Chief Housing Officer

Reporting to the President/Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Chief Housing Officer (CHO) provides visionary leadership and strategic oversight for all housing-related initiatives within the organization. This executive role is responsible for the planning, development, financing, and management of affordable housing projects and real estate assets. The CHO ensures alignment with the organization’s mission to expand access to safe, affordable housing while maintaining
operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and financial sustainability.

Essential Duties:

Strategic Leadership & Organizational Oversight

• Develop and execute long-term housing strategies aligned with organizational goals.
• Serve as a key advisor to the CEO on housing policy, development, and asset management.
• Cultivate partnerships with public agencies, community organizations, investors, and other stakeholders.
• Represent the organization in housing policy discussions and advocacy efforts.

Affordable Housing Development

• Oversee the full lifecycle of affordable housing projects—from concept through construction and lease-up.
• Secure financing through public and private sources, including LIHTC, HHAP, and philanthropic funding.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and meet quality and compliance standards.

Real Estate, Facilities & Asset Management

• Provide executive oversight of all real estate assets, including:
  • Owned and leased affordable housing developments.
  • Administrative office spaces
  • Program and service delivery facilities.
• Lead internal property management and facilities teams to ensure safe, accessible, and efficient operations. 
• Oversee maintenance, repairs, capital improvements, and space utilization across the portfolio. 
• Implement preventive maintenance programs, sustainability initiatives, and long-term capital planning. 
• Ensure all facilities meet health, safety, accessibility, environmental, and regulatory standards, including Low Income Housing Tax Credit (“LIHTC”), ADA, and local building codes. 
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• Monitor property performance metrics and develop strategies to improve occupancy, financial performance, maintenance quality, and resident satisfaction. 
• Oversee lease administration and collaborate with the Chief Program Officer to align housing operations with supportive services. 
• Coordinate with internal teams and vendors to ensure timely, cost-effective facility operations.
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  Financial & Operational Management

• Lead budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting for housing development and property operations in close collaboration with the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and finance team.
• Partner with the CFO to align housing strategies with organizational financial goals, ensuring sustainable growth and risk mitigation.
• Identify opportunities for revenue growth, cost savings, and portfolio optimization through joint financial analysis and scenario planning.
• Ensure compliance with all regulatory, legal, and financial requirements, working cross-functionally with finance, legal, and compliance teams.

• Team Leadership & Culture

• Build and lead a high-performing, mission-driven housing team.
• Promote a culture of accountability, innovation, and inclusivity.
• Provide mentorship and professional development opportunities for staff.

Qualifications

Education and Experience:

• Master’s degree preferred but not required in Urban Planning, Real Estate, Public Administration, Construction Management, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive leadership experience in affordable housing development, property management, and facilities operations. 
• Experience in new residential construction, rehabilitation, or construction management. 
• Proven record in securing and managing affordable housing financing, including debt and equity sources. 
• Experience administering and complying with government-funded contracts and housing regulations. 
• Familiarity with underwriting, bond issuance, and regulatory compliance for affordable housing. 
• CPM (Certified Property Manager) or ARM (Accredited Residential Manager) certification preferred.
• Proven record of managing multi-family housing operations.
• Experience with government-funded housing programs and compliance.

Comunilife is an EEO employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.