Leasing Manager - Retail Growth & Market Development

Citizens•Johnston, RI

13d•$116,000 - $146,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Leasing Manager will support the growth and optimization of Citizens’ retail real estate portfolio, which includes more than 1,000 locations across 15 states and Washington, D.C. The role leads market analysis, site selection, and lease negotiations, and coordinates with cross-functional partners from market strategy through handoff for construction and opening. The position contributes to market expansion, customer accessibility, and long-term business growth. The role is based in either the Westwood, Massachusetts office or Johnston, Rhode Island office. The work schedule is Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with four days in the office and one remote day. Travel is approximately 25% to visit markets, evaluate sites, and develop relationships with local partners. The salary range is $116,000 to $146,000 per year, with an opportunity to earn an annual discretionary bonus. Actual pay depends on factors including budget, work location, and relevant skills and experience. Citizens offers competitive pay, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, retirement benefits, maternity and paternity leave, flexible work arrangements, education reimbursement, wellness programs, and paid time off.

Requirements

Experience supporting multi-site retail growth, market expansion, or commercial real estate initiatives.
Strong understanding of trade area analysis, site selection criteria, occupancy costs, and key retail performance drivers.
Ability to communicate insights from data and influence decisions across diverse stakeholder groups.
Proven ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Strong financial and analytical skills, including the ability to evaluate opportunities and business cases.
Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building capabilities.
Advanced proficiency with Excel and PowerPoint.
Bachelor’s degree.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting the growth of retail, restaurant, hospitality, convenience, or service-based brands.
Experience in store development, real estate and market planning, site selection, leasing and negotiations, retail expansion strategy, new store opening programs, franchise development, or market optimization and portfolio management.
Experience with real estate technology platforms such as Lucernex, Accruent, iOffice, or similar tools.
Master’s degree.
Corporate real estate designations such as MCR or QPCR.

Responsibilities

Identify and evaluate new market opportunities through trade area analysis, demographic research, competitive intelligence, and consumer insights.
Lead site selection for new branch openings, relocations, and network optimization initiatives.
Partner with brokers, architects, and consultants to conduct due diligence and assess location viability.
Develop and present business cases outlining financial impacts, strategic benefits, and market opportunities.
Negotiate lease terms and business points with legal, brokerage, and real estate partners.
Collaborate with design, construction, operations, and business stakeholders to transition sites from acquisition through project execution.
Serve as the primary real estate partner for assigned markets, providing updates and strategic recommendations.
Travel approximately 25% to visit markets, evaluate sites, and build relationships with local partners.