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Chief Operating Officer

New York, New York, United States

Fairstead is a purpose-driven real estate firm dedicated to building sustainable communities across the country. Headquartered in New York, with offices in Colorado, Florida, and Washington DC, Fairstead owns a portfolio of more than 25,000 apartments across 28 states that includes 17,000 units under management. Fairstead’s commitment to communities is realized through a comprehensive platform that leverages in-house expertise in acquisitions, development, design and construction, asset management, and property management.

Fairstead’s primary mission is to provide high quality housing to all regardless of income, and to make our stakeholders feel “Right at Home.” We accomplish this through an empathetic and innovative approach, and by utilizing our interdisciplinary platform as an investor, developer, owner, and operator.

Fairstead’s Core Values: Innovation, Determination, Integrity, Humility, Empathy and Partnerships

Fairstead is seeking a visionary COO to lead operations at our fast-growing, mission-driven affordable housing firm. With integrated divisions in general contracting, property management, development (new construction and rehab), and innovative service lines—including healthcare, ISP, and security—our company challenges industry norms with a tech-forward, entrepreneurial approach. This role demands a strategic leader who thrives in constant evolution, embraces digital transformation, and empowers high-performing teams through scalable systems, AI, and operational excellence.

Key responsibilities span strategic planning, financial management, cross-functional execution, digital infrastructure, HR and talent development, regulatory compliance, and stakeholder engagement. Prior executive experience in private equity, startups, or operations-driven environments—especially with finance, IT, and growth strategy—is essential. This role is pivotal in positioning us as a best-in-class provider of affordable housing and community-centered innovation.

Responsibilities:

  • Drive company-wide strategy, operations, and growth in alignment with financial goals and mission.
  • Oversee budgets, financial reporting, and controls across all divisions.
  • Utilize AI to optimize IT strategy, reporting tools, infrastructure, and data security.
  • Champion efficiency, scalability, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements:

  • Executive leadership in multi-division organizations.
  • Deep expertise in accounting, finance, IT systems, AI and operations.
  • Expertise in financial planning, operations, and internal controls.
  • Background in managing and scaling dynamic, growth-oriented organizations.
  • Strong communicator and cross-functional leader.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance,  or related field required; MBA or advanced degree strongly preferred.

Diversity in backgrounds and experiences is key to Fairstead’s success. Being an equal opportunity employer is a central tenet of our philosophy that shapes who we are and the communities we serve. Our goal is to ensure competitive total compensation that is commensurate with experience, location, and other market benchmarks. 

 

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