Real Estate Manager

JOB SUMMARY:

The Real Estate Manager is responsible for supporting the execution of Citi Trends’ real estate strategy by managing site selection, lease negotiations, renewals, relocations, and store closures. Reporting to the Director of Real Estate, this position plays a key role in identifying growth opportunities and ensuring efficient portfolio management. The Real Estate Manager partners cross-functionally with internal departments and external vendors to ensure all transactions align with the company’s operational, financial, and strategic objectives.

DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Partner with the Director of Real Estate to identify, evaluate, and secure new store locations, relocations, and expansions in alignment with market plans and business objectives.
• Develop market specific store growth plans utilizing existing stores, forecasting technology, broker insights, and in market research
• Negotiate lease terms, renewals, amendments, and terminations to achieve favorable terms for the company.
• Manage the assigned portfolio of properties, ensuring timely lease renewals, rent reviews, and compliance with lease terms.
• Conduct site tours, market research, demographic analysis, and competitor assessments to support real estate decisions.
• Develop financial models and perform ROI and cost-benefit analysis to support site recommendations.
• Track and manage real estate project timelines and budgets from initial proposal to lease execution.
• Collaborate with internal partners in Construction, Legal, Finance, Store Operations, and Design to coordinate real estate projects and resolve issues efficiently.
• Maintain strong relationships with landlords, brokers, consultants, and legal counsel to support deal flow and lease execution.
• Assist in preparing materials and reports for leadership review, including pipeline updates, site packages, and lease summaries.
• Support lease administration, database accuracy, and real estate compliance activities.
• Contribute to cross-functional real estate initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Director of Real Estate.

REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:

• Experience with multi-site retail chains and a strong understanding of retail real estate dynamics.
• Knowledge of lease structures, commercial real estate law, and site selection methodologies.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office, real estate software, and mapping tools (e.g., CoStar, ESRI, Tango, or similar).
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Collaborative mindset and comfort working cross-functionally with diverse teams.
• Travel required based on project needs (up to 30%).

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Business Administration, Finance, or a related field required.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in retail or commercial real estate, including direct lease negotiation experience.
• Demonstrated ability to manage a portfolio and support growth strategies across multiple markets.
• Strong financial acumen and experience with real estate deal modeling and analysis.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

• While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit and work at a computer.
• Must be able to travel to site locations and conduct in-person property tours.
• Occasionally may be required to lift up to 25 pounds.
• Must be able to work effectively in a dynamic, high-demand environment.