Franchise Manager Italy

As Franchise Manager (Italy) you will support the Development function in driving the expansion of Minor Hotels' portfolio across Italy, with a particular focus on opportunities related to franchise and asset-light growth models.

The role will be responsible for identifying, sourcing and advancing new hotel opportunities, working closely with owners, investors and internal teams to evaluate potential projects and support the execution of deals.

This position is aimed at profiles with a strong background in hotel development, real estate or hospitality expansion, with the ability to operate in a commercial, fast-paced environment and contribute to the growth of the pipeline and closing of new franchise agreements.

What will be your mission?

As Franchise Manager (Italy) you will support the Development function in driving the expansion of Minor Hotels' portfolio across Italy, with a particular focus on opportunities related to franchise and asset-light growth models.

The role will be responsible for identifying, sourcing and advancing new hotel opportunities, working closely with owners, investors and internal teams to evaluate potential projects and support the execution of deals.

This position is aimed at profiles with a strong background in hotel development, real estate or hospitality expansion, with the ability to operate in a commercial, fast-paced environment and contribute to the growth of the pipeline and closing of new franchise agreements.

What will you do?

Development & Deal Sourcing:

• Proactively identify and originate hotel opportunities across Italy (conversions, rebrands, new developments)
• Build pipeline across owners, investors, white label operators and advisors
• Develop and nurture strong relationships with hotel owners, developers, white label operators, brokers, and other key industry stakeholders.
• Identify off-market and proprietary opportunities that align with Minor Hotels' brand and regional strategy.
• Represent Minor Hotels at industry events, conferences and roadshows to strengthen brand visibility and deal flow.

Negotiation & Structuring:

• Lead commercial and strategic assessments of potential franchise opportunities.
• Collaborate with Feasibility to review market dynamics, competitive positioning, return expectations, and long-term value creation.
• Partner with Legal to develop term sheets, negotiate franchise agreements and secure internal approvals.
• Prepare and present business cases, financial summaries and strategic rationales to senior leadership.

Onboarding & Transition to Franchise Support:

• Coordinate all pre-contract and pre-opening phases, including brand fit evaluation, technical alignment and compliance with franchise requirements.
• Manage the transition to the SVP Franchise Support, ensuring a clear and comprehensive handover for ongoing operational relationship management.
• Oversee the initial onboarding period to ensure the franchise partner fully understands brand standards, systems and obligations.

Deal Assessment, Negotiation & Structuring:

• Act as the primary point of contact for owners throughout the development, negotiation and pre-opening stages.
• Provide strategic guidance to owners regarding brand selection, conversion requirements and commercial expectations.
• Identify future opportunities for conversions, brand upgrades, multi-property agreements or portfolio deals.

What are we looking for?

• 5+ years in hotel Development, Investment, consultancy areas within Hospitality.
• Demonstrated experience working directly with hotel owners, investors or franchise partners.
• Strong understanding of franchising models.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in finance, economics, or business.
• Technical Skills: Good understanding of financial concepts related to hotel development (feasibility, investment logic, returns) understanding of brand standards, familiarity with asset light operating models strong negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
• Languages: High level in English and Italian; additional languages are a plus for international expansion.

Compensation

Gross annual salary starting from 50K.

Compensation will be commensurate with the candidate's experience, skills and level of seniority.

Why choose us?

At Minor Hotels Europe & Americas we are committed to shaping exciting careers worldwide and cross-cultural experiences. Join a global hospitality group and unlock endless opportunities for growth and success in an international environment. Our journey is fuelled by the passion and dedication of our incredible teams, wh