Originator (West Region)
Locations: Los Angeles, CA
About the Employer
National Equity Fund, Inc. (NEF) is a leading non-profit syndicator of Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) with a mission to create and deliver innovative, collaborative financial solutions to expand the creation and preservation of affordable housing.
NEF is a multi-family, affordable real estate investment manager. Since 1987, NEF has invested nearly $30 billion, representing approximately 275,000 new or preserved affordable homes across the country. NEF is Chicago-based and has donated more than $280 million in grants to support its affiliate LISC’s nationwide community development work.
Role Summary
The Originator will originate low-income housing tax credit investments and represent NEF in the designated region.
This role manages production workload in the region and is responsible for structuring transactions consistent with investor expectations to ensure long-term project viability and alignment with NEF’s mission. The position requires the ability to work both independently and collaboratively across departments to structure and negotiate transactions.
What You’ll Do
- Secure Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) investments in the designated region at levels established by the Regional Managing Director and Chief of Production
- Work closely with investor relations and capital markets colleagues to identify and secure investor interest in LIHTC transactions
- Lead NEF marketing efforts in the designated region in collaboration with the Regional Managing Director and maintain relationships with non-profit and for-profit developers, funders, lenders, and state allocating agencies
- Structure LIHTC transactions according to NEF underwriting guidelines and pricing parameters, and work through credit issues with the Regional Managing Director
- Analyze project income structures, operating expenses, debt service requirements, market studies, and developer financial and development capacity
- Develop fluency in NEF’s investment proforma and underwriting model, including fund parameters and requirements
- Coordinate with Project Management, Asset Management, Asset Operations, Accounting, and other departments to manage and resolve project-level issues
- Manage and leverage affiliate stakeholder relationships, including participation in meetings and trainings
- Mentor and provide guidance to Originations Analysts to encourage professional development and growth
- Perform other duties and special projects as assigned by the Regional Managing Director
Required Qualifications
- Minimum of 5 years’ experience in underwriting and structuring LIHTC projects
- Strong knowledge of complex real estate underwriting, Section 42 requirements, various state tax credits, Historic Tax Credits, energy credits, project-based rental subsidies and vouchers, and relevant tax topics, including minimum gain and grant structures
- Strong analytical skills and proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, including Excel and Word
- Strong written and verbal communication and presentation skills
- Ability to work independently and effectively on multiple projects simultaneously
- Ability to explain complex financing structures to developers, stakeholders, funders, and related audiences
- Excellent customer service skills and professionalism with colleagues and external stakeholders
Preferred Qualifications
- Undergraduate or graduate degree in business, economics, urban planning, or finance preferred
Compensation & Benefits
We offer a competitive salary, along with a comprehensive benefits package.
