Job Description

Ballinger | Leafblad is honored to partner with Aeon in the search for its next President and Chief Executive Officer. Aeon is a mission-driven nonprofit developer, owner, and manager of affordable homes serving more than 7,000 residents across 59 communities in the Twin Cities. Known for combining real estate expertise with a deep commitment to people, real estate with a heart, Aeon has long been a bold leader in preserving and creating quality, affordable homes that strengthen lives and communities. The next CEO will guide Aeon through a pivotal period of stabilization and renewal, clarifying its identity, strengthening financial and operational foundations, building trust and culture, and positioning the organization for long-term sustainability and impact. Reporting to the Board of Directors and leading a team of more than 200 mission-driven staff, this leader will bring decisive, transparent leadership and a deep belief that home changes everything, ensuring Aeon continues to shape a future where everyone has a place to live, grow, and belong.

SUMMARY

Aeons next CEO will guide the organization through a period of stabilization and renewed focus, building on its proud legacy of innovation, partnership, and impact. This leader will strengthen Aeons financial and operational foundation, foster organizational alignment, and advance a culture rooted in collaboration, trust, and resident-centered excellence. Working closely with the board and a team of more than 200 mission-driven professionals, the CEO will bring clear-eyed business acumen, transparent and decisive leadership, and deep commitment to Aeons belief that home changes everything.

This is a rare opportunity to lead one of Minnesotas most visible and vital affordable housing organizations through transformation, anchoring stability today while shaping the future of affordable communities for generations to come.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Proven executive leadership experience guiding a complex, mission-driven organization through transformation, stabilization, or growth.
• Strong financial and operational acumen, including oversight of multifaceted budgets, assets, and real estate portfolios.
• Demonstrated success managing or partnering within affordable housing, real estate development, financing, or property management sectors, with understanding of related compliance and funding structures.
• Experience navigating complex capital, philanthropic, and government funding environments; ability to build trust with investors, lenders, and public-sector partners.
• Skilled in organizational assessment and turnaround, with capacity to make clear, pragmatic decisions grounded in data and mission.
• Deep commitment to resident-centered leadership and belief in the power of affordable homes to strengthen lives and communities.
• Record of rebuilding or enhancing organizational culture, fostering collaboration, transparency, and accountability.
• Demonstrated ability to partner effectively with nonprofit boards, strengthening governance and ensuring alignment between strategy and execution.
• Skilled communicator and relationship builder who can represent Aeon with credibility among staff, residents, donors, policymakers, and community partners.
• Commitment to equity, inclusion, and belonging as essential to organizational health and mission delivery.
• Bachelors degree required; advanced degree in business, public administration, urban planning, finance, or a related field preferred.

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

The salary for this position is $280,000 plus up to 20% discretionary bonus based on individual and organizational performance.

Aeon offers a comprehensive benefits package that supports the health, financial security, and well-being of its employees. The program includes multiple medical plan options through HealthPartners, dental and vision coverage, and employer-paid life, short-term, and long-term disability insurance. Employees also have access to on-demand primary care through Kavira, tax-advantaged savings options such as Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts, and a 403(b) retirement plan with employee contributions and a potential discretionary employer contribution. Generous paid time off and holidays.

VIEW THE FULL POSITION PROFILE AT

TO APPLY

All applicants must apply online here.

A resume and cover letter are required for consideration.

We strive for a transparent and supportive process, starting with an initial review of applications, followed by exploratory conversations with qualified candidates, in-depth interviews, and open communication throughout. There will be an immediate and ongoing review of candidates, so we encourage and appreciate early applications. All inquiries will remain confidential.

For more details or questions, inquiries may also be directed to Lars Leafblad at lars@ballingerleafblad.com.

Applications will be accepted until December 19, 2025 at 12:00 pm CST. Review of materials begins immediately. We encourage early application.

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