At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team to drive affordable housing initiatives and urban renewal projects.
- Company: Fast-growing woman-owned business making a real impact in community development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and retirement options.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to ethical leadership and community service.
- Why this job: Shape the future of housing for over 13,000 residents in Norfolk.
- Qualifications: Master’s degree preferred; 7-10 years of executive leadership experience required.
Summit Federal Services, LLC (SFS) with headquarters in Oakland, Maryland, is a fast-growing woman-owned Small Business and HUBZone company with an outstanding record of performance providing more effective and efficient acquisition, business process, training, IT, administrative and security services to multiple federal agencies.
The Executive Director serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Norfolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority, the largest redevelopment and housing authority in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Reporting directly to a 9-member Board of Commissioners, the Executive Director is responsible for the strategic leadership, financial oversight, administrative operations, and regulatory compliance of a massive urban housing network.
The ideal candidate will manage a $115 million operating budget and a dedicated staff of over 200 employees, serving more than 13,000 residents across Norfolk. This role demands an accomplished leader who can champion affordable housing initiatives, spearhead complex urban renewal and real estate development projects, and ensure unwavering adherence to local, state, and federal U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) guidelines.
Core Knowledge & Skills
- Regulatory & Compliance Savvy: Advanced understanding of HUD regulations, Fair Housing laws, and state/federal procurement rules.
- Fiscal Accountability: Proven track record of managing multi-million-dollar operational and capital budgets with pristine auditing standards.
- Ethical Leadership: Uncompromising personal integrity with a history of implementing strict internal controls, standardized operating procedures, and transparent governance.
- Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the presence and diplomacy required to navigate complex political and socioeconomic environments.
Working Conditions & Compensation
- Environment: Dynamic office setting located in downtown Norfolk, VA, requiring frequent travel to NRHA housing sites, community meetings, and national housing conferences.
- Compensation: Highly competitive executive salary commensurate with experience, paired with a comprehensive benefits package, including participation in the Virginia Retirement System (VRS) or similar executive retirement paths.
Experience, Knowledge and Skills:
- Degree: A Master’s Degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, Urban Planning, or a closely related field is highly preferred (Bachelor’s degree required).
- Executive Experience: Minimum of 7 to 10 years of progressive, senior-level executive leadership experience within a Public Housing Authority (PHA), redevelopment agency, or large-scale community development organization.
- Housing Expertise: Deep, verifiable expertise in managing HUD-funded programs, public housing operations, and real estate development frameworks.
SFS is an equal opportunity employer regardless of race, color, religion, creed, sex, marital status, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, on-the-job injury, sexual orientation, political affiliation or belief. Employment decisions are made without consideration of these or any other factors that employers are prohibited by law from considering. Any discriminatory action can be a cause for disciplinary action. SFS also prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and will reasonably accommodate applicants with a disability, upon request, and will also ensure reasonable accommodation for employees with a disability.
Executive Director in Norfolk employer: Summit Federal Services
Summit Federal Services, LLC (SFS) is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant downtown of Norfolk, VA, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters growth and innovation. As a woman-owned Small Business and HUBZone company, SFS prioritises employee development through comprehensive training programs and a commitment to ethical leadership, ensuring that every team member can thrive while making a meaningful impact on the community. With competitive compensation and a robust benefits package, including participation in the Virginia Retirement System, SFS stands out as a rewarding place to build a career in public service and housing development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Executive Director in Norfolk
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Summit Federal Services, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Summit Federal Services and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Executive Director in Norfolk
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Summit Federal Services and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Summit Federal Services
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Summit Federal Services, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Summit Federal Services.
