Director of Lease-Up and Occupancy

M'akola Housing Society•Langford, BC

112d•Onsite

About The Position

The Director of Lease-Up & Occupancy will lead the strategic planning and execution of large-scale residential lease-ups while overseeing occupancy, marketing, branding, and tenant placement processes across the organization’s housing portfolio. This position plays a critical leadership role in ensuring successful project launches, sustainable occupancy levels, and housing delivery that reflects the organization’s mission and commitment to community. The position includes external and public-facing responsibilities, representing M’akola at conferences, community events, and through participation in various committees and working groups. It requires close collaboration with the Leadership and Senior Leadership team and other organizations and stakeholders. This position is full-time, permanent, Monday – Friday, in-person based out of the M’Akola’s office in Langford located at 104-550 Goldstream Avenue.

Requirements

Post-secondary education in Business Administration, Housing Management, Urban Planning, Communications, or a related field (or equivalent combination of education and experience).
Minimum 7–10 years of progressive experience in housing, property management, or real estate development, preferably within non-profit or affordable housing.
Demonstrated experience leading large-scale residential lease-ups.
Strong background in marketing, branding, website content oversight, and community outreach.
Experience working closely with Indigenous communities and diverse stakeholders.
Proven ability to develop and implement policies, procedures, and operational frameworks.
Detailed knowledge of applicable legislation and dispute resolution mechanisms of the Residential Tenancy Act and applicable provisions of the Human Rights Act.
Ability to implement and maintain property management software, tools including ARCORI and BC Housing Registry.
Exceptional communication skills, both verbal and written.
Highly motivated and self-directed, with ability to work independently, manage projects, proactively solve problems, develop ideas, execute on deliverables, and appropriately seeks out support when required.
Exhibits Cultural sensitivity and awareness.
Provide a clear Criminal Record Check.
Willing to travel up to 20% of the time.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage all lease-up initiatives for new and existing developments.
Develop and implement comprehensive lease-up plans, timelines, and occupancy targets.
Coordinate cross-functionally with Development, Operations, Maintenance, and Finance teams to ensure readiness and alignment.
Monitor and report on occupancy performance, vacancy rates, absorption timelines, and leasing metrics.
Build, mentor, and supervise the Lease-Up & Occupancy team.
Identify risks and implement proactive strategies to achieve and maintain full and timely occupancy.
Oversee marketing strategies for new and existing properties.
Guide website content related to housing availability, application processes, and community engagement.
Strengthen organizational branding to reflect Indigenous values, culture, and community impact.
Develop promotional materials and outreach strategies to support successful and timely lease-ups.
Ensure messaging is clear, culturally appropriate, and aligned with organizational standards.
Build and maintain strong working relationships with Indigenous communities, government partners, funders, and service providers.
Represent the organization at community meetings, housing forums, and partnership discussions.
Support transparent communication and engagement throughout the lease-up process.
Create and implement departmental policies and procedures related to lease-up, tenant intake, waitlists, eligibility screening, and occupancy management.
Develop, implement, and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) related to lease-up and occupancy, including unit turnover timelines, vacancy rates, application processing times, and lease conversion rates.
Track and report on performance against established targets, including achieving unit occupancy within 30 days of turnover.
Ensure compliance with funding agreements, regulatory requirements, and organizational policies.
Establish standardized processes, documentation practices, and reporting frameworks.
Foster a collaborative, culturally safe, and high-performing work environment.
Provide training and guidance on best practices in leasing, tenant relations, compliance, and customer service.
Other duties as assigned.