Director of Real Estate Development

Avesta•Portland, ME

2d•$125,000 - $140,000•Hybrid

About The Position

Are you passionate about building vibrant communities and expanding access to quality homes? Avesta Housing is seeking a dynamic Director of Real Estate Development to lead affordable and market-rate housing projects across Maine and New Hampshire. In this leadership role, you’ll oversee a skilled development team, manage projects from concept to completion, and collaborate with partners to deliver impactful new construction and rehabilitation initiatives. Your expertise in affordable housing finance, project management, and strategic planning will help drive Avesta’s mission to create and maintain quality, affordable homes. This role is ideal if you: Enjoy leading and mentoring teams to achieve ambitious goals Have deep experience in real estate development and creative financing Thrive in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment Want to make a meaningful impact on communities and residents About Avesta Housing Avesta Housing is a local leader in housing development, property management, and assisted living solutions. Founded in 1972, our nonprofit organization serves individuals and families in need of quality affordable housing in Maine and New Hampshire. What it’s Like to Work Here Our team members have positive attitudes, are creative problem-solvers, and share a dedication to housing equity and inclusion for all. Our shared commitment to improving the lives of others and strengthening our communities through affordable housing gives us purpose and inspires our best work. Our workplace culture and continuous opportunities for growth have resulted in Avesta Housing being a popular place to work. Our employees selected Avesta Housing as a 2025 Best Places to Work in Maine because of our opportunities for career advancement, friendly workplace culture, impressive benefits and compensation, responsive managers, and company values! What We're Looking For The person who is ready for this opportunity will generally offer these attributes: Strong understanding of real estate finance, development regulations, and public funding programs. Exceptional project management and organizational skills; able to manage competing priorities and deadlines. Strong analytical and financial modeling ability. Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills, including negotiation and presentation abilities. Collaborative, inclusive, and mission-oriented leadership style. Ability to work independently while fostering a team-based environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Real Estate Development, Urban Planning, Business, or related field required.
Minimum 7–10 years of progressive experience in affordable housing or mixed-use real estate development, with responsibility for multiple concurrent projects.
Demonstrated success managing complex affordable housing projects through all phases of development.
Experience with public and private financing sources including LIHTC, Historic Tax Credits, HOME, CDBG, and conventional debt.
Supervisory or team leadership experience required; additional experience mentoring staff preferred.
Prior experience in nonprofit, mission-driven, and/or community development settings strongly preferred.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant project management or financial software.
Valid driver’s license and ability to travel to project sites and partner meetings required.

Nice To Haves

Professional certifications in real estate development, construction management, or affordable housing (e.g., HCCP, CPM, CCIM, or equivalent) preferred.