District Manager

District Manager

The District Manager is responsible for the operational, financial, regulatory, and physical performance of a portfolio of affordable and multifamily housing communities. This position provides leadership and oversight to Community Managers and site teams, ensuring properties are operated in accordance with organizational standards, owner expectations, and all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

The District Manager oversees property operations, budget performance, occupancy goals, resident relations, compliance requirements, facility maintenance, and staff development across assigned communities. This role works collaboratively with internal departments, regulatory agencies, investors, ownership representatives, vendors, and site staff to support the effective management and long-term sustainability of the housing portfolio.

The position requires a thorough understanding of affordable housing programs and regulations, strong financial and operational management skills, and the ability to manage multiple priorities within a multi-site environment.

Essential Job Functions:

Operations and Financial Management

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of multiple residential communities to ensure efficient, compliant, and financially successful performance.
• Achieve budgeted financial objectives through effective revenue management, cost control, and operational efficiency initiatives.
• Develop annual operating budgets, capital planning recommendations, and marketing strategies for assigned properties.
• Analyze financial reports, operating statements, occupancy trends, delinquency reports, and key performance indicators to identify opportunities and risks.
• Prepare and present clear, concise operational and financial reports to senior leadership and ownership partners.
• Maximize rental income while ensuring expenses remain within approved budget parameters.
• Partner with corporate leadership to develop and execute strategies that support long-term portfolio success.

Property Operations and Asset Preservation

• Ensure all properties are maintained in a safe, attractive, and marketable condition.
• Monitor preventive maintenance programs and capital improvement initiatives.
• Ensure apartment turnover standards are achieved, and vacant units are prepared efficiently for occupancy.
• Conduct regular site inspections to maintain quality standards related to curb appeal, building systems, resident common areas, offices, and apartment interiors.
• Oversee service request performance and maintenance responsiveness to ensure resident satisfaction and operational excellence.

Leasing, Occupancy, and Resident Relations

• Establish occupancy, leasing, and resident retention goals for each property.
• Monitor leasing activities to ensure compliance with company policies, Fair Housing requirements, and regulatory guidelines.
• Review and support innovative marketing, outreach, and resident retention initiatives that drive occupancy and community engagement.
• Foster a resident-centered culture that promotes respect, responsiveness, and exceptional customer service.
• Ensure resident concerns and complaints are addressed promptly, professionally, and effectively.
• Support and monitor lease renewal efforts to maximize resident satisfaction and long-term occupancy.

Affordable Housing Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations governing affordable housing programs.
• Maintain thorough knowledge of HUD, LIHTC, USDA Rural Development, DHCR, HFA, and other affordable housing program requirements.
• Oversee property file compliance, reporting requirements, recertifications, and regulatory audits.
• Coordinate and participate in agency inspections, audits, Management and Occupancy Reviews, REAC inspections, and investor visits.
• Ensure timely preparation and submission of rent increase requests, regulatory filings, energy conservation plans, and other required documentation.
• Partner with site teams to maintain a culture of compliance and continuous improvement.

Leadership and Team Development

• Lead, coach, and develop Community Managers, Maintenance Supervisors, and on-site staff to achieve organizational goals.
• Foster a positive and collaborative work environment focused on accountability, teamwork, and service excellence.
• Partner with Human Resources and operational leadership on recruitment, onboarding, performance management, employee relations, succession planning, and staff retention.
• Complete and document performance evaluations, coaching conversations, corrective actions, and other personnel-related activities.
• Identify staff development opportunities and ensure employees receive appropriate training related to affordable housing, safety, operations, and leadership development.
• Promote and reinforce workplace safety practices and regulatory compliance across all communities.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Ensure accurate and timely completion of reports, correspondence, regulatory submissions, and operational records.
• Maintain effective communication with property owners, regulatory agencies, vendors, contractors, and corporate leadership.
• Collaborate with Procurement, Accounting, Facilities, and other internal departments to support operational needs.
• Attend and actively participate in organizational meetings, training sessions, leadership discussions, and professional development opportunities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Comprehensive knowledge of affordable housing programs and regulations.
• Strong financial analysis, budgeting, forecasting, and reporting skills.
• Ability to analyze operational performance and implement strategic improvements.
• Excellent leadership, coaching, and team-building abilities.
• Strong organizational and time management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Exceptional customer service and conflict-resolution skills.
• Strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products and property management software.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment, maintain confidentiality, and make effective decisions in a fast-paced environment.

Education and Experience:

• High School Diploma or GED required.
• Associate's or bachelor's degree in business administration, Real Estate, Property Management, Public Administration, Finance, or a related field preferred.
• Minimum seven (7) years of progressive property management experience, including affordable housing management.
• Minimum five (5) years of multi-site leadership, regional management, or supervisory experience.
• Accredited Residential Manager (ARM), Certified Property Manager (CPM), or equivalent industry designation is preferred upon hire; if not currently held, required to be obtained within five years.
• Equivalent combinations of education, certifications, and directly related experience will be considered.

Certifications

The following certifications are required:

• Certified Occupancy Specialist (COS)
• Tax Credit Certification (LIHTC)
• Certified Credit Compliance Professional (C3P) or equivalent
• STAR Certification

All experience and education requirements, except when required by federal, state, or local laws or requirements, may be waived at the discretion of management with the approval of the Chief Executive Officer, in collaboration with Human Resources.

Physical Requirements/Working Conditions:

• Regular travel between assigned communities is required.
• Must possess a valid driver's license and vehicle insurance.
• Must be able to walk properties, climb stairs, inspect apartments and common areas, and occasionally lift or move items weighing up to 20 pounds.
• Must be available to respond to property emergencies and business-critical situations as needed.
• Use of company-issued communication devices may be required.
• Sedentary working environment
• Ability to reach above shoulder level.
• Ability to turn/twist upper body.
• Able to use hand repetitive action for fine manipulating, keyboarding and typing.

Corporate Qualifications/Expectations:

• Adhere to all CDS Life Transitions, Inc. policies and procedures.
• Adhere to the Agency Mission, Vision, Shared Values, and Customer Service Standards.
• Attend mandatory education and training modules as scheduled; obtain and maintain all required certifications/training by State regulations and CDS policy
• Act as a professional representative of CDS Life Transitions, Inc. in regard to appearance, behavior, temperament, communication, language, and dress.

The statements herein are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed but are not to be seen as a complete list of responsibilities, duties, skills, required of personnel so classified.