Director of Lending and Investments

About Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC)

The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) has been a pioneer in community development financing and support since its inception in 1979. Headquartered in New York City, LISC has invested approximately $29.7 billion across 38 markets in businesses, affordable housing, health, educational mobility, community and recreational facilities, public safety, employment, and various other projects aimed at revitalizing underinvested communities. LISC’s national network extends from coast to coast, including 2,400 rural counties across 49 states and Puerto Rico. The organization focuses on enhancing the quality of life across America by partnering with residents and stakeholders to create resilient and inclusive communities. LISC Los Angeles, one of LISC’s 37 local offices, has been functional for over three decades, investing nearly $1 billion in small businesses, housing, health, education, public safety, and employment initiatives. The Los Angeles office prides itself on promoting equity and economic inclusion across low-income communities of color in LA County. Visit the national website at www.lisc.org for more information.

About this Role

LISC Los Angeles is actively seeking a seasoned professional to serve as the Director of Lending and Investments. This pivotal role focuses on fortifying communities through proficient lending practices, technical assistance, project management, and more. In particular, the role supports affordable housing lending, small business lending, and strategic programs associated with the development and preservation of affordable housing within the LISC LA office. The Director of Lending and Investments manages the origination, underwriting, closings, and ongoing management of LISC’s Los Angeles housing and small business portfolios. This leadership role involves managing a team of underwriters, housing program officers, and business development specialists, building a robust loan pipeline for LISC LA’s initiatives. The Director also drives the execution of a local lending strategy aligned with LISC LA goals. They are responsible for refining the underwriting process, hiring and training staff, and overseeing the professional development of both the Housing and Small Business Lending and Programs teams. This includes fostering a cohesive and collaborative team culture and managing the team’s DEIJ (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Justice) goals. Additionally, the Director communicates with developers and entrepreneurs, maintains relationships within the housing lending sector, and serves as an expert in the field.

Responsibilities

• Implement a strategic approach to lending and real estate-based transactions, aligning with LISC LA’s goals.
• Lead best practices, programs, and policies for affordable housing and community development.
• Guide the team to research and develop regional and statewide policy and legislation.
• Underwrite various housing-related real estate transactions, conducting due diligence and financial analyses.
• Support the Housing Program Officer in executing trainings, workshops, and information sessions.
• Administer technical assistance to community development corporations and strategic partners.
• Identify and secure capital resources from internal and external sources, including philanthropic contributions and public subsidies.
• Lead other special projects as assigned.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree in business, finance, public administration, or a related field is a plus.
• At least five years of community development lending experience with proficiency in structuring complex real estate transactions.
• Strong management skills and at least two years of management experience.
• Proven ability to manage multiple, complex transactions and meet deadlines.
• Experience with local ordinances impacting housing development, LIHTC transactions, New Markets, and tax credits.
• Detailed oriented with strong project management skills.
• High proficiency in Microsoft Excel, MS Office, and financial statement analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong public speaking skills.
• Commitment to LISC’s mission in Los Angeles and California.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage.
• Long-term and Short-term Disability Insurance.
• 401(k) and 403(b) Retirement Savings Plans.
• Generous Holidays and flexible Vacation, PTO, and Sick Days.
• Tuition Assistance Programs.
• Referral Rewards Program.
• Professional Development Opportunities.