career.
Splendid Hospitality Group is an equal opportunities employer, committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.