Business Development Director

The Business Development Director plays a pivotal role in driving DAFC's strategic growth through both vertical and horizontal expansion within the luxury sector. The position is responsible for identifying, evaluating, and developing new business opportunities, including new brand partnerships, store development projects, and strategic category extensions into emerging segments such as Wellness and Beauty.

The role also oversees the Project Development Team (responsible for new store openings and closures) and the Leasing Support Team, ensuring optimal site acquisition, commercial negotiation, and project execution aligned with DAFC's business strategy.

Responsibilities

1. Business Development & Strategic Expansion

• Develop and execute the company's growth roadmap through strategic brand partnerships, development and category expansion.
• Lead initiatives for vertical growth across Luxury Fashion, Watches, and Jewelry, ensuring alignment with global brand strategies and market demand.
• Spearhead horizontal diversification into Luxury Wellness and Beauty, identifying potential brands, partners, and new business formats.
• Conduct feasibility studies, business modeling, and market analysis to assess commercial potential and investment return.
• Lead deal structuring, negotiation, and finalization of new brand distribution or retail partnership agreements.
• Collaborate with Corporate stakeholders (Finance, Legal, Retail, Marketing, and Operations) to ensure smooth onboarding of new business initiatives.
• Design new SOP and build strong operations team for new business models.
• Test run the new business operations smoothly before handing over to business operations team.

2. Project Development & Store Rollout

• Oversee end-to-end project development including new store openings, renovations, and closures across DAFC's portfolio.
• Ensure all projects are executed on time, within budget, and in compliance with brand guidelines and landlord requirements.
• Direct and mentor the Project Development Team, ensuring strong cross-functional collaboration with Retail Operations, Visual Merchandising, and IT.
• Work closely with Finance and Procurement teams to control CAPEX and optimize investment returns.

3. Leasing Strategy & Landlord Relations

• Supervise and guide the Leasing Support Team in identifying, evaluating, and negotiating prime retail locations across Vietnam's key malls and luxury destinations.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with developers, landlords, and mall operators to secure premium retail spaces and favorable commercial terms.
• Evaluate lease renewals, relocations, and expansions to support DAFC's retail network optimization and profitability.
• Provide strategic input on mall development trends and new property opportunities relevant to DAFC's portfolio.

4. Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Lead and inspire a multidisciplinary team, fostering a culture of performance, accountability, and collaboration.
• Provide coaching and direction to ensure the team's development and operational excellence.
• Act as a key business partner to the Managing Director and Senior Leadership Team in shaping DAFC's long-term expansion vision.

5. Performance Management & Reporting

• Define and track business KPIs for brand acquisition, store rollout, leasing performance, and project efficiency.
• Prepare regular reports and strategic updates for the Managing Director and Group Management Board.
• Identify process improvements and best practices to enhance speed, efficiency, and scalability in business development execution.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Economics, or related fields; MBA preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in business development, retail expansion, or strategic partnerships within Luxury, Premium Retail, Health and Beauty sectors.
• Proven track record in managing brand development and scalable retail project implementation.
• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills with experience working with landlords and developers.
• Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and presentation skills in both English and Vietnamese.
• Strategic mindset, analytical strength, and ability to lead multiple cross-functional projects simultaneously.
• High integrity, professional maturity, and passion for the luxury retail industry.