Leasing Operations Manager Jobs in Deerfield, IL

Fernwood Communities | Bronzeville, Chicago, Illinois
Salary: $125,000 annually

Fernwood Communities is seeking an experienced Senior Property Manager to oversee the daily operations of a multifamily portfolio in Chicago's historic Bronzeville neighborhood. This leadership role is responsible for ensuring operational excellence, developing high-performing teams, enhancing the resident experience, and maintaining the overall performance of the assigned communities.

The Senior Property Manager serves as a key operational leader, partnering with executive leadership and cross-functional departments to ensure properties operate efficiently while delivering exceptional service to residents.

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of an assigned multifamily portfolio.

• Provide leadership and support to Property Managers, Assistant Property Managers, Leasing Professionals, Resident Services teams, and Maintenance leadership.

• Ensure company policies, procedures, and service standards are consistently followed across all communities.

• Conduct routine property inspections and operational reviews to identify opportunities for improvement.

• Develop and implement operational strategies that improve efficiency and resident satisfaction.

• Drive occupancy, leasing, renewal, and resident retention initiatives.

• Monitor leasing performance and resident satisfaction metrics.

• Partner with onsite teams to resolve escalated resident concerns in a timely and professional manner.

• Promote a culture focused on exceptional customer service and resident engagement.

• Monitor property operating expenses, collections, delinquency, and overall financial performance.

• Review financial reports and operational metrics to identify trends and opportunities for improvement.

• Assist in developing annual operating budgets and forecasts.

• Ensure expense controls and purchasing procedures are followed.

• Partner with maintenance leadership to ensure communities remain safe, clean, and well maintained.

• Monitor work order completion, preventive maintenance programs, apartment turns, and vendor performance.

• Coordinate capital improvement projects and property enhancements as needed.

• Ensure all properties meet company quality standards and applicable regulatory requirements.

• Recruit, coach, mentor, and develop onsite leadership teams.

• Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching and feedback.

• Partner with Recruiting & Development on hiring, onboarding, and leadership development initiatives.

• Build a positive, accountable, and collaborative work environment.

• Ensure compliance with Fair Housing laws and all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.

• Maintain accurate operational, leasing, and compliance records.

• Support company risk management initiatives and operational best practices.

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Real Estate, Property Management, or a related field preferred.

• Five or more years of progressive multifamily property management experience.

• Minimum of two years leading multiple communities or large multifamily assets.

• Demonstrated experience supervising onsite management and maintenance teams.

• Strong understanding of leasing operations, resident relations, maintenance coordination, and property operations.

• Experience reviewing financial reports and managing operating expenses.

• Proficiency with Yardi or comparable property management software.

• Excellent leadership, organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Valid driver's license with the ability to travel between assigned communities.

• Certified Apartment Manager (CAM), Accredited Residential Manager (ARM), Certified Property Manager (CPM), or similar industry designation.

• Experience leading operational improvement initiatives.

• Experience with resident communication platforms such as EliseAI.

Salary: $125,000 annually

Eligible employees enjoy a competitive benefits package, including:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance

• 401(k) with company match

• Paid time off and company holidays

• Professional development and leadership training

• Employee assistance and wellness programs

At Fernwood Communities, we believe great communities begin with exceptional leadership. We are committed to developing talented professionals who are passionate about operational excellence, resident satisfaction, and building strong teams.

Fernwood Communities is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.