Head of International

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