2026 Senior Manager Opportunity at The Kelsey: Lead Land Use and Building Code Reform

The Kelsey, a San Francisco-based national organization, is inviting applications for the role of Senior Manager, Land Use and Building Code. This full-time remote position focuses on creating inclusive, disability-forward housing solutions and advancing policy reforms that improve accessibility and equity in housing across the United States. The role begins June 1, 2026, with applications closing on April 10, 2026.

About The Kelsey

Operating nationally, The Kelsey is committed to a disability-forward housing future, centering on accessibility, inclusion, and equity. The organization develops and manages housing solutions while advocating for systemic change in policy and regulatory frameworks. With over 240 homes in its pipeline, The Kelsey focuses on policy, advocacy, and field-building initiatives to ensure that accessible and affordable housing becomes the standard.

The organization values:

• Disability-Forward Practices: Recognizing lived experiences of disabled people and allies, prioritizing access, interdependence, and diversity.
• Intentional Work: Thoughtful, informed, and strategic approaches to housing policy and reform.
• Joyful Engagement: Fostering community, purpose, and happiness even in challenging work environments.
• Radical Inclusion: Creating spaces of belonging for all identities and perspectives.
• Groundbreaking Innovation: Challenging the status quo to advance inclusive housing solutions.

Role Overview

The Senior Manager will lead land use and building code reform, with an emphasis on elevator reform, a key component of disability-forward housing policy. The position is remote-first, with occasional travel for national engagements. The work splits approximately 70% elevator reform and 30% broader housing policy initiatives.

Key responsibilities include:

• National Coalition Building
  • Develop and facilitate a coalition of disability organizations, older adult advocacy groups, and housing stakeholders.
  • Manage relationships and coordinate strategy across diverse stakeholders.
• Narrative and Policy Strategy
  • Translate complex building codes into human-centered narratives for advocacy and reform.
  • Lead storytelling initiatives that highlight the impact of housing accessibility on communities.
• Regulatory and Code Reform
  • Work with technical experts to modernize elevator requirements and support state-level code reform.
  • Align federal accessibility guidance with disability rights laws while removing unnecessary barriers.
  • Prepare for the 2027–2030 International Building Code (IBC) cycle to improve accessibility standards.
• Field Capacity Building
  • Develop advocacy toolkits, policy playbooks, and educational resources for regional advocates.
  • Support partners in implementing disability-forward housing reforms locally.
• Support Broader Policy Agenda
  • Provide assistance for additional housing policy reforms as needs arise.
  • Collaborate with The Kelsey’s technical and policy teams to advance long-term strategy.

Early Objectives

Within the first three months:

• Launch coalition infrastructure and strategy for elevator reform.
• Create messaging and partner toolkits.
• Engage technical and design experts for advocacy support.
• Support state-level elevator reform initiatives.

Within the first six months:

• Launch the national coalition and storytelling initiative.
• Build momentum in target markets for legislative reform.
• Develop strategic plans for the 2027–2030 IBC cycle.
• Support local partners with technical assistance and advocacy guidance.

Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will possess:

• Strategic Coalition-Building Skills: Ability to manage diverse groups of stakeholders effectively.
• Policy and Regulatory Expertise: Familiarity with building codes, housing policy, and disability rights law.
• Narrative Design Skills: Ability to communicate technical issues through compelling, human-centered stories.
• Innovative Thinking: Challenge existing norms to create scalable solutions.
• Collaborative Approach: Flexibility to support organizational priorities and cross-functional teams.

Candidates with lived experience of housing insecurity or who have been impacted by systemic inequities are strongly encouraged to apply.

Compensation and Benefits

The Kelsey offers:

• Salary Range: USD $85,000–$120,000 per year, commensurate with experience.
• Benefits: Comprehensive health coverage, four weeks of vacation, and family leave.

Application Process

Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States. The selection process includes:

1. Application Submission: Complete the online application form on The Kelsey website by April 10, 2026.
2. Rolling Review: Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, with interviews starting the week of April 20, 2026.
3. Final Assignment: Selected candidates will complete a two-hour assignment related to the role.
4. Final Offer: Expected in early May 2026.

Accommodations: Candidates with access needs or accommodations for the interview process can contact molly@thekelsey.org.

How to Apply

To apply for this impactful opportunity, visit The Kelsey Careers Page and complete the online application. This position offers a unique chance to shape the future of disability-forward housing policy while collaborating with national stakeholders on transformative reform initiatives.

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