President and CEO Full Time

Build Baton Rouge (BBR), also known as the East Baton Rouge Redevelopment Authority, is the official redevelopment agency for East Baton Rouge Parish. Established in 2007, BBR’s mission is to revitalize underinvested areas and promote equitable development throughout Baton Rouge.

With an annual operating budget of approximately $1 million, BBR has a proven track record of success with substantial opportunity for growth. To date, the organization has:

• Created 863 affordable housing units
• Awarded $5.6 million in below-market-rate financing
• Helped establish TIF Districts to generate funding for community improvements
• Established a Land Bank Inventory with an asset value exceeding $6.5M

Led significant projects including the Florida Corridor Plan, Plank Road Eco Park, Electric Depot, and managed Economic Development Districts

BBR plays a crucial role in shaping Baton Rouge’s future through innovative urban planning, community development, and strategic partnerships. The organization now seeks an experienced leader to guide its mission and operations, continuing its vital work in creating thriving, equitable communities across Baton Rouge.

Position Summary

The CEO of Build Baton Rouge is responsible for providing strategic leadership and direction to the organization to achieve its mission of equitable community development and revitalization. This role oversees all aspects of BBR’s operations, including planning, financing, development, and implementation of redevelopment projects, as well as managing staff, budgets, and stakeholder relationships. The CEO will also focus on creating sustainable revenue streams for the organization and ensuring community voice and participation guide BBR’s work.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement strategic plans and initiatives to advance BBR’s mission and goals, with a focus on equitable community development.
• Identify and pursue redevelopment opportunities that align with BBR’s objectives and priorities, emphasizing community needs and input.
• Serve as the principal liaison to the Board of Directors, ensuring effective and timely communication.
• Manage all aspects of development transactions including but not limited to, budgeting, applying for funding, due diligence, closing, construction, leasing, and management.
• Implement innovative approaches to blight remediation and neighborhood revitalization.
• Develop and manage BBR’s budget ensuring fiscal responsibility and accountability. Identify funding sources, including grants, public/private/ partnership opportunities and other new revenue streams.
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, community organizations, developers, residents, businesses, and educational institutions to drive advocacy, garner community support, influence policy, and secure diverse resources for organizational initiatives.
• Lead and manage a team of staff members, providing guidance, support and professional development opportunities.
• Represent BBR at public meetings, events, and conferences to promote its mission and objectives.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and policies governing redevelopment activities.
• Prioritize community voice and participation to inform and guide BBR’s work.
• Pursue and manage philanthropic relationships and federal grant opportunities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in urban planning, public administration, business administration, real estate development, or a related field.
• 10+ years of experience in community development, urban planning, real estate development, or a related field.
• 5+ years of executive-level management experience, ideally including experience reporting directly to a Board of Directors.
• Strong leadership skills and a proven track record of successful real estate project delivery.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Extensive knowledge of real estate development in both public and private sectors, with an emphasis on P3 transactions. Candidate must have experience with real development transactions including but not limited to: Private Activity Bonds, CDBG, HOME, LIHTCs (9% & 4%), NMTC, etc.
• In-depth knowledge of best practices as it relates to local, state, and federal laws, policies and regulations related to real-estate development and urban planning, particularly in Louisiana.
• Experience working with community organizations and private sector partners.
• Demonstrates commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of work.
• Proficiency in financial analysis, including the ability to develop pro formas.
• Experience obtaining and reporting on philanthropic and federal grants.
• Creative problem-solving skills and an entrepreneurial mindset.

Compensation

The salary range for this position is $200,000 – $250,000, contingent upon experience. Build Baton Rouge offers a comprehensive benefits package.

To Apply

Please apply via the link below. Answer all questions and submit a cover letter and resume. Your application will not be considered if it is not submitted through this link.

• CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Your application will not be considered if it is not submitted through the official form.

Build Baton Rouge is an equal-opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive team that represents the communities we serve. If reasonable accommodation is required to fully participate in the job application or interview process, to perform the essential functions of the position, and/or to receive all other benefits and privileges of employment, or if you have other questions, please contact:

Adrian Owen Jones
Partner, Success Labs
[email protected]

Please include the subject line: [YOUR NAME] Application for BBR CEO.

Deadline

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply promptly, as this is a competitive position, and we aim to complete the hiring process by December 2024.

This is a unique opportunity for a passionate professional to drive equitable neighborhood revitalization and investment in East Baton Rouge Parish in a meaningful way.

Tagged as: Government Agency, Non-Profit