Columbia Housing Chief Executive Officer

Columbia Housing Chief Executive Officer

Columbia Housing (CH) is seeking a visionary and dynamic Chief Executive Officer to lead the organization with passion, strategic insight, and a commitment to excellence. This is a unique opportunity to drive meaningful change and play a pivotal role in shaping the future of affordable housing in Columbia, South Carolina.

The Opportunity

This role is responsible for leading the strategic and day-to-day operations of Columbia Housing, ensuring effective oversight of housing programs, real estate development, staff, budgets, and regulatory compliance at the federal, state, and local levels. Key responsibilities include supervising personnel, guiding employment-related decisions, and directing the development, execution, and evaluation of the agency’s five-year strategic plan. The position also entails managing grant applications, protecting organizational assets, negotiating contracts, and fostering strong relationships with government officials, residents, and the broader community. As the primary liaison between Columbia Housing staff and the Board of Commissioners (BOC), the individual will provide regular updates, recommend policy changes, and ensure organizational objectives remain aligned with regulatory requirements. In addition to leading Columbia Housing, the CEO also oversees housing operations for Cayce Housing through a contractual agreement with the City of Cayce.

About Columbia Housing

For over 90 years, Columbia Housing has been a vital resource for the community, providing safe and affordable housing to its most vulnerable residents through the federally funded Public Housing Program administered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). As the largest housing agency in South Carolina, Columbia Housing plays a critical role in supporting individuals and families with low to moderate incomes. The agency currently serves nearly 6,500 households and more than 16,000 individuals across the City of Columbia, Cayce, and Richland Counties.

Columbia Housing has embarked on an aggressive plan to reposition its real estate portfolio. CH’s repositioning strategy involves the conversion of over 1300 public housing units, new development of over 1500 units, and total affordable housing creation of over 2900 units by 2030. 

The Ideal Candidate 

We are seeking a dynamic, mission-driven leader with a deep commitment to affordable housing and community development. The ideal candidate brings a robust background in real estate development and redevelopment within the affordable housing space, along with a strong understanding of the federal, state, and local policies that shape public housing programs.

A thorough knowledge of HUD regulations and available public and private funding resources is essential. This leader must also be an exceptional communicator—skilled in building trust, engaging diverse stakeholders, and fostering partnerships with residents, community leaders, and representatives at all levels of government.

As CEO, the individual will be at the helm of a large public housing agency, responsible for shaping strategy, overseeing operations, and driving innovation. The individual will tackle complex administrative challenges, implement impactful policies, and lead a high-performing team. We are looking for someone with a proven track record in implementing plans, organizational development, and change management—someone who’s not just ready for the challenge, but inspired by it.

Required Skills & Abilities

• Thorough knowledge of the principles, methods, and practices of administration and fiscal and organizational management.
• Knowledge of affordable housing development and redevelopment
• Thorough knowledge of procurement regulations and OSHA requirements.
• Thorough knowledge of the purposes, policies, and regulations of Columbia Housing as established by the Board of Commissioners and as set forth by HUD regulations, and the state of South Carolina.
• Thorough knowledge of the federal laws, state laws and city ordinances governing programs operated by CH, including health and fire regulations, landlord/resident relationships, leasing of property and evictions.
• Considerable knowledge of laws and regulations governing bonded indebtedness, procurement of goods and services, and the preparation and execution of contracts and agreements.
• Considerable knowledge of the organization and programs of community agencies and groups that can assist CH in meeting the needs of its customers.
• Knowledge of the principles and procedures of building and grounds maintenance, modernization, contract administration, and construction management.
• Considerable knowledge of HUD’s PHAS and SEMAP programs.

Compensation & Benefits

This position offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience.

A comprehensive benefits package for you and your dependents includes medical, dental and vision insurance, life and long-term disability insurance plans, vacation, sick and personal leave, automobile reimbursement, and retirement benefits.

Education & Expertise 

Master’s Degree in Public Administration, Business Administration, or related field and a minimum of seven (7) years of experience, including a minimum of four (4) years of senior management experience at a PHA executive director or deputy director level; or

Bachelor’s Degree Public Administration, Business Administration, or related field and a minimum of ten (10) years of experience, including a minimum of six (6) years of senior management experience at a deputy director level directly related to housing management and maintenance or other senior PHA administrative duties.

PHM Certification from a bona fide Public Housing Manager certification program and is required within one year of hire or other allowable period of hire as authorized by the Board of Commissioners.

An equivalent combination of experience and education that provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform the essential functions of this position.

A thorough background and driver’s license check will be completed before hire.

View the brochure >

For Additional Questions Contact:

Jason Geno
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (202) 547-3304

Should you have any questions regarding your own interest, or referral of a colleague, please contact us.