Experienced Store Improvement Administrator – Manhattan Market Real Estate Development & Portfolio Optimization

Job Description:

Join arenaflex: Shape the Future of Retail Real Estate in One of the World's Most Dynamic Markets

Are you ready to be part of something extraordinary? At arenaflex, we believe that great coffee is just the beginning. Since our founding, we've been on a mission to create a different kind of organization—one that celebrates rich traditions while building meaningful connections with communities across the globe. We're renowned for developing exceptional leaders who share our passion for excellence and are guided by their commitment to serving others. Now, we're looking for a talented Store Improvement Administrator to lead our transformation in the iconic Manhattan market of New York Metro.

This is a remarkable opportunity to play a pivotal role in shaping retail presence in one of the most competitive and fast-paced real estate markets in the world. As our Store Improvement Administrator, you'll be at the forefront of expanding our footprint, optimizing our existing portfolio, and driving strategic initiatives that will define the future of our brand in New York City.

About arenaflex

At arenaflex, we do more than just serve exceptional beverages—we create experiences that bring people together. Our commitment to innovation, community, and sustainable growth has made us a global leader in the retail food and beverage industry. We take pride in fostering a culture that values diversity, inclusion, and professional development. When you join arenaflex, you become part of a team that inspires with every cup and leads with purpose.

Our Manhattan market represents the pinnacle of urban retail strategy, where tradition meets innovation, and every decision carries significant impact. We need a strategic thinker who thrives in dynamic environments and is passionate about real estate development, market planning, and building lasting partnerships.

What You'll Do

As the Store Improvement Administrator for our Manhattan market, you will own and drive the enhancement of our retail presence across New York City's most prestigious neighborhoods. This role demands a unique blend of strategic vision, Relationship-building expertise, and operational excellence.

• Lead New Store Development: Own and manage the growth expectations for new stores across the Manhattan market. You'll work closely with real estate teams, construction partners, and internal stakeholders to identify prime locations, negotiate favorable terms, and ensure seamless store openings that align with our brand standards.
• Portfolio Optimization: Optimize, create, and manage comprehensive strategies for our existing store portfolio. This includes overseeing renovation projects, coordinating store expansions, and orchestrating strategic migrations to better serve our evolving customer base.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and nurture strong internal and external business relationships. You'll collaborate with landlords, real estate developers, community organizations, and cross-functional internal teams to advance our market objectives.
• External Resource Management: Effectively manage external resources including contractors, architects, real estate attorneys, and consultants while ensuring projects stay on schedule and within budget.
• Market Planning: Contribute to overall market planning efforts, including demographic analysis, competitive landscape assessment, and identification of emerging opportunities in the NYC retail market.
• Strategic Initiatives: Drive key initiatives that promote growth and enhance our existing store base. You'll analyze market trends, evaluate performance metrics, and develop actionable recommendations to maximize profitability and customer experience.
• Financial Analysis: Lead financial planning efforts including investment analysis, budget development, and ongoing performance monitoring for your portfolio of projects and stores.

What We're Looking For

We're seeking a professional who brings a unique combination of real estate expertise, financial acumen, and exceptional interpersonal skills. The ideal candidate will flourish in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment and demonstrate resilience in navigating complex negotiations and challenging situations.

Essential Qualifications:

• Extensive NYC Real Estate Experience: Multiple years of proven New York City real estate transaction experience, including lease negotiations, acquisitions, and site selection. You must have a deep understanding of the Manhattan retail landscape, including knowledge of key neighborhoods, market rates, and zoning regulations.
• Land Site Improvement Background: Significant experience in land site improvement projects, including entitlement processes, zoning compliance, and construction coordination. Familiarity with NYC building codes and permitting processes is essential.
• Financial Planning Expertise: Strong background in financial planning and analysis, with particular emphasis on housing market investigation and retail real estate ROI modeling. You should be comfortable developing pro formas, analyzing investment returns, and presenting financial recommendations to senior leadership.
• Public Speaking & Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present confidently to diverse audiences, facilitate meetings, and represent arenaflex in professional settings.
• Adaptability & Problem-Solving: Demonstrated ability to handle uncertainty, adapt to rapidly changing circumstances, and find creative solutions to complex challenges.
• Location: Must live in New York City or the surrounding New York Metro area.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working with national or regional retail brands in the NYC market


