Director of Real Estate and Community Development

Job Overview The Director of Real Estate Development is a direct report to the Executive Director with a focus on creating and maintaining affordable housing in the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont as well as strengthening our relationships in the community and ensuring Rural Edge is seen as a resource supporting more than just our tenants.

The Director of Real Estate Development manages Rural Edge ’s development pipeline including property acquisition, new construction, rehabilitation, and capital projects. The Director works closely with the Director of Property Management managing the asset management plan and works to ensure compliance with all funder requirements.

The Director of Real Estate Development also provides monthly and/or bi-weekly reports to the Board of Directors, funders, and other key stakeholders.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Direct all aspects of the organization’s real estate development activities based on strategic plans including new construction and rehabilitation projects as well as capital projects. Provide leadership, supervision, and evaluation of staff for the Real Estate Development Department, as well as oversee the creation of departmental and professional development goals.

Work with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to evaluate new acquisitions to expand the Rural Edge portfolio. Research and identify funding sources and develop financing strategies to develop housing and increase capacity of the various departments to support community efforts. Represent Rural Edge at internal and external meetings with stakeholders and community partners to further housing opportunities and community partnerships in the Northeast Kingdom.

Develop pro forma capital development and operating budgets for potential projects. Complete financing applications for project funding including (but not limited to) VHFA, VHCB, USDA RD, Northern Borders Funding, AHP, CDBG, and more. Work with external consultants to increase the capacity of the Real Estate Development Department.

Increase staff knowledge and independence by supervising the professional development of staff in Real Estate Development Department. Supervise and/or serve as Project Manager for the purposes of construction meetings, project oversight, and requisitions as needed. Maintain a healthy development pipeline for the organization and track developer fees and project milestones.

Work with Executive Director, Finance Director, and the Director of Property Management to evaluate property performance and implement changes as necessary to improve performance. Negotiate partnership deal structures with public agencies and other private developers, if applicable, for components of the developments.

Promote Rural Edge to the community at large as needed. The Director of Real Estate Development reports directly to the Executive Director and is expected to work with minimal supervision to make key decisions in consultation with the Executive Director and Director of Finance. The duties and responsibilities in the job description may be subject to change at any time, due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

Management may, at its discretion, assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree or higher in construction management, building and design, finance, business management, project management, or other related field, or multiple years of experience in a related field. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Excellent organizational skills and detailed work habits. Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Office Suite.

Ability to travel for job performance. Possession of a valid driver’s license, a good driving record, and an automobile with insurance.