Influential Woman · Housing

Nicole Chatman

Director of Housing Choice Programs, Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority (IHCDA)

Indianapolis , IN 46250

1Award received

Certifications · Degrees · Memberships

Degree Master's Degree in Business Administration Degree Executive Leadership Training Degree Kelley School of Business Cert Master's Degree in Business Administration Cert Executive Management Certificate Cert Housing Choice Specialists Certification Cert Fair Housing and Reasonable Accommodation Certification Cert Executive Leadership Training Certificate from Kelley School of Business Cert Project Management Certification Member NAHRO (National Association of Housing and Redevelopment Officials) - Board Member

Her Story

About Nicole

I have been working in affordable housing for over 23 years, and I've been serving as Director of Housing Choice Programs for about three and a half years. In my role, I provide oversight for approximately 6,500 housing choice vouchers and 20 project-based voucher properties with 730 total units across the state of Indiana. I'm responsible for the Housing Choice Voucher Program in 84 of Indiana's 92 counties, which includes paying the HAP subsidy for tenants' rent, collaborating with HUD, and handling tenant complaints. I manage a staff of about 7 individuals and oversee 14 subcontractors. Our agency recently received a high performer ranking with HUD for our CMAP scores, which I consider one of my most notable professional achievements. I recently completed executive leadership training with the Kelley School of Business, furthering my commitment to professional development and excellence in housing administration.

Quick Facts

IndustryHousing
Based inIndianapolis , IN
Specialty Affordable Housing, Housing Choice Voucher Program, Project-Based Vouchers
- HUD Compliance
Volunteers with Gleaners Food Bank

Her Interview

Ten minutes with Nicole

01What do you attribute your success to?

I attribute my success to being personable and being able to meet people where they're at and build rapport with individuals that are under my leadership. I consider myself a transformative leader with the ability to pull out people's strengths and encourage individuals to be motivated to do their best. Building strong relationships and bringing out the best in my team has been key to my success in this field.

02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?

Keep persevering. While no single piece of advice stands out strongly at this time, the importance of perseverance has been a guiding principle throughout my career.

03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?

Some of the biggest challenges in my field are HUD funding, regulations, staffing, and training. These challenges also present opportunities, particularly when it comes to applying for funding and different programs that can help us better serve our communities and expand our impact.

04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?

I would say respect, honesty, and integrity are the most important values to me. These principles guide both my professional leadership and my personal interactions, and they form the foundation of how I approach my work and relationships.

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