Job Description
Company Description
We’re RCL - Reitmans Canada Limited. We’ve been part of the fabric of Canada’s fashion landscape since 1926, and today, we’re elevating our iconic brands – Reitmans, RW&CO, and PENN. Penningtons – more than ever before.
Our vision is to empower Canadians to live confidently, and our mission is to create collections of uncompromising style and quality for all.
With close to 400 stores nationwide and collections designed right here at home, in Canada, we offer an exceptional customer experience. What drives us? A clear vision, unwavering commitment to our customers, and the passion of our thousands of employees across the country.
Job Description
As a key member of the Real Estate team, the Senior Lease Documentation Manager oversees the preparation, negotiation, and management of all legal documentation related to the company’s leased real estate portfolio across Canada.
A subject matter expert in commercial lease documentation under both Quebec Civil Code and Canadian common law, this role ensures accuracy, enforceability, consistency, and effective risk mitigation.
Reporting to the Director, Lease Documentation, this position plays a lead role in shaping leasing standards, driving strategic negotiations, and supporting cross-functional partners. RCL is committed to internal development: this position offers a structured career path toward a future leadership role.
Job Description:
Lease Documentation & Negotiation
- Lead drafting, negotiation, and finalization of lease related documents (agreements, offers, leases, amendments) across all Canadian provinces.
- Serve as the primary liaison with landlords, legal counsel, developers, brokers, and stakeholders to secure favorable lease terms.
- Proactively identify and mitigate legal and operational risks in lease agreements.
- Assess legal and commercial risk in lease transactions and provide practical recommendations to minimize exposure while supporting business goals.
- Interpret complex lease documents and deliver clear, actionable summaries to the Director and executives.
- Develop and maintain standardized legal language and precedents across jurisdictions.
Strategic Legal Leadership
- Define and maintain standardized clauses and legal precedents to protect company interests.
- Interpret complex lease provisions and provide strategic, actionable recommendations to executives and the Real Estate team.
- Provide strategic support to Legal Counsel, including document analysis and recommendations for legal opinions or dispute related matters.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with Real Estate, Legal, Finance, Store Planning, and Executive Leadership to ensure data accuracy, operational alignment and consistency with broader business strategy.
- Act as a key contributor to strategic real estate initiatives, including store openings, relocations, and renewals.
- Oversee registration of real estate instruments (Notices of Lease, Caveats) and ensure compliance.
- Review and process supplementary documents (Estoppel Certificates, Non Disturbance Agreements, lender requests).
Leadership & Succession
- Demonstrate readiness to assume expanded responsibilities, including stepping into the Director’s role upon retirement.
- Support team members and provide leadership coverage during the Director’s absence.
- Mentor junior team members and foster a collaborative, high performance culture.
Qualifications
- Paralegal Certificate or equivalent; additional training in real estate law preferred
- 10+ years in commercial lease documentation and negotiation (Quebec & common law), 5 in a senior role
- Strong understanding of retail real estate
- Expertise in Canadian commercial leasing principles and frameworks
- Excellent drafting and negotiation skills; able to manage complex transactions independently
- Highly organized, detail-oriented, with strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Strategic thinker with strong risk assessment abilities
- Able to work independently and manage multiple priorities
- Excellent judgment and decision-making
- Collaborative, proactive, and able to work under pressure
- Demonstrated leadership potential; ability to mentor and take on more responsibility
- Technologically proficient: Microsoft Office and Adobe tools
- Bilingual: English & French (written and spoken), essential for collaborating with partners across Canada.
- Remote work possible, with occasional in-office presence
Additional Information
What Sets Us Apart:
- Ultimate Flexibility*: Enjoy a hybrid work environment that ensures the perfect balance between work and personal life.
- Well-Being First: Access a comprehensive benefits program designed to take care of you.
- Flexible Time Off*: Paid leave, sick days, and vacation time to recharge and spend quality time with loved ones.
- Exclusive Discounts*: Enjoy 50% off regular-priced items from PENN. Penningtons, Reitmans, and RW&CO.
- Referral Rewards*: Refer your professional network and earn a bonus for helping us grow our talented team
- Growth opportunities*: Annual bonuses, career advancement, and tuition reimbursement to help you reach your professional goals.
*Certain conditions apply
Total rewards are aligned with your employment status, offering different perks depending on whether you’re full-time, part-time, or under contract.
Reitmans (Canada) Limited is an equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse, inclusive, and accessible workplace where everyone belongs. If you are contacted for an employment opportunity, please advise us of any accommodation required throughout the recruitment process. All information provided will be kept confidential and used solely to support an accessible candidate’s experience.
The use of Artificial Intelligence may be used for candidate screening purposes.
We thank all applicants. Only selected candidates will be contacted.
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