Director, Real Estate

Work Is Sweet!

Quality without Compromise is not just a motto at See's Candies. It is the most important ingredient in our recipe for success. See's Candies has been in business since 1921 and maintains a reputation for producing the highest quality candy and providing superior customer service. See's is a leader in the confectionary industry with over 250 retail shops across the USA. We are seeking friendly, enthusiastic individuals who are passionate about providing great customer service.

Job Description Summary

Position Summary The Director of Real Estate leads the strategic planning, acquisition, leasing, and management of See's retail and holiday shop portfolio across the U.S. and Facilities. This role is responsible for optimizing occupancy costs, ensuring compliance with lease standards, and maintaining strong relationships with landlords, brokers, and internal stakeholders. The Director oversees the Real Estate Manager and broader team and collaborates cross-functionally to support business growth and operational excellence. The pay range for this position at commencement of employment is expected to be between $195-$225k per year; however, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership
• Develop and execute long-term real estate strategies aligned with company goals.
• Lead site selection and market analysis for new permanent and seasonal locations.
• Oversee lease negotiations, renewals, and amendments to ensure favorable terms and compliance with See's standards.
• Maintain occupancy costs at or below target thresholds.
• Portfolio Management
• Manage the company's real estate portfolio, including lease administration, property management, and landlord relations.
• Review and approve lease-related documents including estoppels, SNDAs, and license agreements.
• Ensure timely execution of leases and renewals in partnership with legal counsel.
• Financial Oversight
• Prepare and manage department and rent budgets.
• Review shop financials to support lease decisions and cost control.
• Approve rent payments, reconciliations, and related invoices.
• Team Leadership
• Supervise and mentor the Real Estate Manager and team.
• Provide guidance on holiday shop selection and execution.
• Foster a collaborative and high-performance culture.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Partner with Construction, Retail Operations, Accounting, IT, and Legal to support shop launches and lease compliance.
• Represent the department in executive meetings and planning sessions.
• External Relations
• Build and maintain relationships with landlords, brokers, attorneys, and property managers.
• Attend industry conferences (e.g., ICSC) to stay current on market trends and opportunities.

Qualifications

The total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, in addition to a full range of generous medical, financial, and / or other benefits (including 401(k) eligibility and various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and parental leave), dependent on the position offered. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department / team performance, and market factors.

See's is an EOE. See's will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable local, state or federal law (including San Francisco Ordinance #131192 and Los Angeles Municipal Code 189.00).