Executive Agency Counsel - job 3 of 4

As the Executive Agency Counsel at the New York City Department of Housing Preservation and Development (HPD), you'll support the agency's affordable housing development programs by providing legal services, managing legal documentation for construction and financing closings, and advising on complex real estate transactions. You'll also analyze local and federal regulations to ensure compliance and contribute to the successful implementation of affordable housing initiatives.

To apply for the Executive Agency Counsel position at HPD, candidates must be admitted to the New York State Bar and have at least four years of relevant legal experience, including eighteen months in a supervisory role. A strong knowledge of real estate laws relating to affordable housing, excellent writing skills, and the ability to review proposed legislation are also crucial.

HPD prefers candidates with experience in transactional real estate practice, knowledge of affordable housing laws and subsidy programs, and strong analytical and communication skills for their Executive Agency Counsel role. Additionally, the ability to draft legislation and effectively negotiate complex issues will be valuable.

The Executive Agency Counsel at HPD plays a significant role in shaping affordable housing policy and practices in New York City. By providing legal guidance, negotiating agreements, and ensuring compliance with laws, you will directly contribute to the execution of the City’s housing plan and help protect the interests of diverse neighborhoods.

Collaboration is key in the Executive Agency Counsel role at HPD. You will work closely with colleagues from various departments within the agency, as well as external partners, to ensure that real estate transactions adhere to legal standards and support the overall mission of promoting safe and affordable housing for New Yorkers.

In discussing your experience, focus on specific transactions you've handled, including any negotiations, legal documentation, and compliance issues you've successfully managed. Highlight your familiarity with affordable housing programs and how these experiences prepare you for the responsibilities at HPD.

Share your strategies for keeping updated, such as subscribing to legal journals, attending relevant workshops, or being part of professional organizations. Emphasize your commitment to continuous learning and how this would benefit your role at HPD.

Explain your drafting process, including initial research, outlining key points, and reviewing with peers. Stress the importance of clarity and compliance in your documents, demonstrating how this skill is crucial for the Executive Agency Counsel position.

Talk about a specific negotiation, detailing the context, the challenges faced, and how your approach led to a successful outcome. Reflect on the techniques you employed and what you learned that could apply in a similar situation at HPD.

Discuss your proactive approach to understanding legislative changes, including working with colleagues to reassess current procedures and ensure compliance. Highlight your analytical skills and ability to adapt quickly to new regulations.

Share a specific experience focusing on how you offered mentorship, delegated tasks effectively, and fostered a collaborative environment. Emphasize the importance of teamwork in successfully guiding junior attorneys in complex legal matters.

Outline your systematic approach, emphasizing critical reading, legal research tools, and collaborative discussions with peers. Stress the importance of thorough analysis to ensure compliance and effective implementation of affordable housing policies.

Discuss your time management strategies, including setting deadlines, assessing the urgency of tasks, and collaborating with team members. Highlight how prioritization ensures that all legal matters receive the attention they require for successful outcomes.

Share your techniques for effective communication, such as regular meetings, open feedback, and clarity in your correspondence. Emphasize the importance of building relationships for successful collaboration on affordable housing initiatives at HPD.

Express your passion for affordable housing and public service, highlighting how HPD’s mission aligns with your values. Discuss the unique opportunity to influence housing policies in NYC and the fulfillment you derive from making a meaningful impact.