CEO – Alexandria, VA

Serc-Nahro; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 300,000 - 350,000; Full time

Job summary

Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority (ARHA) is seeking an outstanding leader and manager to continue its 85-year history of progressive public housing and affordable housing initiatives. The role focuses on mixed-income developments, economic development, sustainable communities, and resident self-sufficiency.

The successful candidate will oversee a $61.7 million budget, lead a 93-person staff, and work with a nine-member Board of Commissioners to advance strategic goals through

Qualifications

• Minimum seven (7) years in public administration, public finance, real estate or property management with multifamily housing or redevelopment experience.
• At least 10 years in professional program management with 7 years in senior-level public housing or real estate roles.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.

Skills

Public housing leadership

Strategic planning

Budget oversight

Change management

Education

Bachelor's degree in public administration, business administration, urban planning, or related field

Master's degree preferred

Job description

Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority.

The Alexandria Redevelopment and Housing Authority (ARHA) and its Virginia Housing Development affiliate is seeking an outstanding leader and manager to continue its 85-year history of being a highly progressive, visionary public housing / affordable housing pacesetter. ARHA is well-positioned to continue this strategic leadership in affordable housing with new five-year strategic goals focused on mixed-income / mixed-finance developments, economic development, sustainable communities, resident self-sufficiency / quality of life, and financial viability. The agency is governed by a nine-member Board of Commissioners, is staffed with 93 employees, and operates in 2026 with a budget of $61.7 million.

Positioned for Mission Success

• $100 million in affordable housing development completed since 2010, $240 million in the pipeline for affordable housing development, 3 properties slated for redevelopment in 2027
• 40% of the ARHA housing stock has been replaced or renovated
• 1,262 ARHA-owned housing units, 2,200 housing choice vouchers. ROSS and FSS Programs
• 17 housing excellence awards from industry, governmental, and private sector sources
• 76 (standard performer)SEMAP score / INSPIRE scores ranged from 43% to 80%

Situated in a Vibrant Community

Alexandria Virginia is located on the western bank of the Potomac River directly across from Washington, D.C. Founded in 1749, Alexandria has a long history of commerce, governmental operations, professional services providers, and vibrant neighborhoods. Its population of 169,600 is recognized for its exceptional diversity and high educational levels with 65 percent of adults having completed at least four years of college. The median family income is $178,035 and the median household income is $124,593. Alexandria has an abundance of cultural amenities, historic districts, educational opportunities, and park / recreation facilities that provide a wealth of options for residents. The 2026 Niche Best Places Rankings place Alexandria as the 10 th Best City to Retire, the 12 th Healthiest Place to Live and the 12 th Best City for Young Professionals. The community is home to many federal agencies including the recent relocation of the HUD headquarters. Alexandria continues to invest significantly in affordable housing and other redevelopment initiatives, especially higher-density developments along the Metrorail corridor. Most of these development initiatives include significant engagement and funding with ARHA. Alexandria's financial strength is reflected in its AAA bond rating which is the highest available for municipalities.

Salary, Benefits, and the Position Description

• A salary in the low- to mid- $300,000 range depending on qualifications and experience
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university in public administration, business administration, urban planning, community development, or related field is required. A Master's degree in one of the above disciplines is preferred
• Minimum seven (7) years of progressively responsible professional experience in public administration, public finance, real estate or property management, or a related field involving management of multifamily housing or redevelopment projects
• At least 10 years of professional program management work experience, including 7 years of senior-level management experience in public housing, affordable housing, and / or real estate / redevelopment environment
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
• Finalists will undergo academic, work history, and salary history verification, along with criminal and credit background checks and employment verification.