City of Austin - JOB DESCRIPTION

Director, Housing

Under general direction this position is responsible for planning, directing, managing, and overseeing the activities and operations of the Housing department and Austin Housing Finance Corporation, including Affordable Housing Programs and Real Estate, Affordable Housing Policy and Planning, and Displacement Prevention Programs.

1. Directs housing operations to achieve goals, partnering with diverse stakeholders that include residents, community organizations, and private and nonprofit entities.
2. Directs investments to support programs and initiatives related to displacement prevention, affordable housing, and acquisition and development of real property.
3. Interprets applicable laws, charters, codes, ordinances, etc. to carry out duties, which may include serving as a board member and/or official of separate legal instrumentalities of the City of Austin.
4. Represents the City of Austin before the business community on affordable housing policy issues and programs; presents to City Council and related boards and commissions.
5. Ensures coordination with other City departments for a seamless approach to program planning, development, and execution.
6. Performs program evaluation, policy analysis and procedure review to ensure proper allocation of and efficient use of all capital resources.
7. Manages and participates in the development and administration of the department budget; estimates funds needed for staffing, equipment, materials, and supplies; directs the monitoring and approval of expenditures; and directs the preparation and implementation of budgetary adjustments as necessary.
8. Develops and negotiates contracts between the City, private developers, and other governmental entities in major, high-profile redevelopment projects that directly impact affordable housing development.
9. Acts as official departmental representative to other City departments, City Manager’s Office, elected officials, and outside agencies; explains, justifies, and defends department programs, policies, and activities; and negotiates and resolves sensitive, significant, and controversial issues. Briefs and advises City management, the Mayor, and City Council regarding matters related to affordable
10. housing issues either in person or through written reports.
11. Builds and manages an effective executive team and departmental staff.

Responsible for the full range of supervisory activities including selection, training, evaluation, counseling, and recommendation for dismissal.

• Knowledge of principles and practices of public administration.
• Knowledge of principles, practices, and methods of grant management.
• Knowledge of public policy development and analysis.
• Knowledge of community needs assessment techniques.
• Knowledge of planning principles, urban design, and land development regulations.
• Knowledge and understanding of the concepts of equity, including experience in applying equity frameworks to established laws, ordinances, and long-standing practices.
• Skill in directing the activities of a complex and diverse organization.
• Ability to resolve sensitive issues and complaints.
• Ability to interpret, recommend, and propose revisions to State statutes and City ordinances.
• Ability to partner with diverse stakeholders to achieve outcomes that advance economic opportunity and affordability strategies.
• Ability to use an equity lens and framework to create inclusive, diverse, and safe workplaces and community programs.
• Ability to manage diversity, understand inclusion, and work with diverse communities or populations to build constructive and effective relationships.

Graduation with a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Business, Public Administration, Planning, and Social Sciences, or a related field, plus five (5) years of management experience in affordable housing and social policy issues or other related experience.