Housing Policy Director

We are hiring 1-2 positions to expand our policy, research, and advocacy efforts. Solutions exist to strengthen households and neighborhoods, and to expand nonprofit real estate ownership. Join our team!

The Chicago Rehab Network (CRN) is a multi-cultural, multi-racial coalition of community-based organizations focused on revitalizing neighborhoods through affordable housing development and rehabilitation for low-income and special needs residents.

Housing is foundational. A stable, accessible, and affordable place to live is a requisite building block for educational attainment, good health, safety and a ready workforce.

CRN and its members are committed to empowering communities without displacement and advancing a strong affordable and accessible housing movement in Chicago, Illinois, and nationally. The coalition emphasizes community control of housing resources by low-income residents to foster long-term stability and equity. CRN works collaboratively to meet the needs and promote the shared goals of its members, supporting socially and economically viable communities.

The Housing Policy Director is a full-time, on-site role based in Chicago. This position leads the development, analysis, and advocacy of housing policies that support affordable and accessible housing, community control, and anti-displacement strategies. Day-to-day responsibilities include researching local, state, and federal housing policies, drafting policy recommendations and position papers, and preparing briefings for internal stakeholders and external partners.

The Housing Policy Director collaborates closely with member organizations, community leaders, and public officials to advance CRN’s policy agenda through meetings, hearings, and public forums. The role also involves tracking legislation, coordinating advocacy campaigns, developing educational materials and presentations, and representing CRN in coalitions and working groups.

• Policy development and analysis skills, including experience researching housing, community development, or related public policy issues.
• Advocacy and coalition-building skills, with the ability to engage community organizations, public officials, and stakeholders around shared policy goals.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills for drafting policy papers, reports, testimony, and public-facing materials.
• Project management and organizational skills to coordinate multiple initiatives, campaigns, and deadlines.
• Knowledge of affordable housing, community development, and anti-displacement strategies.
• Demonstrated commitment to racial and social equity, community empowerment, and serving low-income and special needs populations.
• Ability to attend meetings, hearings, and community events as needed.
• Bachelor’s degree in public policy, urban planning, law, social work, government, or a related field; advanced degree or equivalent experience is preferred.
• Experience in nonprofit, government, or advocacy organizations is beneficial, especially in housing or community development.