Jennifer Sanz
Co-Founder and CEO, NEXT Development Group
Professional Overview
Jennifer Sanz is a seasoned real estate and policy professional with over 20 years of experience in the affordable housing and community development sectors. As the Co-Founder and CEO of NEXT Development Group, she leverages her deep industry expertise to lead innovative projects that drive positive social impact.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the Co-Founder and CEO of NEXT Development Group, Jennifer oversees all aspects of the company's operations, including project management, investor relations, and strategic planning. Under her leadership, NEXT has quickly established itself as a leader in the development of mixed-income, sustainable communities that prioritize affordable housing and community-centric design.
Career Progression
Prior to co-founding NEXT, Jennifer served as the VP of Development Programs at Pinnacle, where she managed a diverse portfolio of affordable and mixed-income housing projects totaling over $500 million in value. She also held the role of National Policy Director at National CORE, where she advocated for legislative initiatives that expanded access to low-income housing tax credits and other affordable housing incentives.
Early in her career, Jennifer gained valuable experience as a Business Development Associate at Carlisle Development Group and as a Low-Income Housing Tax Credits Administrator at the Florida Housing Finance Corporation. She also served as a Legislative Assistant and Committee Analyst, providing her with a deep understanding of the policy and regulatory landscape.
Academic Background
Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from the University of Florida, where she graduated with honors and was recognized for her academic excellence.
Areas of Expertise
- Affordable housing development and financing
- Public-private partnerships and community engagement
- Policy advocacy and legislative affairs
- Sustainable design and energy-efficient construction
- Team building and organizational leadership
Professional Impact
Under Jennifer's leadership, NEXT Development Group has successfully completed several high-impact affordable housing projects, including the award-winning Riverview Lofts, which integrated sustainable design elements and created new opportunities for low-to-moderate income families. Jennifer's industry expertise and commitment to social responsibility have positioned NEXT as a trusted partner for municipalities, non-profit organizations, and private investors seeking to drive positive change in their communities.
Conclusion
With her proven track record of success, Jennifer Sanz is poised to continue leading NEXT Development Group's growth and expanding its portfolio of transformative, community-focused projects. Her extensive experience, industry-leading expertise, and passion for creating equitable and sustainable communities make her a valuable asset to the affordable housing and community development sectors.
