Real Estate Operations Manager

Title: Real Estate Operations ManagerTeam: Finance and OperationsReports to: Vice President of FinanceSupervises: Local Property Managers (4-6); Vendor and contractor managementEmployment Type: Full time; ExemptLocation: Hybrid; with occasional presence in our Concord, NH office and willingness to travel to properties across Northern New England and the Adirondacks About the Northern Forest CenterFounded in 1997, the Northern Forest Center works across the 30-million-acre Northern Forest region of New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. We advance community economic development and forest stewardship by providing collaborative leadership, innovative ideas, and expertise in program delivery, investment, project management, and public policy. Our work is grounded in strong partnerships with rural communities and a deep commitment to the region’s people, land, and future. Learn more at www.northernforest.org. Position Summary: The Real Estate Operations Manager oversees the management and operations of a portfolio of commercial-residential, single and multifamily rental units across Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont and New York to protect organizational assets, ensure overall operational effectiveness and deliver a high-quality rental experience. This role collaborates cross functionally with Center teams and with contracted vendors to ensure all facilities are managed effectively and in alignment with the Center’s mission. Key responsibilities include but are not limited to:Building Operations Management – 60%Oversee operations of several mixed-use residential and commercial properties, ensuring they are safe, functional, and compliant with regulatory standards. Current active portfolio includes 5 commercial units and 35 residential units; with the anticipated addition of 43 residential units in the next three years.Advise and support contracted property managers in coordinating maintenance contractors; Regular review of building maintenance vendors, and service providers ensuring high-quality cost-effective work.Track and support property managers in completing routine and preventative maintenance, inspections, and repairs in accordance with state and local requirements for conveyance equipment, sprinkler systems, security alarms, fire extinguishers, HVAC, and sewer/water systemsServe as a liaison across property managers, sharing organizational knowledge and ensuring consistency in management across locations.Provide oversight and guidance regarding leasing practices, tenant selection processes, and unit turnover activities.Develop and maintain building manuals, training materials and operating procedures related to buildings operations and property managementDevelop and implement contingency plans for property manager or vendor turnover to ensure seamless building operations.Implement a portfolio-wide approach to property management, identifying efficiencies and shared service opportunities.Track and manage property budgets, lease terms, rental income, security deposits, and utility accounts.Regular review of rent amounts against property proformas and budgetsMaintain accurate records of all maintenance activities, asset performance, and financial expenditures.Prepare regular reports and portfolio updates for leadership. Property Transactions – 20%Provide operational insights to inform the Center’s long-term real estate investment strategy.Execute the Center’s portfolio exit strategy for residential multifamily and mixed-use building utilizing; act as a liaison between legal support and Center team to drive decision-making.Support and advise Center program staff on preconstruction including development design and association structures Compliance and Risk Management – 10%Regular review of insurance policies in collaboration with insurance agents.Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal regulations related to facilities management, including safety standards, environmental regulations, and accessibility requirements.Conduct regular risk assessments and develop mitigation strategies for potential issues.Develop and maintain crisis response protocols to ensure appropriate action in emergencies or catastrophic property damage. Capital Planning & Project Management – 10%Develop and maintain a multi-year capital expenditures (CapEx) plan for each property, ensuring long-term sustainability and alignment with organizational goals.Identify and prioritize major capital improvement projects, including building system upgrades, structural repairs, and mission-driven enhancements such as energy efficiency improvements.Work with consultants, engineers, and contractors to assess capital needs, secure cost estimates, and implement projects effectively.Collaborate with the VP of Finance and Director of Community Investment to budget for and secure funding sources for CapEx projects, including grants and mission-aligned investments. Qualifications:Commitment to the mission and values of the Northern Forest Center.3-5 years of experience in property management, real estate operations, asset management, affordable housing, community development real estate, or a related field.Knowledge of residential and commercial real estate leasing, property management practices, financial analysis, and sustainability initiatives.Experience with operating and project budgets, proformas, financial reporting, and vendor/consultant management.Strong project management, relationship-building, and problem-solving skills.Excellent written and verbal communication skills with strong attention to detail.Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a fast-paced environment.Demonstrated ability to think strategically and improve systems, processes, and workflows across a multifaceted real estate portfolio.Strong technology skills, including Microsoft Office and the ability to learn property management and project management software (e.g., Asana, Re-Leased, or similar).Experience with affordable housing, mixed-use development, community development real estate, or nonprofit-owned real estate preferred. We recognize that strong candidates may not meet every listed qualification. If you are excited about this role and believe your experience would contribute to our mission, we encourage you to apply. Compensation & Benefits:Salary Range: $55,000 - $65,000 commensurate with experienceEmployer-sponsored health insurance options with employee premiums covered 85%-90%20 PTO days, 12 sick days and 12 holidays annuallySIMPLE IRA with 3% employer matchShort- and long-term disability coverage with premiums covered 100%Voluntary life, AD&D and dental insuranceWork cell phone or phone stipend for use of personal deviceFlexible and supportive work environment How to ApplyPlease submit a PDF resume and cover letter describing your interest and qualifications to resume@northernforest.org with the subject line: “Real Estate Operations Manager Application.” The Northern Forest Center is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We make employment decisions based on qualifications, merit, and organizational needs, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, marital status, political beliefs, or veteran status.