Description
Co-Executive Director has primary responsibility over LUCHA’s pipeline of community-driven affordable housing development projects, and shared responsibility over LUCHA’s operations, culture, values, talent, and financial performance. The person in this role will build on LUCHA’s reputation of innovation, integrity and an unwavering dedication to centering the voices of the most vulnerable members of our community. The Co-Executive Director (Community Development) will take the lead on advancing all aspects of the development process from concept development through acquisition, construction and initial occupancy. They will have a robust understanding of the affordable housing development and finance landscape through prior experience and industry relationships. Expertise in traditional development models and funding sources and the ability to execute LUCHA’s current project commitments are mandatory. Equally important is a creative drive to explore new ideas and strategies that support growth and deepen mission impact.This position reports to the Board of Directors and directly supervises the Project Manager (Equitable Community Development) and provides oversight of the Chief Engineer andHelper C in partnership with third-party property management. At LUCHA, the Co-Executive Directors each hold distinct primary domains while sharing core responsibilities for organizational leadership. Inspired by a genuine passion for empowering families and communities, the Co-Executive Directors are both strategic
leaders who, with the Board, set and articulate a clear vision for the organization. They build upon LUCHA’s history and expertise and position the organization to meet the future needs of the affordable housing sector. They have the character and confidence to work comfortably in a highly visible role and to work effectively with a broad range of constituents and with their counterpart Co-Executive Director.
Community Development (70%)
Lead housing development efforts to sustain and grow LUCHA’s pipeline of more than 200 rental units.
Oversee project execution to meet performance, compliance and revenue goals.
Assess portfolio of 193 units under management for asset management needs and long-term preservation strategies.
Oversee and report on third-party property management operations and
performance.
Maintain a staffing plan to attract, retain and develop talent in alignment with project needs and opportunities.
Cultivate a robust network of relationships across a range of stakeholders including
public and private funders, industry partners, elected officials and community leaders.
Publicly represent LUCHA in media, industry and community settings.
Stay informed on current industry trends and best practices through trainings and networking.
Organizational Leadership (30%)
Develop and implement strategic plans that balance organizational sustainability,
opportunities for growth, and community need.
Direct business activities to set and achieve portfolio, finance and fundraising goals.
Collaborate on organizational budgeting and financial recordkeeping.
Cultivate relationships with current and prospective donors and board members and actively engage and energize external stakeholders to garner new growth opportunities.
Fulfill LUCHA’s board service for Here to Stay Community Land Trust and participate in community and city-wide coalitions.
Contribute to policy and advocacy activities.
Requirements
Requirements
Candidates must have:
5+ years of experience at senior level positions in affordable housing development or affordable housing finance managing complex projects and initiatives.
Deep familiarity with and ability to navigate affordable housing programs and funding sources including LIHTC, IAHTC, PHAs and public and private grants and loans.
Demonstrable contributions to organizational or program leadership.
Strong reputation within the housing and nonprofit sectors, with a preference for work experience with projects in the Chicago metro region.
Understanding of neighborhood-level issue organizing and political landscapes.
Functional understanding of architectural design, construction, zoning, sustainability certifications and other real estate knowledge areas.
Excellent attention to detail.
Comfort with public speaking and handling media.
Experience leading a team, working effectively in a collaborative environment and building relationships with people of diverse cultural, economic and racial backgrounds.
Meaningful understanding of housing as a social justice issue intersecting with race, class, immigration status, gender and sexuality, among other identities.
Exceptional candidates will have:
Bilingual (English & Spanish) writing and speaking skills
