Director of Housing & Advocacy

YWCA Greater Newburyport•Newburyport, MA

2d•$68,000 - $72,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Housing provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the YWCA's affordable housing portfolio while serving as a visible advocate for fair, affordable, and equitable housing throughout the Greater Newburyport region. Grounded in the YWCA's mission of eliminating racism and empowering women, the Director of Housing ensures that all housing programs are managed through a trauma-informed, resident-centered, and mission-driven approach that promotes dignity, stability, and opportunity for individuals and families. This position combines property management leadership with community engagement, housing advocacy, and program development. The Director serves as a subject matter expert on affordable housing policies, regulations, and best practices and works collaboratively with community partners, public officials, funders, and residents to strengthen housing opportunities and address barriers to stable housing.

Requirements

Minimum of three years of experience in affordable housing management, housing policy, community development, or related field.
Experience with affordable housing funding and compliance programs, including LIHTC, HOME, DHCD, FHLB, and other public and private funding sources.
LIHTC certification or ability to obtain certification within six months of hire.
Demonstrated knowledge of fair housing laws, housing regulations, and current affordable housing trends and policies.
Strong relationship-building, advocacy, and public speaking skills.
Commitment to the YWCA's mission of eliminating racism and empowering women.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Social Work, Public Policy, Urban Planning, Community Development, Business Administration, or a related field preferred (but not required)
Experience in project planning, program development, and cross-sector collaboration preferred.
Experience working with trauma-informed, mission-based, or supportive housing programs preferred.

Responsibilities

Provide strategic leadership and oversight of the YWCA's affordable housing portfolio, ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations and funding requirements.
Oversee property operations, including supervision of leasing, recertifications, waitlists, financial performance, reporting, and resident services.
Supervise housing staff and collaborate with facilities personnel to ensure safe, high-quality housing environments.
Lead housing programs through a trauma-informed, resident-centered lens that promotes dignity, stability, and belonging.
Foster inclusive communities that support residents' long-term housing success and advance the YWCA's mission of eliminating racism and empowering women.
Collaborate with Director of Support Services, property managers, service providers and community partners to support resident wellbeing and prevent unnecessary housing instability.
Serve as the YWCA's public ambassador and a leading voice on affordable and fair housing issues in the Greater Newburyport region.
Build relationships with municipal leaders, housing organizations, funders, and community stakeholders to advance housing opportunities and partnerships.
Monitor emerging housing trends and policies and advocate for equitable housing practices that increase access and reduce disparities.
Partner with the Program Development Officer to identify, develop, and advance new housing and community-based initiatives.
Support the research, planning, grant development, and implementation of new projects that align with the YWCA's strategic priorities and mission.
Position the YWCA as a leading voice in regional housing advocacy and innovation.
Participate as a member of the YWCA leadership team and contribute to organizational strategy, cross-departmental initiatives, and mission advancement.
Manage Housing Department staff, including property managers and compliance managers
Perform other duties as assigned in support of the YWCA's housing objectives and community impact.