Chief of Housing Finance Initiatives

Classification: Full-Time (Exempt) / Onsite

Salary Range: $120,000 – $150,000

Reports to: Acquisition & Finance Officer

Casa Familiar, Inc. is a community-focused organization established in 1973, dedicated to enhancing the lives of residents in South San Diego County, particularly in the border community of San Ysidro.

Mission Statement: Casa Familiar aims to improve the quality of life for low-income individuals and families through advocacy, social services, education, affordable housing, arts and culture, and community and economic development. Our core values include RESPECT, INTEGRITY, FAMILIA, CULTURE, AND COMMUNITY.

We seek individuals who approach their work with a positive attitude and embody our organizational values. Ideal candidates will have a strong commitment to supporting Casa Familiar's mission and the community we serve.

POSITION OVERVIEW:

The Chief of Housing Finance Initiatives plays a pivotal role in the development process from inception to completion and stabilization of projects. This position is responsible for facilitating the financing of projects throughout their development lifecycle, utilizing a variety of private, federal, state, grant, and local funding sources. Focused on affordable housing, the candidate will collaborate closely with other real estate professionals in a team-oriented environment. Successful performance in this role requires effective coordination with various departments and external agencies. The position will work closely with Casa Familiar's Executive Management, Board of Directors, Accounting, Asset and Property Management, and staff within the Community Development division.

Real Estate Portfolio & Pipeline: Casa's housing portfolio includes several affordable multi-family complexes, community facilities, and commercial spaces located in southern San Diego County. The portfolio features large affordable housing complexes where Casa serves as the managing general partner, as well as a scattered site portfolio of smaller affordable housing complexes owned solely by Casa. Additionally, Casa operates community facilities, including office and recreational spaces.

Casa Familiar is actively expanding its project pipeline and enhancing its capacity for significant growth.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Chief supports the acquisition and financing processes, which include sourcing, managing due diligence, reviewing third-party reports, and collaborating with legal and community development teams to facilitate project closings. Responsibilities include preparing financial analyses, underwriting, and deal summaries for opportunities under consideration, as well as monitoring proforma performance throughout the project lifecycle. The Chief will foster relationships within the brokerage, developer, government entities, and lender communities in target markets within South San Diego County to create opportunities.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Finance of Pipeline Deals – 40%

• Develop, maintain, and oversee financial models in Excel using property financial statements, budgets, leases, expense data, and market assumptions;
• Assist in the underwriting, analysis, and execution of real estate acquisitions;
• Compile due diligence materials, budgets, financial models, and schedules;
• Create project acquisition proposals and presentation materials;
• Coordinate the closing of transactions;
• Update due diligence checklists for transactions;
• Prepare budgets, financial models, and market reports for debt/equity proposals and investor reporting;
• Conduct market research;
• Stay informed of current industry and market trends by attending conferences;
• Facilitate project inspections and tours;
• Monitor and interpret project data, including contracts, schedules, budgets, and cash flows;
• Assist with special projects and assignments as needed;
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams on communication and engagement strategies for successful acquisition and financing.

Funding Applications, Budget Tracking & Reporting – 40%

• Support the submission of various funding applications;
• Identify additional funding sources and assist in preparing financing applications;
• Obtain formal budget approval prior to project implementation;
• Ensure long-term viability by budgeting adequate reserves and operating expenses;
• Protect Casa Familiar's assets through conservative assumptions and clear documentation;
• Oversee project budgets, track draw requests, and manage project flow of funds;
• Prepare and submit required compliance reports;
• Monitor projects through to operational stabilization;
• Develop and present reports and performance dashboards for stakeholders;
• Maintain effective relationships with residents, community groups, partners, investors, lenders, and regulatory bodies;
• Collaborate with the Finance Department to review and deliver audits, budgets, and reports to executive leadership and the board.

Other Duties - 20%

• Engage in external working groups focused on community development and affordable housing;
• Participate in agency events and initiatives as required;
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Supervision: This position does not involve direct supervision of staff but will act as the owner's representative for pipeline projects and oversee vendors and contractors.

SKILLS, EXPERIENCE, AND EDUCATIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• 3-5 years of experience in real estate finance underwriting preferred;
• Knowledge of affordable housing finance;
• Ability to assess and underwrite affordable multifamily real estate investments;
• Advanced Excel skills and strong analytical and financial modeling capabilities;
• Experience in preparing financial models for transaction structuring;
• Support for the real estate closing process, including loan and equity funding;
• Familiarity with the entitlement process through local governmental agencies;
• Ability to maintain ongoing project budgets and manage the draw process;
• Understanding of federal programs for affordable multifamily properties;
• Knowledge of tax and financing alternative programs;
• Detail-oriented with a commitment to high-quality work;
• Ability to think independently and communicate viewpoints professionally;
• Strong organizational skills;
• Ability to present information clearly in oral and written form;
• Well-developed interpersonal and communication skills;
• Passion for real estate finance and development;
• Outstanding analytical, verbal, and written communication skills;
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, and Outlook;
• Ability to work with diverse cultures and backgrounds;
• Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred;
• Valid California driver's license and availability of an insured vehicle for travel.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

This position requires sitting at a desk, walking, standing, climbing stairs, hearing, speaking, and the ability to lift up to 25 lbs. A background check is required. In compliance with federal law, all hired individuals must verify their identity and eligibility to work in the United States. This is a full-time, exempt position with occasional responsibilities on weekends and/or evenings as needed.

Casa Familiar, Inc. is an equal employment opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by law.

BENEFITS SUMMARY:

• Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance;
• 403(b) Retirement plan with a 3% contribution from Casa;
• 403(b) Retention Benefit based on years of service;
• Paid time off including sick leave, holidays, and wellness days;
• Bereavement leave;
• Jury duty leave;
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP);
• Potential for hybrid working arrangements.