Job Description

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Position: Chief Operating Officer
Organization: Elm City Communities
Location: New Haven, CT (On-site)
Reports to: President & CEO

Who We Are
Elm City Communities, the Housing Authority of the City of New Haven (HANH)—together with its real estate development arm, The Glendower Group, Inc., and its property management subsidiary, 360 Management Group, comprises a mission-driven, full-service affordable housing enterprise. Collectively, these organizations steward 800 public housing units, 1,500 LIHTC units, and deliver innovative, resident-centered housing solutions that strengthen communities across the New Haven region.

As a leader in modern affordable housing, ECC/HANH is committed to expanding opportunity, promoting housing stability, and investing in resilient, thriving neighborhoods.

The Opportunity
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) is a pivotal, enterprise-wide executive leader and the principal operational partner to the President & CEO. Responsible for driving alignment, performance, and integration across Elm City Communities/HANH, The Glendower Group, and 360 Management Group, the COO ensures that strategy is translated into disciplined execution and measurable impact.

The ideal candidate is a seasoned, systems-oriented executive with a demonstrated record of operational excellence; a data-driven approach; and someone who combines strategic acuity with an action-oriented mindset and deep commitment to mission. The COO will lead with clarity, foster a culture of accountability and collaboration, and champion a data-informed approach to decision-making that ensures the highest quality of service to residents.

What You’ll Do
STRATEGIC EXECUTION & ENTERPRISE PERFORMANCE

• Partner with the President/CEO to translate the organization's vision and strategic plan into clear, measurable departmental goals and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Develop and implement robust performance management systems across all departments, including regular tracking, reporting, and analysis of KPIs.
• Oversee the development of annual operating budgets for each department, ensuring alignment with strategic priorities and fiscal responsibility.
• Lead the implementation of change management initiatives to improve organizational effectiveness and efficiency.
• Drive a culture of accountability and data-driven decision-making throughout the organization.

OPERATIONAL LEADERSHIP & ORGANIZATIONAL INTEGRATION

• Oversee day-to-day operations across all organizational entities, including property management, maintenance, resident services, development, and administrative support services.
• Ensure seamless coordination and collaboration between departments and entities to maximize organizational effectiveness.
• Drive operational efficiency through standardization, process improvement, and technology adoption.
• Provide executive oversight for real estate development projects, ensuring adherence to schedules, budgets, and quality standards.

EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP & DEVELOPMENT

• Provide leadership and mentorship to the senior management team, fostering a high-performing and collaborative environment.
• Cultivate a positive and inclusive organizational culture that values innovation, continuous improvement, and resident-centric service.
• Promote effective communication and information sharing across departments and organizational entities.

COMPLIANCE, RISK MANAGEMENT & ORGANIZATIONAL STEWARDSHIP

• Ensure organizational compliance with HUD regulations, federal/state laws, and program requirements.
• Oversee agency-wide risk management strategies and internal controls.
• Monitor and address regulatory changes that impact organizational operations.
• Collaborate with legal counsel on regulatory matters, contracts, and risk mitigation.
• Lead emergency preparedness and business continuity planning.

What You Bring
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Master's degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Real Estate, or related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in affordable housing, real estate, or related industries.
• At least 5 years of executive-level experience, preferably in public housing or affordable housing organizations.
• Demonstrated success in managing complex operations with multiple business lines.
• Experience working with governmental agencies, particularly HUD-funded programs.
• Understanding of LIHTC, RAD, and other affordable housing financing mechanisms.

SKILLS & COMPETENCIES

• Strategic Thinking & Execution: Ability to translate strategic vision into actionable operational plans and drive results.
• Performance Management: Expertise in developing and implementing performance management systems, KPIs, and data analysis.
• Operational Excellence: Strong understanding of operational best practices and a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Financial Management: Proven ability to manage budgets, analyze financial data, and ensure fiscal responsibility.
• Leadership & Collaboration: Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to build high-performing teams and foster collaboration.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills and the ability to build strong relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Commitment to Mission: Passion for Elm City Communities’ mission and a dedication to serving the residents of New Haven.

Why Join Us
We offer a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and the opportunity to work in a mission-driven environment that’s shaping the future of housing in New Haven. You’ll also have room to grow professionally and help lead an organization committed to equity, innovation, and community.