Deputy Chief, Real Estate Officer

The New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) is the largest public housing authority in North America, providing housing for over 400,000 New Yorkers. NYCHA is committed to promoting safety, affordable housing, and sustainable communities for all residents.

About the role

The Deputy Chief will be a key team member responsible for the development and execution of strategic initiatives within NYCHA’s Real Estate Development Department (REDD). Reporting directly to the Chief of Real Estate Development, the Deputy Chief will help oversee the development, management, and implementation of NYCHA’s long-term real estate strategy. This role requires executive leadership experience, project management, policy advocacy, strategic planning, and team management. The Deputy Chief will drive the agency’s real estate initiatives, ensuring alignment with NYCHA’s mission of providing affordable housing and fostering sustainable, equitable communities.

The Deputy Chief will develop close working relationships across the agency and with key external partners to promote the goals of NYCHA’s real estate department. This role involves collaboration with several NYCHA departments, including the CEO office, members of the Executive Team, vice presidents, and project managers within REDD. The Deputy Chief will provide strategic direction and support for high-priority real estate development and policy initiatives, step in for the Chief Real Estate Officer as needed, and ensure strategic alignment across the Department’s senior leadership.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of NYCHA’s real estate strategy and policies, focusing on housing equity, sustainability, and affordability, while ensuring alignment with broader New York City goals.
• Advocate for policy initiatives that drive cohesive implementation across the REDD portfolio and ensure projects meet the needs of NYCHA’s residents.
• Co-lead and manage a high-performing team of project leaders within the Executive Vice President’s office, providing mentorship, guidance, and strategic direction.
• Establish and communicate clear priorities for project leaders, ensuring alignment with NYCHA’s overall real estate objectives.
• Manage team and individual performance, including hiring, coaching, and career development.
• Oversee department administration, including budget processes, contract management, invoice payment, and hiring procedures with support from the administrative team.
• Collaborate with and provide high-level guidance to department leaders managing specific real estate development teams to ensure effective project execution.
• Build and maintain relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government agencies, developers, community organizations, and elected officials.
• Develop and maintain strong internal relationships with departments such as Intergovernmental Affairs, Communications, and the CEO’s office to facilitate coordinated efforts.
• Serve as a liaison between the department and external partners, including City Hall and other agencies, to advance strategic priorities.
• Support the development and execution of external affairs and internal communications strategies, including preparing senior leadership for meetings, speaking engagements, and public events.
• Represent the Department and Executive Vice President at meetings and events as required.

Requirements

• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college and three years of full-time paid experience in an administrative, executive, or consultative capacity in a large public housing agency; or equivalent education and/or experience.
• 3-7 years of experience in real estate development, government, urban planning, affordable housing policy, or related fields such as change management or managing public partnerships.
• Demonstrated success in managing large-scale projects, developing partnership programs, policy initiatives, and leading teams.
• Strong leadership abilities with experience managing cross-functional teams and setting strategic priorities.
• In-depth understanding of public housing policy, affordable housing finance, and the regulatory landscape surrounding real estate development.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to engage diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, residents, and external partners.
• Strong negotiation abilities, with a focus on securing outcomes that balance the interests of NYCHA, the community, and external development partners.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in real estate, Urban Planning, Public Policy, Business, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred.

Benefits

• Choice of medical coverage plans.
• Deferred compensation plans.
• Defined pension benefit plan as a member of the New York City Employees’ Retirement System (NYCERS).

Pay

$160,000.00 – $185,000.00