P.A.T.C.H.E.S. Inc.: Land Bank Authority

Position Opening - Interim Director

Detroit Land Bank Authority

The City of Detroit, under the provisions of the State Act 258 of 2003, has established a Land Bank Authority for the purpose of assembling and clearing properties, returning vacant property to productive use, accelerating development activity, promoting economic growth, supporting the planning process and reducing neighborhood blight.

The Detroit Land Bank Authority (DLBA) is governed by a seven-member board appointed by the Mayor and City Council. A legal firm has been retained to draft the Articles of Incorporation, by-laws and other required documents. The board now seeks applicants for the position of Interim Director to assist in the start-up of the Authority. The board also intends to initiate the process for the hiring of a permanent Executive Director, to be concluded within the next 60-90 days.

Position Description

The Interim Executive Director will have primary responsibility for overseeing the day-to-day activities of the DLBA, including the following:

Assist the board in the development of a mission statement, goals and objectives, and adoption of by-laws.
Work with the board on establishing a principal office.
Establish bank accounts/banking arrangements.
Prepare a preliminary budget and cash flow projections.
Develop financial systems for budget monitoring and oversight.
Identify staffing requirements.
Assist the board in developing personnel policies and procedures.
Work with property owners in the public and private sectors to identify appropriate properties for transfer to the DLBA.
Interface with the State and County land bank authorities on the transfer of properties to the DLBA.
Work with the board on establishing priorities, policies and procedures for the acquisition, management and disposition of properties.
Create systems to organize and manage properties under its control.
Develop policies and procedures for contracting and procurement.
Interface with developers, non-profits, community development corporations, businesses and neighborhood residents on their plans and proposals, as directed by the board.
Prepare reports of program activities and outcomes.
Manage other operational aspects of the Authority.

Skill Requirements and Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in Business, Urban Planning, Community Development or related field.
At least 10 years experience in the areas of community development, real estate and finance.
Extensive land use planning experience, with direct experience with vacant property systems preferred.
Familiarity with the establishment and function of land banks.
Knowledge of national best practices for addressing vacant properties.
Demonstrated understanding of real estate transactions and other community development business and financial considerations.
Experience in working with community development groups, grassroots organizations and the nonprofit sector.
Experience in the areas of policy analysis and advocacy.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Strong communication skills.

This is a contractual position at an annual salary range of $60,000 to $90,000, depending on qualifications and experience. Interviews begin immediately. Interested persons should send a cover letter and resume to Warren Palmer, Interim Chair, Detroit Land Bank Authority, Planning and Development Department, 2300 Cadillac Tower Building, Detroit, MI 48226 or via email to WPalmer@detroitmi.gov. No phone calls please. Submissions due by close of business on Friday, September 4, 2009.

Detroit residency preferred.

The Detroit Land Bank Authority is an equal opportunity employer.