LaTonya James
Chicago,IL
Summary
Driven and strategic Senior Policy and Process Specialist with a proven track record of driving organizational transformation and facilitating change management practices. Skilled in providing high-level support to senior leadership, designing and executing strategic initiatives, and fostering collaboration across departments. Passionate about streamlining processes and improving client experiences through continuous improvement efforts.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
10
10
Certification
Work History
Senior Policy and Process Specialist
Illinois Housing Development Authority
07.2023 - Current
- Drive strategic direction and execute transformation initiatives in Asset Management, collaborating with senior leadership.
- Provide high-level support on special initiatives, positively influencing stakeholders and driving change.
- Lead strategic planning, goal setting, and performance reporting efforts, consulting with internal and external stakeholders.
- Streamline core functions and enhance client experiences through continuous process improvement.
- Develop and implement tools to gather feedback and align with organizational goals.
- Analyze data, identify trends, and make recommendations for informed decision-making.
- Lead high-volume, complex initiatives, providing leadership and direction.
- Facilitate communication and collaboration across departments to ensure consistency and alignment.
- Conduct research on regulatory requirements and industry best practices, informing policy development.
- Develop policies, procedures, and training materials for clarity, consistency, and compliance.
- Ensure consistency between written policies, procedures, and training during implementation.
- Collaborate with team members to support departmental operations and maintain resource libraries.
- Handle other special projects and initiatives as assigned, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability.
Policy and Process Specialist
Illinois Housing Development Authority
09.2020 - 06.2023
- Drive strategic direction established by Managing and Deputy Directors, leading transformation initiatives and change management practices.
- Research regulatory requirements and industry best practices to develop policies and procedures.
- Develop training for internal and external audiences to ensure clear, consistent, and compliant processes.
- Coordinate with stakeholders to prioritize and schedule related work, ensuring alignment with organizational standards.
Senior Asset Manager
Illinois Housing Development Authority
01.2020 - 08.2020
- Conducted management and occupancy reviews to ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations.
- Monitored findings and stakeholder responses, ensuring timely resolution and reporting.
- Implemented proactive strategies to resolve operational compliance issues, collaborating with team members to provide comprehensive service.
Regional Manager
The Habitat Company
11.2017 - 01.2020
- Oversaw daily operations of nearly 2000 affordable housing units, achieving 95% occupancy goal for new construction mixed-use development.
- Managed P&L to decrease discrepancies and retain timely project completion while increasing overall NOI.
- Supervised staff to optimize performance, asset preservation, and productivity, building partnerships to strengthen collaborative efforts.
Senior Director of Property Management
Lutheran Social Services Of IL
08.2005 - 09.2017
- Provided direct support to the Executive Director, overseeing 21 owned and managed HUD affordable sites valued at over $18 million.
- Managed project resources, progress, completion timelines, and budgets, surpassing key operational targets and driving increased occupancy and revenue.
- Developed HUD regulatory compliance policies in collaboration with the Senior Leadership Team for the Housing Network.
- Engaged organization leadership as a housing training facilitator, fostering dynamic team building and delivering training to meet professional standards and requirements.
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Organizational Leadership
05.2026
Skills
- Strategic Planning
- Policy Development
- Leadership
- Project Management
- Stakeholder Engagement
- Process Improvement
- Data Analysis
- Compliance
- Training and Development
- Adaptability
Affiliations
- Association of Change Management Professionals
- National Council of State Housing Agencies
- Consortium for Housing and Asset Management
- The Chicago Rehab Network
- The Illinois Housing Council
Certification
- Community Development and Empowerment Series
- Accredited Residential Manager, IREM
- Certified Occupancy Specialist, NCHM
- Certified Manager of Housing, NCHM
- Certified Manager of Maintenance, NCHM
- Certified Senior Housing Specialist, NCHM
- Tax Credit Specialist, NCHM
- Management and Occupancy Review Specialist, NCHM
- Certified Financial Specialist, NCHM
- Certified Assisted Housing Specialist, Quadel Consulting
- State of IL Real Estate Broker-Inactive
Running Enthusiast
Dedicated running enthusiast since 2019, initially drawn to the sport at the encouragement of a friend. Embracing the challenge, I progressively built my endurance and skills, culminating in completing a half marathon. Currently preparing for a 51-mile relay and a full marathon, showcasing commitment, perseverance, and goal-oriented mindset. Engaging with the vibrant running community has enriched my life, fostering connections with diverse individuals and cultivating a sense of camaraderie.
Timeline
Senior Policy and Process Specialist - Illinois Housing Development Authority
07.2023 - Current
Policy and Process Specialist - Illinois Housing Development Authority
09.2020 - 06.2023
Senior Asset Manager - Illinois Housing Development Authority
01.2020 - 08.2020
Regional Manager - The Habitat Company
11.2017 - 01.2020
Senior Director of Property Management - Lutheran Social Services Of IL
08.2005 - 09.2017
Regent University - Bachelor of Arts, Organizational Leadership