Director of Finance, Real Estate and Capital Asset Development

The Talent Acquisition department hires qualified candidates to fill positions which contribute to the overall strategic success of Howard University. Hiring staff "for fit" makes significant contributions to Howard University's overall mission.

At Howard University, we prioritize well-being and professional growth.

Here is what we offer:

• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support
• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements
• Financial Wellness: Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match
• Professional Development: Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths
• Additional Perks: Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant company culture

Join Howard University and thrive with us

BASIC FUNCTION:

The Director of Real Estate Finance plays a pivotal leadership role in the financial planning, investment strategy, and execution of complex real estate transactions within the Real Estate Development and Capital Asset Management (REDCAM) portfolio. Reporting to the Vice President and Chief Real Estate Officer, this role is responsible for guiding financial strategy for student housing, commercial development, acquisitions, ground leases, and joint ventures in support of the University's strategic mission.

This position requires advanced financial acumen, a deep understanding of institutional real estate, and the ability to lead through highly complex development initiatives in alignment with the University's strategic plan and the approved Campus Master Plan. The Director oversees financial analysis, long range capital planning, transaction structuring, and performance monitoring to ensure the portfolio supports institutional goals, adheres to risk parameters, and maintains financial sustainability. Additionally, the Director must create and support an environment that fosters teamwork, leadership development, integrity, and service responsiveness, while effectively managing relationships with business partners, regulatory agencies, and internal and external stakeholders.

SUPERVISORY ACCOUNTABILITY:

The incumbent is responsible for overseeing the successful completion of projects, and is therefore expected to ensure all contributing parties remain on task, on time, and on budget. While this position does not have formal direct reports, the Director leads cross-functional deal teams composed of analysts, external advisors, consultants, and university stakeholders.

NATURE AND SCOPE:

Internal contacts include executives, administrators, faculty, students, and staff of the university at large.

External contacts include housing partners, investors and lenders. consultants, contractors, local regulatory agencies, historical societies, local surrounding communities, representatives from other colleges and universities, visitors, and the general public.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES:

Financial Analysis and Reporting:

• Conduct comprehensive financial analyses and prepare reports to assess key performance indicators and operational efficiencies.

Strategic Financial Planning:

• Long-term financial planning for the University's real estate portfolio that anticipates and responds to legislative changes affecting higher education specifically. Develop scenario based financial models and sensitivity analysis in coordination with the Office of Data Analytics and External Affairs that incorporate potential regulatory changes, mitigate risk, and capitalize on new opportunities.

Budgeting and Forecasting:

• Support the budgeting process, implementing financial models for accurate forecasting.

Investment and Strategic Planning and Analysis:

• Support pre-transaction analysis and due diligence, including financial modeling and pro forma analysis, cost-benefit or return on investment analysis, feasibility analysis, market research, and review of third party reports such as market demand studies, environmental assessments, appraisals, facility assessment reports, among others.
• Evaluate new investment opportunities and support the development of strategies for long-term needs and uses of the University's real property assets including acquisitions, development, leasing, and disposition of assets.
• Review all real estate agreements, documents, and contracts working with the Office of General Counsel to ensure compliance with the university strategic plans and procedures, and compliance with pertinent District of Columbia and Maryland laws, as applicable.

Project Support:

• Provide financial guidance to enhance property management financial efficiency and cost control. Provides support for a portfolio of real estate projects, entailing development, construction, property management, legal, and financial components.

Stakeholder Communication:

• Prepare and clearly communicate transaction analysis, financial data and strategies to university stakeholders, regarding structure, economics, mission benefits, progress, etc.

Academic Collaboration:

• Works collaboratively with the offices of the Chief Financial Officer and other members of the Administrative Services Leadership Team.

Presentation Support:

• Support the preparation of RFQ/RFP responses for all bids, ensuring compliance to policy and procedure, including zoning laws and securing public approval.
• Preparation of materials and presentations for the Facilities and Real Estate Committee and the Board of Trustees.

Administrative Support:

• Provide administrative support as needed, including contract review and revision in coordination with outside counsel, and tracking and managing project budgets. Oversee these functions through to completion, ensuring compliance with all University processes and procedures.

Perform other related duties as assigned.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

Analytical and Strategic Thinking:

• Ability to perform complex financial underwriting, and conduct complex structuring including joint ventures, development, and debt instruments.
• Knowledge of underwriting and closing debt and equity transactions locally, regionally, and nationally.
• Must possess advanced analytical skills in evaluating real estate transactions.
• Ability to gather and thoroughly analyze information in order to make well-founded recommendations to the University's Senior Administration.

Communication, Organizational, and Interpersonal Skills:

• Demonstrate the ability to use sound judgment and to be an effective decision maker.
• Ability to convey complex financial information clearly and build strong relationships with university and external stakeholders.
• Strong attention to detail, and the ability to independently manage a transaction pipeline.
• Excellent interpersonal, written, verbal, and analytical skills.
• Ability to establish and maintain harmonious work relationships with students, staff, faculty, University officials, and the general public.
• Ability to develop knowledge of, respect for, and skills to engage with those of other cultures or backgrounds is required.

Innovation and Problem-Solving:

• Creative approach to improving financial performance and operational processes.
• Demonstrated ability to multi-task; to be a team player; and to be flexible and adaptable to change.

Technology Proficiency:

• Proven strength in the use of spreadsheets, database, and presentation applications, including Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint. Demonstrated proficiency in financial modeling and analysis tools.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Bachelor's Degree in Finance, Real Estate, Economics, or related field

MBA with a concentration in Finance, Real Estate, or related field

Minimum 12-15 years of related work experience, including real estate focused banking, development, finance, underwriting, structed finance, fundamental credit analysis, consulting, urban planning, and/or public policy; including experience with institutional or public-sector projects.

CFA or CAIA candidate status is strongly preferred.

15 years of related work experience may be substituted in lieu of educational qualifications.

Strong analytical, financial modeling, and reporting skills.

Excellent communication, leadership, and project management abilities.

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and financial software.

Compliance Salary Range Disclosure

$120,000 - $130,000