Chief Operations Director

Job Description

Job Description

Be part of our mission to provide safe, affordable housing and stronger communities. Join the Fort Walton Beach Housing Authority team!”

The Fort Walton Beach Housing Authority (FWBHA) has been serving the Fort Walton Beach and Okaloosa County community since 1968. We provide safe, affordable housing and rental assistance to families, seniors, and veterans through programs such as Public Housing, Housing Choice Vouchers, and Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH). In addition, we own and operate two affordable housing communities , Sound Side Apartments (200 units) and Church Street Apartments (12 units), offering market-based rental options.

At FWBHA, we are dedicated to supporting our residents with quality housing and opportunities that promote stability, independence, and stronger communities. Join us and be part of a team making a real difference.

What We Offer:

·          Comprehensive insurance coverage – Medical, dental, vision, and life insurance provided.

·          Retirement benefits – 401(k) retirement plan with a 8% employer contribution.

·          Paid time off – Vacation days, sick days, and 11 company-paid holidays.

·          Meaningful work – The chance to make a positive impact by supporting families, seniors, and veterans in our community.

What We Are Looking For:

We are seeking an experienced and results-driven Chief Operations Director to oversee the daily operations of the Fort Walton Beach Housing Authority. This leadership role provides direction for Housing Management, Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program administration, Maintenance, and Contract Administration while ensuring compliance with HUD, federal, state, and local regulations.

The Chief Operations Director will play a key role in maintaining high PHAS and SEMAP scores, implementing strategic initiatives, developing policies, and supporting Board and community relations. The ideal candidate will be a strong leader with comprehensive HUD program knowledge, excellent communication skills, and the ability to foster collaboration across teams and with external partners.

In this role, you will:

• Oversee day-to-day operations of Public Housing, Section 8/HCV, Maintenance, and other assigned programs.
• Manage supervisory staff to ensure program compliance with FWBHA policies and HUD regulations.
• Monitor and interpret federal regulations affecting operations and make recommendations for compliance.
• Develop and oversee systems for Contract Administration, including performance monitoring and approvals.
• Prepare reports and communications for government agencies, contractors, and internal stakeholders.
• Support Board of Commissioners meetings with presentations, reports, and program updates.
• Address tenant, landlord, and staff concerns, ensuring timely and fair resolution.
• Develop marketing strategies for Public Housing and HCV to meet utilization goals.
• Collaborate with Finance Department on budgets, cost analysis, and forecasts.
• Ensure compliance with Section 3, Davis-Bacon, ADA, OSHA, and other applicable requirements.
• Oversee HUD reporting such as NSPIRE, PIC, VMS, MTCS, and Action Plans.
• Lead and mentor staff, including training, evaluations, and professional development.
• Maintain positive working relationships with HUD, contractors, vendors, community partners, and local officials.
• Support nonprofit affiliates, LLCs, and real estate initiatives as assigned.

What You Need:

·         Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Public Administration, Housing Management, or related field.

·         5–7 years of progressively responsible experience in HUD housing programs and nonprofit housing management.

·         5–7 years of supervisory/leadership experience required.

·         Knowledge of LIHTC, RAD, or affordable housing development preferred.

·         Strong understanding of HUD regulations, reporting systems, and compliance requirements.

·         Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.

·         Ability to resolve conflicts, build strong relationships, and adapt to changing priorities.

·         Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and housing/accounting software.

If you’re interested in joining our team and being a part of our continued commitment to providing safe, affordable housing and strengthening the community we serve, Please Apply Now .