Sr. Director, Franchise & Store Development

About the Role

Driven by strong growth and a successful national franchise network, Mr. Lube is expanding its development capabilities with the creation of a new leadership role: Senior Director, Franchise & Store Development. This role will be pivotal in accelerating the company's store expansion strategy while implementing innovations and efficiencies throughout the construction lifecycle.

Based at our Mississauga office, the Senior Director will oversee all aspects of franchise recruitment and end-to-end new store development, including early planning, lease negotiation support, construction execution, and post-opening support. This leader will work cross-functionally with internal teams and externally with franchisees, landlords, consultants, and contractors to ensure each store project is completed on time, within budget, and to Mr. Lube's brand and operational standards.

Responsibilities:

Construction Management and Oversight

Planning & Pre-Development

• Review site plans and negotiate landlord/tenant construction responsibilities.
• Develop project budgets and support franchisees with cost and financing inquiries.
• Collect and review landlord documents (site plans, servicing, geotechnical, environmental).
• Support franchisees in assembling development teams and aligning consultants with lease requirements.
• Oversee permit applications and ensure compliance with municipal and environmental regulations.

Tendering & Contracting

• Solicit and review contractor bids to ensure competitive pricing and quality.
• Recommend preferred contractors and finalize construction agreements.
• Conduct site acceptance meetings and confirm site readiness prior to construction start.

Construction Management

• Oversee all on-site construction activities from mobilization through completion.
• Lead regular progress meetings and resolve field issues in coordination with contractors and consultants.
• Manage equipment deliveries, inspections, and quality control.
• Ensure projects are completed safely, on time, and within budget.

Post-Construction & Turnover

• Oversee project close-out, including documentation, warranties, and deficiency resolution.
• Support franchisees with building operations, maintenance, and warranty follow-up.
• Conduct post-project reviews to identify lessons learned and continuous improvement opportunities.

Franchise Development

• Lead the franchise recruitment process, including lead generation, qualifications, onboarding and approvals.
• Foster strong relationships with existing and prospective franchisees to promote brand advocacy and expansion.
• Partner with legal and finance on Franchise Disclosure Document compliance and unit economics.

Critical Design Elements Improvements

• Layout and Workflow
• Building Systems and technology Integration
• Operational Efficiency Integration
• Adaptability and Innovation

Project Management

• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Partner with Real Estate, Property Management, Purchasing, and Finance teams to streamline project execution.
• Maintain a current library of drawings, permits, and construction documentation.
• Assist with ad-hoc construction projects, equipment procurement, and troubleshooting building issues.

Core Competencies & Skills

• Strong knowledge of commercial construction, permitting, and lease negotiations.
• Proven leadership in managing multiple construction projects simultaneously.
• Skilled in budgeting, scheduling, and contractor/vendor management.
• Deep understanding of provincial building codes and development processes.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Experience in franchise or multi-site retail environments is an asset.
• Formal training in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related field preferred.
• Analytical and creative solutions thinker.
• Fluency in French is an asset.
• Willingness to travel across Canada as required.

Qualifications

• Post-secondary education in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, Architecture, or related discipline (or equivalent experience).
• 10+ years of progressive experience in commercial construction, retail development, or franchise expansion.
• Strong knowledge of project delivery methods, cost control, and contractor management.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and deliver multiple concurrent projects.
• Proficiency in MS Office, project management software, and digital file systems.
• Willingness to travel as required across Canada.

About Mr. Lube

Founded in 1976, Mr. Lube pioneered the quick lube industry in Canada. Mr. Lube is the national leader in automotive maintenance services, delivering trusted convenience from coast to coast. We are the leading brand in the industry and continue to grow market share in services such as oil changes, routine automotive maintenance and national tire services and sales.

Since 2012, Mr. Lube has been recognized as one of Canada's Best Managed Companies.

We thank all applicants for their interest, however only those candidates selected for interviews will be contacted.