Director, Community Management

CitySan MateoStateCaliforniaJob LocationSan Mateo Corp OfficePosition TypeRegular

The Director of Community Management is a key member of the leadership team, entrusted with overseeing the operations of a high-performing, large-scale portfolio of communities. This individual will be responsible for driving operational excellence, optimizing net operating income (NOI), enhancing resident satisfaction, and developing best-in-class talent. The role demands a strategic, forward-thinking leader who can execute the company’s investment and operational vision while fostering a culture of innovation and performance.

Reporting to senior leadership, the Director will collaborate cross-functionally with departments including Revenue Management, Finance, Development, Marketing, Human Resources, Legal, and Technology to ensure alignment with the broader strategic plan. This is a high-impact, visible role that demands exceptional business acumen, people leadership, and executional rigor.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

• Own full profit and loss (P&L) accountability for the assigned portfolio.
• Provide strategic and day-to-day leadership across Customer Relations, Maintenance, and Collections functions to ensure optimal operational performance and resident satisfaction.
• Oversee all aspects of staff management including recruitment, onboarding, training and development, performance management, and retention of team members.
• Lead, mentor, and empower a team of General Community and General Operations Managers responsible for multiple assets, ensuring seamless execution of strategic initiatives.
• Cascade corporate mission, vision, and strategic objectives across all levels of the portfolio to ensure alignment and performance at the asset level.
• Maximize portfolio NOI through disciplined financial oversight, operational efficiencies, and continuous performance improvement.
• Champion a resident-centric approach that delivers elevated service levels, fostering a competitive edge in the market.
• Develop and oversee the annual property operating plans and budgets; ensure robust financial forecasting and disciplined cost management.
• Provide high-impact coaching and career development pathways to operational leaders, promoting a culture of accountability, growth, and excellence.
• Establish and maintain enhanced service standards to deliver exceptional resident experiences; leverage technology, team engagement, and community outreach.
• Evaluate and improve organizational processes to drive consistency, scalability, and operational standardization.
• Enhance brand positioning and reputation, establishing the portfolio as the preferred choice in each market served.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED:

• Bachelor’s degree strongly preferred.  
• 8+ years of progressive leadership experience in operations or portfolio management, preferably within the multifamily asset classes.
• Demonstrated track record of P&L ownership and financial accountability.
• Proven success in leading and managing large, multi-layered, geographically dispersed teams.
• Exceptional business acumen and strong financial fluency.
• Adept at influencing and collaborating across a highly matrixed organization.

WHAT THE JOB REQUIRES:

• Operates in a fast-paced work setting. Requires the ability to multitask and adapt quickly to changing priorities. May involve tight deadlines and high-energy work situations.
• Involves frequent interaction with customers. Requires effective communication skills and a professional demeanor.
• Requires the ability to work Monday through Friday. Entails in-person office requirements located at Essex's corporate office in San Mateo.
• Work is primarily conducted in an office setting. Requires the ability to sit or stand for extended periods, with a regular need to walk properties. This may involve walking and the use of stairs for prolonged periods of time. Involves the use of standard office equipment such as computers, phones, and printers.
• Frequent travel required to assigned properties to conduct site visits, meet with team members, and assess operations.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING TO THE TABLE:

• Strategic leadership in managing a major functional area or department with a blend of direct and matrixed reports.
• Strong track record of talent management, including recruiting, developing, and retaining high-performing teams.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills; ability to convey complex information with clarity and confidence.
• High level of discretion and sound judgment in handling sensitive issues and high-stakes decisions.
• Advanced problem-solving, analytical, and quantitative capabilities; able to navigate ambiguity and deliver impactful solutions.
• Demonstrated ability to lead through change and drive results in alignment with corporate goals and values.

All full-time regular associates are offered competitive salaries, experience career growth, and are eligible for benefit packages that include medical, dental, vision, paid parental leave, 401k employer match, excellence rewards, wellness programs, and much more. With our Sunday property operations office closures, 10 paid holidays, and 15 PTO days, work/life balance is a priority! Additionally, most positions are eligible for a housing discount of 20%.

Essex provides great communities in which to live, work and invest. We are a purpose-driven company, and we pride ourselves on promoting an internal culture of growth and opportunity by engaging, enabling, and empowering our teams. Working at Essex is not a destination. It is a journey where you can confidently build your career.

The pay range for this position is $148,000.00 - $224,000.00 per year. New hires generally start between $148,000.00 - $185,000.00 per year. The final salary offer will be determined after reviewing relevant factors, including but not limited to skill sets; relevant experience; internal equity; and other business and organizational needs.

This role is also eligible to participate in Essex’s discretionary Annual Bonus program that is commensurate with the level of the position.