International Business Development Manager

ACE Hardware•Oak Brook, IL

2d•$120,000 - $150,000

About The Position

The International Business Development Manager leads growth across assigned global markets by identifying and securing qualified master franchisees, area developers, and licensees capable of multi-unit expansion. The role shapes country-entry strategies, manages complex commercial negotiations, and advances opportunities from initial interest through signed License and Distribution Agreements. It also guides new partners through their first store opening and first year of the relationship, supporting unit performance, royalties, and long-term network growth. The position works closely with Legal, executive leadership, and cross-functional teams, and reports to the Director, Business Development. Preferred work locations are Panama or the United States, with international travel up to 60 percent. The role requires a global business development leader who builds trusted relationships and turns market opportunities into sustainable multi-unit growth. It combines commercial judgment, financial and legal acumen, and cultural awareness to manage complex international partnerships. The position is not eligible for employment visa sponsorship now or in the future.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field.
10 or more years of progressive international business development or global franchise sales experience within a major multi-unit brand.
Proven success securing and closing international licensee or franchise opportunities.
Strong knowledge of retail operations, franchise models, capitalization, financing, and lease negotiations.
Understanding of international franchise regulations, cross-border tax considerations, and currency and financial risk.
Professional fluency in English.
Ability to travel internationally up to 60 percent.
Eligible to work without employment visa sponsorship, as sponsorship is not available now or in the future.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field.
Proficiency in Spanish or another major global language.
Established network of investors, real estate developers, and multi-unit operators, preferably in Latin America.

Responsibilities

Proactively source, evaluate, and secure well-capitalized master franchisees, area developers, and licensees capable of multi-unit growth.
Lead commercial negotiations and execute letters of intent and License and Distribution Agreements in coordination with Legal and executive leadership.
Analyze market data, competitors, regulations, demographics, and financial potential to prioritize countries and develop market-entry strategies.
Manage the opportunity pipeline from initial outreach through approval, financing support, signing, site selection, and first store opening.
Serve as the primary corporate liaison during each new partner’s first year and lead Monthly Performance Reviews.
Monitor store development, unit performance, compliance, and royalty growth while coordinating cross-functional support.
Protect brand equity by identifying and addressing commercial, legal, financial, and operational risks.

Benefits

Incentive opportunities based on role and grade level.
401(k) retirement savings plan with a fully vested matching contribution in the first year, plus quarterly and annual discretionary contributions after eligibility requirements are met.
Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance coverage for employees and dependents.
21 days of vacation immediately available, prorated in the first year, and up to 6 paid holidays depending on hire month.
Company car, phone, and fuel card for field-based positions.
Annual Ace Cares Week and 20 hours of paid volunteer time per year.
Tuition assistance, on-site classes, facilitator-led courses, development, and coaching.
Campus events, including Employee Appreciation Week, vendor demonstrations, cookouts, and merchandise sales.
On-site/mobile services such as spas, auto maintenance, car wash and detailing, dry cleaning, dental and eye care, flu shots, and recycling.
Employee discounts on Ace merchandise, travel, fitness, computers, and other products and services.
Paid birth/adoption bonding time off.
Adoption cost reimbursement.
Employee Assistance Program, including access to therapists and lawyers and guidance on financial matters, elder and childcare, and entertainment tickets.
Identity theft protection.