Director of Real Estate Development

The Director of Real Estate Development will work with existing internal team members to oversee the full life cycle of affordable housing and other development projects-from concept through permanent financing-across multiple communities and regions. This senior-level role oversees real estate project planning, financial feasibility, funding applications, stakeholder engagement, construction oversight, and permanent closing. The Director works closely with local and state funding partners and serves as a liaison to community stakeholders, municipalities, and internal departments.

Why work for DePaul?

Make a positive difference in someone's life
• Supportive work environment
• We value diversity
• Opportunity for professional development and career advancement
• Excellent benefits and competitive wages
• Pay range for this position is $100,000-$125,000/year based on experience

Strategic Leadership & Team Oversight:

• Work with existing staff to oversee the preparation of funding applications, due diligence documents, and internal reports.
• Work with team members, program staff, and support staff; facilitating communication between all departments.
• Mentor development team members and support staff.
• Establish team goals, timelines, and performance expectations to meet development milestones and compliance standards.
• Foster a mission-driven, inclusive, and collaborative work environment.
• Serve as senior liaison with external consultants, internal and external legal counsel, municipalities, funders, and community partners.

Project Development & Management:

• Manage multiple affordable housing and mixed-use development projects from predevelopment through lease-up and stabilization.
• Conduct site evaluations, oversee due diligence, and track site control and zoning approvals.
• Guide creation and submission of funding applications (LIHTC, HFA, HOME, NYS HCR, OMH, ESSHI, HHAP, etc.) and ensure compliance with public and private funding programs.

• Lead project feasibility and risk assessment processes, including review of development and operating budgets.

Finance & Funding Oversight:

• Coordinate capital stack planning, including grants, tax credits, and private financing.
• Procure, review, and approve bank, investor, and public agency construction and permanent financing commitments.
• Approve construction and soft cost draws and review change orders to ensure financial discipline.
• Oversee permanent closings and satisfaction of all compliance documentation.

Construction & Occupancy Readiness:

• Work with Construction Manager, legal, and other team members to resolve issues affecting schedules, permitting, or compliance.
• Advise property management regarding lease-up schedule and implications on funding.
• Maximize equity adjusters by aligning project completion with investor expectations and funding timelines.

Compliance & Reporting:

• Maintain comprehensive records.
• Prepare reports for executive leadership and funding agencies.
• Work with the design team to ensure all projects meet federal, state, and local housing and zoning regulations

Education & Experience:

• Minimum 5 years of experience in affordable housing development, public funding, or real estate finance.
• High school diploma required; bachelor's degree strongly preferred.
• Proven success in managing complex real estate development projects.
• Deep understanding of NYS LIHTC programs, HCR funding mechanisms, and public-private partnerships.
• Experience supervising cross-functional teams and external partners.
• Strong financial and analytical skills with proficiency in Microsoft Excel and budget modeling.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills with a collaborative, mission-aligned mindset.
• Valid driver's license, personal transportation, and willingness to travel.

Physical Requirements:

• Flexible work hours, including occasional evening meetings and overnight travel.
• Routine use of computer equipment and frequent communication across teams.
• Ability to sit, stand, and use a computer for extended periods. Must be able to lift to 20 lbs., communicate effectively, and perform basic office tasks such as typing, filing, and operating standard office equipment.

This position is eligible for the following benefits: Medical Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Generous PTO & Paid Holidays, 403B with Employer Match, robust Employee Assistant Program, Staff Recognition Program and Employee Discount Program.

DePaul is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. All employment is decided based on qualifications, merit, and program need.