• Advanced degree in real estate, finance, business administration, or related field


• Professional certifications such as LEED, CPM, or CCIM


• Knowledge of sustainable building practices and green retail initiatives


• Bilingual capabilities, particularly in Spanish or Mandarin

Skills & Competencies for Success

To excel in this role, you'll need to demonstrate a powerful combination of technical expertise and soft skills:

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to see the big picture while managing intricate details. You must think several steps ahead and anticipate market shifts and competitive movements.
• Negotiation Mastery: Proven negotiation skills with the ability to achieve favorable outcomes while maintaining strong relationships. You should be comfortable negotiating complex lease terms, construction contracts, and partnership agreements.
• Project Management: Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple simultaneous projects, meet tight deadlines, and coordinate cross-functional teams effectively.
• Analytical Excellence: Proficiency in data analysis, market research, and financial modeling. You should be comfortable using technology and software tools to drive insights and decision-making.
• Leadership & Influence: Ability to inspire and motivate both internal teams and external partners. You should be comfortable taking ownership, driving results, and mentoring others.
• Cultural Awareness: Deep appreciation for diversity and inclusion, with the ability to work effectively across different cultures and communities.

Career Growth & Development Opportunities

At arenaflex, your career trajectory is limited only by your ambition. This role offers unparalleled exposure to senior leadership, strategic decision-making, and high-profile projects that will accelerate your professional growth. As you demonstrate success in the Manhattan market, you'll have opportunities to expand your responsibilities, take on larger geographic territories, or transition into related leadership roles within the organization.

We invest heavily in your development through:

• Comprehensive onboarding and mentorship programs


• Continuous learning opportunities through our internal training platforms


• Exposure to cross-functional projects and initiatives


• Networking opportunities with industry leaders and experts


• Regular performance reviews and career planning sessions

Work Environment & Culture

You'll be based in our corporate Midtown Manhattan office, where collaboration and innovation thrive. We embrace a flexible work approach that supports hybrid arrangements, allowing you to work from home 1-2 days per week while maintaining the in-person connections that are essential for relationship building and team collaboration.

Our culture is built on these foundational principles:

• Inclusion & Diversity: We believe that diverse teams make us stronger. We're committed to creating an environment where every voice matters, and partners from all backgrounds feel welcomed and valued.
• Integrity & Transparency: We conduct business with honesty, ethical practices, and transparent communication.
• Customer Centricity: Every decision we make considers the impact on our customers and communities.
• Innovation: We encourage creative thinking and embrace new approaches to solving challenges.
• Work-Life Balance: We support our partners with flexible scheduling and generous time-off policies.

Compensation & Benefits

We recognize that our people are our most valuable asset, and we're committed to providing competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits. While the pay rate for this position is competitive within the industry, our total rewards package extends far beyond base salary:

• Competitive Pay: Industry-leading compensation package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive health coverage with multiple plan options to suit your needs, including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Tuition Assistance: 100% tuition coverage through our Academic Achievement Plan, supporting your continued education and skill development.
• Stock Programs: Eligible for equity participation through our stock reward programs, allowing you to share in arenaflex's success.
• Retirement Savings: Robust savings and retirement planning programs to help you build financial security.
• Flexible Scheduling: Flexible work arrangements and scheduling options to support work-life harmony.
• Paid Time Off: Generous paid time off policies including vacation, personal days, and holidays.
• Partner Perks: Complimentary beverages and food items during shifts, plus exclusive partner discounts.

How to Apply

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and make a meaningful impact in one of the world's most dynamic markets, we want to hear from you! This is your opportunity to join a team of passionate professionals who are transforming the retail landscape in New York City.

To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter through our careers portal. We encourage you to highlight your relevant NYC real estate experience, financial planning background, and any examples of successful store development or portfolio optimization projects you've led.

Join us and inspire with every cup. Apply today and become part of a team that's dedicated to creating meaningful moments and lasting connections in communities across the globe.

arenaflex is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and welcoming workplace. We believe that including partners with diverse backgrounds and experiences enables us to better meet our mission and values while serving customers throughout our global communities. We strongly encourage applications from minorities, women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, veterans, and people with disabilities.