Director of Finance, Real Estate and Capital Asset Development

Director of Finance, Real Estate and Capital Asset Development

Direct the financial planning, investment strategy, and execution of complex real estate transactions within Howard University’s Real Estate Development and Capital Asset Management (REDCAM) portfolio. Report to the Vice President and Chief Real Estate Officer.

Benefits

• Health & Wellness:
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental health support

• Work-Life Balance: PTO, paid holidays, flexible work arrangements

• Financial Wellness:
Competitive salary, 403(b) with company match

• Professional Development:
Ongoing training, tuition reimbursement, and career advancement paths

• Additional Perks:
Wellness programs, commuter benefits, and a vibrant campus culture

Basic Function

Head the financial strategy for student housing, commercial development, acquisitions, ground leases, and joint ventures in support of the University’s strategic mission. Oversee financial analysis, long‑range capital planning, transaction structuring, and performance monitoring.

Supervisory Accountability

• Ensure all contributing parties remain on task, on time, and on budget.

• Lead cross‑functional deal teams composed of analysts, external advisors, consultants, and university stakeholders (no formal direct reports).

Nature and Scope

• Internal contacts include executives, administrators, faculty, students, and staff.

• External contacts include housing partners, investors, lenders, consultants, contractors, local regulatory agencies, historical societies, surrounding communities, and other universities.

Principal Accountabilities

Financial Analysis and Reporting

• Conduct comprehensive financial analyses and prepare reports to assess key performance indicators and operational efficiencies.

Strategic Financial Planning

• Long‑term financial planning for the University’s real estate portfolio that anticipates and responds to legislative changes affecting higher education.

• Develop scenario‑based financial models and sensitivity analysis in coordination with the Office of Data Analytics and External Affairs.

Budgeting and Forecasting

• Support the budgeting process, implementing accurate forecasting financial models.

Investment and Strategic Analysis

• Support pre‑transaction analysis and due diligence, including financial modeling and pro‑forma analysis.

• Evaluate new investment opportunities and support the development of strategies for long‑term real‑property needs.

• Review all real‑estate agreements and contracts with the Office of General Counsel for compliance with university and legal requirements.

Project Support

• Provide financial guidance to enhance property management financial efficiency and cost control.

• Support a portfolio of real‑estate projects (development, construction, property management, legal, and financial).

Stakeholder Communication

• Prepare and communicate transaction analysis, financial data, and strategies to university stakeholders.

Academic Collaboration

• Work collaboratively with the offices of the Chief Financial Officer and other Administrative Services Leadership Team members.

Presentation Support

• Support RFQ/RFP responses for all bids, ensuring compliance with policy, procedure, zoning laws, and securing public approval.

• Prepare materials and presentations for the Facilities and Real Estate Committee and the Board of Trustees.

Administrative Support

• Provide contract review and revision in coordination with outside counsel.

• Track and manage project budgets; oversee these functions to completion ensuring compliance with all University processes.

Core Competencies

Analytical and Strategic Thinking

• Perform complex financial underwriting and structuring, including joint ventures, development, and debt instruments.

• Underwrite and close debt and equity transactions locally, regionally, and nationally.

• Advanced analytical skills in evaluating real estate transactions.

• Gather and analyze information to make well‑founded recommendations to Senior Administration.

Communication, Organizational, and Interpersonal Skills

• Use sound judgment and effective decision making.

• Convey complex financial information clearly and build strong…