About us

Rural King is America’s Farm and Home Store, providing essentials to the communities we serve. With a wide array of necessities ranging from food and feed to farm and home products, Rural King serves over 140 locations across 14 states and is constantly expanding. Our annual sales exceed $2.5 Billion, and our heart beats in Mattoon, IL, home to our corporate office, distribution center, and flagship store.

One thing our customers appreciate is our unique shopping experience, complete with complimentary popcorn and coffee. It's just one way we show our appreciation for their support.

At Rural King, we value our associates and strive to create a positive, rewarding workplace. We offer growth opportunities, competitive benefits, and a people-first environment where dedicated individuals come together to serve rural communities passionately. Join us, and you'll find not just a job but a chance to grow professionally, contribute meaningfully, and make a difference in the lives of those we serve.

How we reward you

401(k) plan that provides a 100% match on the first 3% of your contributions and 50% of the next 2%

Healthcare plans to support your needs

Virtual doctor visits

Access to Centers of Excellence with Barnes Jewish Hospital and Mayo Clinic’s Complex Care Program

15% Associate Discount

Dave Ramsey’s SmartDollar Program

Associate Assistance Program

RK Cares Associate Hardship Program

24/7 Chaplaincy Services

Company paid YMCA Family Membership

What You’ll do

As a Director of Real Estate you will oversee real estate acquisitions and dispositions, and lease negotiations for our expanding network of farm and home retail locations. This position will develop and implement strategies to maximize profitability related to all facets of the total Rural King Real Estate & Development portfolio. This role requires a deep understanding of rural and suburban markets, agricultural communities, and retail development trends.

• Identify and evaluate potential retail sites in rural and semi-rural markets aligned with strategic growth plans.
• Negotiate lease terms, purchase agreements, and other real estate contracts with property owners, developers, and landlords.
• Manage the full lifecycle of real estate transactions from initial contact through closing.
• Coordinate with legal counsel to ensure compliance with all contractual and regulatory requirements.
• Partner with internal teams including finance, legal, construction, and operations to align real estate decisions with business objectives.
• Provide real estate input during capital planning and budgeting processes.
• Support store planning and design teams with site-specific requirements and constraints.
• Recommend strategies for relocations, consolidations, or divestitures as needed.
• Oversee due diligence processes including zoning, environmental assessments, title reviews, and permitting.
• Build and maintain relationships with local brokers, developers, municipal officials, and community stakeholders.
• Represent the company in public meetings, zoning hearings, and community engagement efforts.
• Track and report on real estate pipeline, deal status, and market trends.
• Provide strategic recommendations to leadership based on market intelligence and performance metrics.
• Stay current on industry trends, economic indicators, and legislative changes affecting commercial real estate.
• May be required to cross train and perform other duties.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Yes

Essential Qualities for Success

• Proven experience (5+ years) in commercial real estate, preferably with retail or agricultural property focus.
• Strong negotiation and contract management skills.
• Familiarity with rural and agricultural communities and their commercial dynamics.
• Excellent analytical, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to travel as needed.
• Knowledge of land use planning, zoning regulations, and permitting processes in rural jurisdictions.
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.

Physical Requirements 

• Ability to maintain a seated or standing position for extended durations.
• Capability to lift 15 pounds periodically.
• Ability to navigate and access all facilities.
• Skill to effectively communicate verbally with others, both in-person and via electronic devices.
• Close vision for computer-related activities.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

The pay range for this position is $100,000 - $150,000 annualized and is bonus eligible. Exact compensation is determined by factors such as relevant geographic location, education, certifications, experience, job level, shift, and organizational needs. To learn more about our benefits, review here https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:VA6C2:14539c15-191a-4b77-9c13-f6ccfce10094.