The
Director of Development Services is responsible for leading the planning, design, construction support, remodel initiatives, and development services programs for Gold's Gym corporate and franchise locations. This role serves as the operational link between Real Estate, Design, Construction, Equipment, Franchise Operations, and external development partners to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in alignment with Gold's Gym brand standards.
The Director of Development Services oversees design standards, construction processes, remodel programs, franchise development support, vendor relationships, and project delivery while driving consistency and scalability across the North American portfolio.
This position plays a critical role in supporting company-owned growth, franchise expansion, and the modernization of existing gyms.
Development Strategy & Program Leadership- Lead the execution of development initiatives supporting new club openings, relocations, expansions, and remodel programs.
- Partner with the SVP of Development to establish annual development priorities and capital plans.
- Develop and maintain scalable development processes, standards, and governance frameworks.
- Create project dashboards, milestone reporting, and executive updates for senior leadership.
Design & Brand Standards- Oversee the design function, including prototype development, space planning, and design standards.
- Ensure consistency across company-owned and franchise locations.
- Manage design review and approval processes for franchise development projects.
- Evaluate opportunities to improve club layouts, member experience, and operational efficiency while controlling development costs.
Construction & Project Delivery- Provide leadership and oversight of construction projects from pre-construction through grand opening.
- Support project budgeting, scheduling, permitting, and contractor coordination.
- Establish project management standards and reporting tools.
- Review project risks, schedules, change orders, and budget performance.
- Collaborate with project managers to ensure quality execution and timely delivery.
Remodel & Capital Improvement Programs- Lead multi-year modernization and refresh initiatives across company-owned and franchise locations.
- Develop prioritization models for capital improvements and facility upgrades.
- Coordinate execution schedules to minimize business disruption.
- Partner with Operations and Finance on budgeting and capital planning.
Franchise Development Support- Serve as a development resource for franchisees pursuing new builds, conversions, relocations, and remodels.
- Provide guidance on design standards, construction expectations, and approved vendor programs.
- Collaborate with Franchise Operations to ensure construction and design compliance.
- Support franchise onboarding and development education programs.
Vendor & Partner Management Support- Collaborate with franchise services to ensure relationships with architects, engineers, consultants, contractors, fixture vendors, and development partners are strategically aligned with department priorities.
- Assist in negotiating service agreements and evaluate vendor performance.
- Drive accountability around service, cost, schedule adherence, and quality standards.
Cross-Functional Leadership- Partner closely with Real Estate, Finance, Operations, Franchise Operations, Legal, Equipment Management, and Marketing.
- Lead cross-functional development meetings and project reviews.
- Ensure alignment between development priorities and broader business objectives.
Leadership/Supervisory Responsibilities- Directly oversee Design and Construction functions and manage a team of Construction Project Managers and 3D Modular & Interior Space Designers.
- Provide coaching, guidance, and development to team members.
- Foster a culture of accountability, service, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
- Support succession planning and development of future talent within the department.
Education- Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Architecture, Engineering, Real Estate, Business, or related field preferred.
Experience- 7+ years of experience in development, construction, architecture, project management, or related disciplines.
- Multi-site retail, fitness, hospitality, restaurant, or franchise experience strongly preferred.
- Experience managing multiple concurrent projects and cross-functional teams.
- Experience supporting franchise or multi-unit development environments preferred.
Knowledge, Skills & Abilities- Strong project and program management skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Suite, Sketchup, AutoCAD, Adobe Creative Suite, Procore and Bluebeam preferred
- Understanding of design, construction, permitting, and development processes.
- Financial acumen including budgeting, forecasting, and capital planning.
- Vendor negotiation and relationship management experience.
- Ability to balance strategic planning with hands-on execution.
- Ability to work flexible schedules and travel as required for site visits. Up to 50% travel.
