Head of International

Arlington, Virginia
Headquarters – Executive /
Corporate (Full-Time) /
Hybrid
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[solidcore] is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of International to lead [solidcore]'s global expansion strategy as we embark on our next phase of growth. This strategic leadership role will be responsible for developing and executing our international market entry strategy, with particular emphasis on joint venture partnerships and strategic alliances. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in international business development for physical retail/location-based businesses and a proven track record of successfully launching and scaling brands in international markets.

Responsibilities

    • What you will do:

      • Strategic Planning & Market Development

    • Develop a comprehensive international expansion strategy, identifying priority markets for [solidcore] based on market analysis, consumer demographics, competitive landscape, and regulatory environment
    • Conduct thorough market research and feasibility studies for target international markets, with initial focus on major metropolitan areas within significant global fitness markets 
    • Create detailed go-to-market strategies for each international market, including location selection, pricing models, and operational frameworks
    • Establish growth targets and key performance indicators for international expansion

      • Joint Venture & Strategic Partnership Development

    • Identify, evaluate, and cultivate relationships with potential joint venture partners and strategic allies in target international markets
    • Develop criteria and evaluation processes for potential international partners, ensuring alignment with [solidcore]'s values, operational standards, and growth ambitions
    • Lead due diligence processes for potential partners, including financial assessment, market position analysis, and cultural fit evaluation
    • Structure and negotiate joint venture agreements, partnership terms, and strategic alliance frameworks that align with brand standards and business objectives
    • Manage ongoing relationships with joint venture partners and strategic allies

      • Business Development & Deal Execution

    • Lead all aspects of international deal structuring, from initial partner identification through contract negotiation and signing
    • Collaborate with legal, finance, and operations teams to ensure proper deal structure, risk mitigation, and compliance with international regulations
    • Develop standardized partnership frameworks and templates to streamline future international expansion efforts
    • Oversee the transition from deal signing to operational launch, working closely with cross-functional partners to ensure successful market entry
    • Cross-Functional Leadership & Collaboration
    • Partner closely with Real Estate, Operations, Marketing, Finance, and Legal teams to ensure a coordinated approach to international expansion
    •  Work with the Real Estate team to establish location criteria and site selection processes for international markets
    • Collaborate with Operations to adapt [solidcore]'s operational model for international markets while maintaining brand consistency and workout quality
    • Partner with Marketing to develop international brand positioning strategies and localized marketing approaches
    • Support the Finance team in developing international financial models, reporting structures, and performance metrics

      • Market Intelligence & Competitive Analysis

    • Maintain a deep understanding of international fitness market trends, competitive dynamics, and consumer preferences
    • Monitor and analyze the performance of international fitness brands and expansion strategies to inform [solidcore]'s approach
    • Establish market intelligence gathering processes and competitive monitoring systems for international markets
    • Identify emerging opportunities and potential threats in international markets

      • Operational Excellence & Brand Standards

    • Ensure international partners maintain [solidcore]'s high standards for workout quality, instructor training, studio design, and customer experience
    • Develop international operational guidelines, training programs, and quality assurance processes
    • Create systems for ongoing monitoring and support of international locations
    • Establish communication protocols and reporting structures with international partners

Qualifications

    • What you will need:

      • Education & Experience

    • Bachelor's degree in Business, International Business, Marketing, or related field; MBA preferred
    • Minimum 8-10 years of experience in international business development, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role
    • Proven experience in physical retail, fitness, wellness, hospitality, or consumer-facing location-based businesses
    • Demonstrated success in developing and executing joint venture partnerships and strategic alliances
    • Experience with international market entry strategies and cross-border business operations
    • Track record of successfully launching and scaling brands in international markets

      • Core Competencies

    • Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop comprehensive long-term international expansion strategies while managing short-term tactical execution
    • Partnership Development: Proven ability to identify, evaluate, and cultivate strategic partnerships and joint ventures
    • Deal Making: Strong negotiation skills and experience in structuring complex international business deals
    • Market Analysis: Expertise in conducting market research, competitive analysis, and feasibility studies
    • Cross-Cultural Competency: Deep understanding of international business practices and cultural nuances
    • Project Management: Excellent ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder international projects from concept to completion
    • Financial Acumen: Strong understanding of international finance, deal structuring, and business model adaptation

      • Industry Knowledge

    • Deep understanding of the boutique fitness industry, consumer trends, and competitive landscape
    • Knowledge of international retail/franchise operations and expansion strategies
    • Familiarity with international regulatory environments and compliance requirements
    • Understanding of real estate markets and site selection processes in international markets

      • Leadership & Communication

    • Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels
    • Strong leadership presence with the ability to build and manage high-performing teams
    • Experience working with diverse, international teams and stakeholders
    • Ability to represent [solidcore] professionally in international business settings

      • Travel & Location Requirements

    • Position based at [solidcore] headquarters in Arlington, VA
    • Extensive international travel and occasional domestic travel required (40-60% of time) to travel to existing [solidcore] locations, evaluate markets, meet partners, and support market launches
    • Must hold a valid passport and be able to travel internationally on short notice

Compensation and Benefits

    • Competitive salary based on experience
    • Bonus eligibility based on individual and company performance
    • Monthly cell phone stipend
    • 401k with employer match
    • Health, dental, & vision insurance
    • Flexible PTO
    • Free drop-in classes at [solidcore]
    • And MORE
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