Leonard Spicer

BIOGRAPHY

We are delighted to welcome Leonard J. Spicer as the new Executive Director of the Newark Housing Authority. Leonard brings extensive experience from both the public and private sectors, making him a valuable addition to our team.

Leonard's distinguished career includes his recent role as the Director of the Office of Public Housing at the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). In this capacity, he oversaw all 110 Public Housing Authorities and Agencies in New Jersey. Prior to this, he served as a Division Director in HUD’s New York City Office of Public Housing and as the Public Housing Recovery Administrator for the Irvington Housing Authority in Irvington, New Jersey. In Irvington, Leonard served as the Executive Director and Co-Chairman of the Board of Commissioners after the Housing Authority was placed into receivership in April 2022.

Additionally, Leonard has significant experience in Miami-Dade County, Florida, where he was the Assistant Division Director of Public Housing within the Public Housing and Community Development Department. Here, he managed a portfolio of over 11,000 Public Housing units and led a team of more than 200 personnel. His career spans over 15 years in the public and assisted housing industry at various levels.

Leonard is also a proud Veteran of the United States Army, having served 8 years, including a deployment with the 101st Airborne Division in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. He holds a bachelor's degree in Public Policy from DePaul University, a master's degree in Construction Management from Fordham University, and numerous industry certifications.

Outside of his professional commitments, Leonard is an active member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. He enjoys traveling, exploring culinary delights, and spending quality time with family and friends.