Welcome to Mezza Lebanese Kitchen - one of Canada's largest and fastest-growing Lebanese restaurant brands. With 20+ locations across Atlantic Canada and Alberta, expansion underway in Ontario, and international growth in Dubai, UAE, we're not just scaling - we're on the verge of exponential growth.

We've built a brand with depth, proven systems, a loyal customer base, and operational excellence - and now, we're stepping into our next phase of accelerated growth.

We're looking for a Vice President of Franchise Development with the strategic foresight and operational discipline to drive smart, sustainable growth. This role is for a seasoned executive who understands market trends, identifies scalable opportunities, and brings a clear vision backed by data-driven decisions. You think long-term, move with purpose, and know how to align franchise development with broader business goals-delivering not just growth, but the right kind of growth.

You'll drive the national and international expansion of Mezza, identifying and securing franchise partners, mentoring current operators, and owning the growth roadmap with confidence, strategic thinking, and relentless execution.

If you've grown franchise systems before - and are ready to do it again, bigger and better - this is for you.

Key Responsibilities:

• Franchise Growth Strategy: Develop and implement the overall franchise growth strategy, including policies, systems, and market expansion plans aligned with Mezza Lebanese Kitchen's objectives.
• Franchisee Recruitment and Selection: Oversee the franchisee approval process by evaluating and approving candidates identified and recruited by the Director of Franchise Development. Ensure each prospective franchisee aligns with Mezza's brand values, operational standards, and long-term growth strategy.
• Real Estate and Lease Management: Collaborate with franchisees and real estate professionals to select prime locations and lead lease negotiations to secure favorable terms while upholding brand standards.
• Construction and Launch Oversight: Support our internal and external construction partners with the end-to-end process of new locations, working with architects, contractors, and designers to ensure consistency with Mezza's brand specifications.
• Marketing and Brand Development: Support the marketing efforts, internally and with external agencies, to generate strong franchisee leads, maintain a healthy sales pipeline, and represent the brand at key industry events.
• Legal Compliance and Franchise Agreements: Work closely with external legal counsel to draft, negotiate, and ensure full compliance of franchise agreements and disclosure documents.
• Financial Performance Management: Oversee P&L performance for both corporate and franchise locations, focusing on driving profitability, cost control, and same-store sales growth.
• Franchisee Support: Lead regular performance review meetings with franchisees, providing strategic guidance, operational support, and actionable insights to help them meet and exceed financial targets.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field; MBA preferred.
• Proven experience (10+ years) in franchising, preferably within the restaurant or hospitality industry.
• Strong understanding of Canadian franchising laws, regulations, and best practices.
• Excellent leadership and relationship-building skills.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated success in franchise recruitment and market expansion.
• Ability to travel as needed to support franchise operations and expansion.

Why Join Mezza Lebanese Kitchen:

• Opportunity to play a key role in the growth and expansion of a dynamic and fast-growing brand.
• Collaborative work environment with an experienced team and a passion for excellence.
• Competitive salary and performance-based incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Company RRSP plan

Please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your experience and qualifications.

We look forward to hearing from you!